This Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum is like sunshine on a plate! It mixes delicious strawberries with creamy layers that make each bite simply delightful.
I can’t resist grabbing a spoon for this treat when it’s in the fridge. It’s perfect for hot days or whenever I need a sweet pick-me-up! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese gives the filling a rich texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using low-fat cream cheese. Neufchâtel is a great substitute too, as it has a similar taste but less fat.
Whipped Topping: I recommend using Cool Whip for convenience, but if you prefer homemade, you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar. If you need a non-dairy version, look for coconut whipped cream in stores.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are essential for flavor and decoration. If they are out of season, swap them with frozen strawberries (thawed and drained) or even other fruits like raspberries or blueberries.
Graham Cracker Crumbs: This is the base of the dessert, but if you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free graham crackers. I love the added flavor of cinnamon in the crust, so you could throw in a pinch!
Strawberry Gelatin: If you want to avoid artificial ingredients, look for a natural pectin substitute. You can also make your own by simmering fresh fruit with sugar.
How Do I Make the Perfect Graham Cracker Crust?
Creating a crisp and delicious graham cracker crust is simple but crucial for this dessert. Following a few key steps can make all the difference.
- Start by evenly mixing the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter. This helps bind the crumbs.
- Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of the baking dish. I like to use the bottom of a measuring cup to get an even layer.
- Baking the crust until it’s lightly golden gives it a nice crunch and prevents it from being soggy later.
- Don’t forget to let it cool completely before adding the cream cheese mixture. This keeps layers from mixing!
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
For the Strawberry Layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 package (3 oz) strawberry gelatin (Jell-O)
- 2 cups boiling water
For Garnish:
- Extra strawberries for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful treat will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you’ll need to chill it for at least 4 hours to let the gelatin set. So, in total, you should plan around 4 hours and 15 minutes of time, mostly for chilling. Perfect for a refreshing dessert!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Mix them together until the crumbs are well coated and you have a nice mixture. Then, press this crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This will form your crust. Now, bake it in the preheated oven for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until you see it turning lightly golden. When done, take it out and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Cheese Layer:
While your crust is cooling, grab another mixing bowl and beat the softened cream cheese until it’s nice and smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar while mixing until everything is combined and smooth. Next, gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until it’s fully incorporated into the mixture. Once that’s done, spread this creamy mixture evenly over your cooled graham cracker crust. It’s going to be delicious!
3. Prepare the Strawberry Layer:
Now, let’s make the fruity layer! In a separate bowl, dissolve the strawberry gelatin in the 2 cups of boiling water. Stir until the gelatin is fully dissolved. Allow it to cool down a bit so it’s not super hot. Once it’s slightly cooler, add in the sliced strawberries and mix well. Finally, pour the strawberry gelatin mixture over the cream cheese layer, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or until the gelatin is set.
4. Garnish and Serve:
After the waiting period, take out your Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum from the fridge. Before serving, garnish with extra sliced strawberries on top for that fresh look. Slice it up and enjoy your delightful dessert with family and friends!
Can I Use Sugar-Free Gelatin for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular strawberry gelatin with sugar-free gelatin without any issues. The taste will still be delicious, and it might be a healthier alternative if you’re watching your sugar intake. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for dissolving it with boiling water.
What Can I Use Instead of Whipped Topping?
If you prefer not to use whipped topping, you can make your own whipped cream! Simply whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar until soft peaks form. This will work just as well and give a lovely fresh taste to your Yum Yum!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the top to prevent the gelatin from drying out. When ready to enjoy, just scoop and serve!
