In another bowl, mix the crushed shortbread cookies with the melted butter. This mixture will form the crust at the bottom of our dessert. Spread the cookie mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Press down firmly to create a sturdy base. Next, pour half of the creamy filling over the crust and spread it gently with a rubber spatula. Then, layer half of the sliced strawberries on top of the filling, making sure to cover it evenly.
Now, repeat the process! Pour the remaining filling over the strawberries, smoothing it out as you go, and finally finish with the rest of those lovely strawberry slices on top. It’s so colorful and inviting at this stage, just waiting to be enjoyed! Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least four hours, or ideally overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully, and the dessert to set up nicely.
Pro Tips for Best Results
When I first made this dessert, I thought it would be easy to skip the refrigeration step. Trust me, letting it chill is crucial for both flavor and texture. If you can resist the temptation to dig in immediately, the wait is absolutely worth it! I also recommend using fresh strawberries whenever possible. Their natural sweetness elevates this dessert, and the texture is a dream compared to frozen ones.
If you’re looking for a richer flavor, try adding a splash of almond extract to the cream cheese mixture. I tested this three ways, and I fell in love with how it complements the strawberries so beautifully! Lastly, don’t panic if your whipped cream doesn’t hold its peaks right away. Just keep whipping; it’ll come together. I’ve had my fair share of “oops” moments, and now I can assure you it’s part of the fun!
Also, if time is of the essence, this dessert can be made ahead of time. Just make sure to cover it well to maintain freshness. I often whip it up the night before a gathering so I can enjoy the day without stressing about dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I made early on was not pressing the cookie crust down firmly enough. This led to a rather crumbly base, which is not ideal when you want to scoop up a piece of dessert. Give it a good press down with a flat bottom of a cup or spatula to ensure it holds together.(See the next page below to continue…)