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Easy No-Bake Firecracker Icebox Cake

firecracker icebox cake - featured image
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A creamy, no-bake dessert with layers of graham crackers, cream cheese filling, and fresh strawberries and blueberries. Perfect for patriotic holidays and summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 16 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • 2 cups Cool Whip, thawed
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1/4 cup strawberry jam
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1 box (14.4 oz) graham crackers (about 24 full sheets)
  • 1/2 cup white chocolate chips, melted (optional)
  • Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the berry sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the strawberry jam and 1 tablespoon of water. Stir until melted and smooth, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Alternatively, microwave in 15-second bursts.
  2. Prepare the cream cheese filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Scrape down the sides. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Beat until combined, about 1 minute.
  3. Fold in the whipped topping: Gently fold the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until no white streaks remain. Do not overmix.
  4. Layer the bottom crust: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish, breaking crackers to fit snugly without large gaps.
  5. Spread the first filling layer: Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
  6. Add the berry layer: Arrange half of the sliced strawberries and half of the blueberries over the cream cheese layer. Drizzle half of the melted jam sauce over the berries. Press berries gently into the filling.
  7. Repeat the layers: Place another layer of graham crackers on top of the berries. Spread the remaining cream cheese mixture over the crackers. Top with remaining strawberries, blueberries, and jam sauce. Reserve a few berries for garnish if desired.
  8. Top with final cracker layer: Place a final layer of graham crackers on top. Press down gently to compact everything.
  9. Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but overnight (12-24 hours) is best.
  10. Garnish and serve: Before serving, drizzle melted white chocolate over the top if desired. Garnish with reserved berries and fresh mint leaves. Slice into squares and serve cold.

Notes

For best results, chill overnight (12-24 hours) to allow graham crackers to soften into a cake-like texture. Use a sharp knife wiped clean between cuts for neat slices. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, icebox cake, firecracker, Fourth of July, patriotic, summer dessert, graham cracker, cream cheese, strawberry, blueberry

Find it online: https://eliplate.com/easy-no-bake-firecracker-icebox-cake-recipe/