Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Filling

  • 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1 package instant cheesecake pudding mix
  • 1 1/2 cups cold milk

For the Strawberry Layer

  • 3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crumble Layer

  • 2 cups vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies, crushed
  • 4 tablespoons melted butter

For Topping

  • Extra whipped cream
  • Fresh strawberry halves
  • Crushed cookies
  • White chocolate shavings (optional)
  • Powdered sugar for dusting

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Chill Time: 3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 25 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Wash and dry the strawberries thoroughly. Slice them into halves or small pieces.

Place the strawberries in a bowl and add:

  • Sugar
  • Lemon juice

Mix gently and let them sit for 15 minutes. This helps release their natural juices and creates a delicious strawberry syrup.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Crumble

Crush the vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies into small crumbs using a food processor or rolling pin.

Pour in the melted butter and mix until the crumbs resemble wet sand.

Set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Cheesecake Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Add:

  • Powdered sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Mix until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together:

  • Cheesecake pudding mix
  • Cold milk

Let it thicken for 2 minutes, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture.

Step 4: Whip the Cream

In another chilled bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.

Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cheesecake mixture. Do not overmix. The filling should stay light and fluffy.

Assembling the Dessert

Step 5: First Layer

Spread a layer of cookie crumble at the bottom of your serving dish or dessert cups.

Step 6: Add Cheesecake Filling

Spoon a generous layer of cheesecake filling over the crumble layer.

Smooth it gently with a spoon or spatula.

Step 7: Add Strawberries

Add a layer of sweet strawberries along with a little strawberry syrup.

Step 8: Repeat the Layers

Repeat the layers:

  • Cookie crumble
  • Cheesecake filling
  • Strawberries

Continue until the dish is full.

Step 9: Decorate the Top

Pipe or spoon whipped cream around the edges.

Top with:

  • Fresh strawberry halves
  • Extra cookie crumble
  • White chocolate shavings
  • Light powdered sugar dusting

This gives the dessert a bakery-style appearance.

Chilling Instructions

Cover the dessert and refrigerate for at least 3 hours before serving.

For best flavor and texture, chill overnight.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dessert:

  • Cold straight from the refrigerator
  • With coffee or tea
  • At birthdays and family dinners
  • During summer parties and holidays

Tips for the Best Strawberry Cheesecake Dessert

  • Use full-fat cream cheese for a richer texture.
  • Chill the mixing bowl before whipping cream for better results.
  • Fresh strawberries taste best, but frozen strawberries can also work.
  • Do not skip the chilling time because it helps the layers set properly.
  • Add chopped nuts for extra crunch if desired.

Storage Instructions

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Do not leave the dessert at room temperature for long periods because of the dairy ingredients.

Freezing is possible, but fresh strawberries may become softer after thawing.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

Sugar: 24g

Calories: 420

Carbohydrates: 35g

Protein: 5g

Fat: 29g