Description
A delicious no-bake frozen dessert that combines creamy cheesecake with cookies and berries for a refreshing summer treat that requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
Scale
- 16 oz cream cheese, softened (full-fat produces the creamiest texture, but reduced-fat can work)
- 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted to remove lumps
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (pure, not imitation, for optimal flavor)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 24–30 graham crackers or chocolate cookies (enough for 3–4 layers in your pan)
- 2 cups fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or a mixed berry blend)
- ¼ cup berry preserves or jam
- Optional: 2 tablespoons lemon zest for brightness
- Optional garnishes: additional fresh berries, mint leaves, chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang on all sides to later lift the cake out.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form (3-4 minutes with an electric mixer).
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a rubber spatula, using an under-and-over motion to maintain air in the whipped cream.
- In a small bowl, warm the berry preserves for 15-20 seconds in the microwave. Stir in the fresh berries to coat them lightly.
- Spread a thin layer of the cheesecake mixture on the bottom of the prepared pan. Arrange a layer of cookies to cover completely, breaking some if needed to fit.
- Continue layering with cheesecake mixture, berries, and cookies. Aim for 3-4 complete sets of layers, ending with the cheesecake mixture on top.
- Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight.
Notes
- For dairy-free options, substitute plant-based cream cheese and coconut cream (chilled overnight).
- Use gluten-free cookies or graham crackers if you have gluten concerns.
- Pre-slice and individually wrap portions for convenient single servings.
- Allow 10-15 minutes of thawing time before serving for ideal texture.
- This dessert can be made up to 1 week ahead for parties.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 4g
Keywords: frozen cheesecake, icebox cake, no-bake dessert, cookie cake, summer dessert, easy dessert