Here is a delightful and creamy dessert that combines the classic flavors of cheesecake with a fresh strawberry topping. The Strawberry Cheesecake Lush is the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a smooth and decadent experience that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Topping:
- 1 cup whipped cream, for garnish
- Additional fresh strawberries, for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs and granulated sugar.
- Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is well combined and crumbly.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish, creating an even layer.
- Bake for about 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Let it cool completely.
Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until combined.
- Spread this creamy mixture over the cooled graham cracker crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.
Prepare the Strawberry Layer:
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir to combine and let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to release the strawberry juices.
- Spoon the strawberry mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it evenly.
Add the Topping:
- Spread the whipped cream over the strawberry layer as a final topping.
- Garnish with additional fresh strawberries for a beautiful presentation.
Serve:
- Refrigerate the dessert for at least 2-4 hours to allow it to set.
- Slice into squares and enjoy this decadent, creamy Strawberry Cheesecake Lush!
Enjoy:
This dessert is perfect for summer gatherings, holiday celebrations, or any time you want to enjoy a light, refreshing treat. The layers of creamy cheesecake, fresh strawberries, and a buttery graham cracker crust make it a crowd-pleaser!