🛒 Ingredients
For the Crust Base:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (or a pre-baked pastry crust broken into a 9×13 dish)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For the Fresh Strawberry Glaze:
- 2 lbs fresh strawberries, cleaned, hulled, and chopped
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 small box (3 oz) Strawberry Jell-O gelatin powder
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Set the Crust Base
In a medium bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until it resembles wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a rectangular baking dish to form an even layer. Freeze for 10 minutes to set.
Step 2: Whip the Cream Layer
In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar until completely smooth. Fold in the thawed whipped topping with a spatula until light and fluffy. Spread this white cream layer evenly over the chilled crust.
Step 3: Cook the Strawberry Glaze
In a small saucepan, whisk together the granulated sugar, water, and cornstarch until smooth. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Let it boil for 1 to 2 minutes until thick and clear. Remove from heat, immediately stir in the Strawberry Jell-O powder until fully dissolved, and let the glaze cool to room temperature.
Step 4: Combine and Layer
Gently fold your fresh, chopped strawberries directly into the cooled gelatin glaze until every piece is richly coated.
Step 5: Assemble and Chill
Pour the glistening strawberry mixture evenly over the top of the cream layer, exactly like the heavy, vibrant fruit layer shown in image_f945a9.jpg. Place the dish in the refrigerator to chill for at least 3 to 4 hours until the glaze sets completely. Slice into squares and serve chilled!