Strawberry Lush is a delightful dessert that features layers of creamy goodness, fluffy whipped topping, and fresh strawberries. It’s like a party in your mouth, fresh and sweet!
I love how easy it is to make this treat. Just combine the layers, chill it for a bit, and voilà! You have a stunning dessert that everyone will enjoy—perfect for any occasion!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These form the base of your dessert. If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafer cookies for a slightly different flavor.
Cream Cheese: Make sure it’s softened to prevent lumps. If you need a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt or ricotta, but it will change the texture slightly.
Strawberry Puree: Fresh strawberries are best for the puree, but frozen strawberries work well too. Just thaw and blend them to create the puree. You might want to add a bit of sugar if using frozen strawberries.
Powdered Sugar: If you’re out of powdered sugar, you can make your own by blending granulated sugar until fine. However, remember it won’t dissolve as quickly in the cream cheese mixture if it’s not fully powdered.
How Do I Get the Cream Cheese Mixture Just Right?
Blending the cream cheese and powdered sugar perfectly is crucial for a smooth filling. Follow these steps for the best results:
- Start with room-temperature cream cheese. This helps it mix better and avoids lumps.
- Blend the cream cheese until smooth before adding the powdered sugar to ensure a lump-free mixture.
- Mix until fully incorporated, but don’t overmix once the whipped topping is added, as you want a light and fluffy texture.
With these tips, your Strawberry Lush will be creamy and delightful! Enjoy making it!
How to Make Strawberry Lush
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup whipped topping, thawed
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 cup strawberry puree (made from fresh strawberries)
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin mix
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
For the Topping:
- Additional whipped topping for garnish
- Crushed graham crackers for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Strawberry Lush will take about 20 minutes of active preparation time and requires at least 4 hours to chill and set in the refrigerator. Get ready for a fresh and delicious dessert that’s well worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers, melted butter, and granulated sugar. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form a crust. Bake it in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Once done, take it out and let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer:
While the crust is cooling, grab another bowl. Blend the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. Then, gently fold in 1 cup of whipped topping until everything is nicely combined. Spread this creamy mixture evenly over your cooled crust in the baking dish. It’s going to taste amazing!
3. Create the Strawberry Layer:
In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin mix in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir it well until it’s fully dissolved. Allow it to cool slightly before adding in your fresh strawberry puree and diced strawberries. When it’s cool enough, pour this fruity mixture over the cream cheese layer in the baking dish.
4. Chill and Garnish:
Now, it’s time to refrigerate! Let the dish chill for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is set firm. Once it’s ready, spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the top. For a beautiful finish, garnish with additional diced strawberries and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, slice the chilled Strawberry Lush into squares and serve cold. Enjoy every delicious bite of this refreshing dessert!
Can I Use Different Fruits in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While strawberries are the star of this recipe, you can substitute them with other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or even peaches. Just be sure to adjust the puree and gelatin mix accordingly to match the fruit you choose!
Is It Possible to Prepare This Dessert in Advance?
Yes, Strawberry Lush can be made a day ahead! Simply prepare the dessert, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. It actually tastes even better after a day in the fridge, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Strawberry Lush in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to stack layers, place parchment paper between them to prevent sticking. Just give it a little stir before serving again to refresh the layers!
What If I Don’t Have Graham Crackers?
No worries! You can use crushed vanilla wafers, digestive biscuits, or even Oreo cookies for a chocolatey twist. Just mix them with the melted butter and sugar as directed, and you’ll still have a delightful crust!
