Frozen Strawberry Squares are a delightful and refreshing dessert, perfect for warm weather or as a sweet treat any time of the year. This dessert combines the natural sweetness of strawberries with a creamy base, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, a family gathering, or simply craving something sweet and cool, Frozen Strawberry Squares are sure to be a hit. Follow this detailed recipe to create this delicious dessert at home.
Ingredients for Frozen Strawberry Squares
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup melted butter
How to Make Frozen Strawberry Squares
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Mixture
- In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and 1/2 cup of granulated sugar.
- Mix well and let the strawberries sit for about 30 minutes to release their juices.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar and continue to beat until well combined.
- Add the vanilla extract and mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Dessert
- In a medium bowl, combine the crushed graham crackers and melted butter.
- Press the graham cracker mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to form the crust.
- Spread half of the creamy base over the graham cracker crust.
- Layer the strawberry mixture evenly over the creamy base.
- Spread the remaining creamy base over the strawberries, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
Step 4: Serve the Frozen Strawberry Squares
- Once the dessert is fully frozen, remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing taste of Frozen Strawberry Squares.
About the Main Ingredients
Strawberries
Strawberries are the star ingredient in this recipe, providing natural sweetness and a burst of fruity flavor. They are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy and delicious choice for desserts. When selecting strawberries, look for bright red, firm berries with a sweet fragrance.
Cream Cheese
Cream cheese adds a rich and creamy texture to the dessert, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries. It is a versatile ingredient commonly used in both sweet and savory dishes. For the best results, use full-fat cream cheese and ensure it is softened before mixing.
Heavy Whipping Cream
Heavy whipping cream is essential for creating the light and airy texture of the creamy base. When whipped, it adds volume and smoothness to the dessert. Make sure to use cold heavy whipping cream and beat it until stiff peaks form for the perfect consistency.
Graham Crackers
Graham crackers provide a crunchy and slightly sweet base for the dessert. They complement the creamy and fruity layers, adding a pleasant contrast in texture. Crushed graham crackers mixed with melted butter create a sturdy crust that holds the dessert together.
Frozen Strawberry Squares are a delightful treat that combines the best of fresh strawberries and creamy layers. With this recipe, you can easily create a delicious dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this refreshing and sweet treat any time you crave something cool and satisfying!
