Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake – The Showstopper That Tastes Like Summer

Some desserts don’t just sit on the table — they steal the whole moment. Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake is that kind of dessert. It’s cool, creamy, layered with sweet strawberries, and the kind of slice that makes people stop talking for a second after the first bite.

This feels like the desserts that showed up at family celebrations: birthdays, Sunday dinners, spring holidays, or anytime someone wanted to bring “the good dessert.” It’s rich without being too heavy, bright from the berries, and soft like a cloud thanks to that creamy filling.

If you’re looking for a cheesecake that looks impressive but still feels comforting and familiar, this is the one.

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Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 2 cups graham cracker crumbs

• ½ cup melted butter

• 2 tbsp sugar (optional)

For the Creamy Filling

• 24 oz cream cheese, softened (3 blocks)

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1½ cups heavy whipping cream (or whipped topping)

For the Strawberry Layers

• 3–4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

• ½ cup strawberry jam or preserves (warmed slightly)
  (or use strawberry pie filling for a shortcut)

For the Topping

• Whipped cream (extra)

• Whole strawberries or sliced strawberries

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Instructions

1) Make the Crust

1. Mix graham crumbs with melted butter (and sugar if using).

2. Press firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.

3. Chill for 20–30 minutes to set.

2) Whip the Cream

1. In a cold bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.

2. Set aside.

3) Make the Filling

1. Beat softened cream cheese until smooth.

2. Add sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla. Mix until creamy.

3. Gently fold in the whipped cream to keep the filling light.

4) Assemble the Layers

1. Spread a layer of cheesecake filling over the crust.

2. Add a layer of sliced strawberries.

3. Drizzle or spread a thin layer of warmed jam/preserves.

4. Repeat layers until the pan is filled, finishing with cheesecake filling on top.

5) Chill

Refrigerate at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until fully set.

6) Decorate and Serve

Top with whipped cream and strawberries. Slice and serve chilled.

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Why This Cheesecake Works

• Whipped cream makes it airy and “dreamy”

• Strawberries add freshness and color

• Jam ties the fruit layers together like a soft glaze

• No-bake style means no cracking, no stress

It’s a dessert that looks like effort — but feels easy.

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Tips for the Best Results

• Use fully softened cream cheese to avoid lumps

• Chill overnight for the cleanest slices

• Warm jam slightly so it spreads easily

• Pat strawberries dry so the layers don’t get watery

• Use a hot knife (wipe between cuts) for bakery-style slices

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve extra cold for firm layers

• Add a drizzle of white chocolate on top

• Swap strawberries for raspberries or mixed berries

• Perfect for spring, summer, and holidays

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FAQ – Strawberries and Cream Dream Layer Cheesecake

Is this baked or no-bake?

This version is no-bake, set by chilling. It’s easier and great for warm weather.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Fresh is best. Frozen releases too much liquid and can make the layers runny.

How long does it last?

Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.