Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum is a delightful treat that combines juicy strawberries with a creamy filling, all tucked into a fluffy cloud of whipped topping. It’s perfect for warm days or as a sweet surprise!
Honestly, who can resist the charm of fresh strawberries? I could eat this dessert every day! Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you might find yourself making it for any occasion—just because! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Crackers: These give your dessert a crunchy base. If you don’t have graham crackers, you can use digestive biscuits or even vanilla wafer cookies for a different flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is standard for this recipe, as it allows you to control the sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
Cream Cheese: It’s essential for the creamy texture. If you’re lactose intolerant or want a lighter option, consider using a vegan cream cheese or Greek yogurt, though the flavor may vary slightly.
Whipped Topping: The fluffy element. If you prefer homemade, whip some heavy cream with a bit of sugar until soft peaks form. For a non-dairy option, there are whipped toppings made from coconut cream.
Strawberry Pie Filling: While convenient, you could make your own by cooking down fresh strawberries with sugar and cornstarch. If you have other fruits, such as raspberries, you could use those instead!
How Can I Get the Best Texture for My Cream Cheese Mixture?
The key to a smooth cream cheese mixture is to ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps avoid lumps. Here’s how to do it:
- Let the cream cheese sit out for about 30 minutes before starting your prep.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer for the best results. Start on low and gradually increase to medium speed.
- Scrape down the sides of your bowl as needed to get everything mixed well.
Remember, it’s important to fold in the whipped topping gently to keep the mixture airy and fluffy. This will result in a light, creamy dessert!
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 1 cup strawberry pie filling
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
- Additional strawberries for garnish
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup crushed graham crackers for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 10 minutes for baking. Don’t forget to set aside at least 4 hours for chilling in the fridge. So, you’ll be enjoying your Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum in just a little over 4 hours!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix the crushed graham crackers with the melted butter until the crumbs are well coated. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish to create a nice, even crust. Once done, pop it in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes. After baking, take it out and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
In a mixing bowl, whip the softened cream cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the powdered sugar while mixing well. Once it’s fully combined, gently fold in the whipped topping until it becomes light and fluffy. You’ll now have a delicious cream cheese layer ready to go!
3. Assemble the Layers:
Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over your cooled graham cracker crust. Next, pour the strawberry pie filling over this layer and spread it out evenly. Then, add the remaining cream cheese mixture on top, smoothing it out nicely. Finally, finish with a layer of sliced fresh strawberries and sprinkle the extra crushed graham cracker crumbs on top for a nice crunch.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover your dish and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours (or longer if you can wait!). Once set, serve your Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum chilled and, if you want, add even more fresh strawberries for garnish. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Crust?
Absolutely! If you don’t have graham crackers, feel free to use crushed Oreos, vanilla wafers, or even a cookie crust of your choice. Just make sure to mix it with the melted butter to hold it together!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the layers may settle a bit.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Sure thing! Simply substitute the graham crackers with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or your favorite gluten-free cookies. Just ensure that any other ingredients, like powdered sugar and whipped topping, are also gluten-free.
What Other Fruits Can I Use?
If strawberries aren’t your thing, you can swap them out for blueberries, raspberries, or even mix in some bananas for a fruity twist! Just adjust the amount according to your preference and taste.
