Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- Grind graham crackers in a blender until fine. Mix crumbs with melted butter until evenly coated. Press firmly into a 9×9 inch pan.
- Chill the crust while you work.
- Wash and thoroughly dry all strawberries. Remove stems. Dice enough to make 1 cup of small pieces and set aside. Slice the remaining strawberries lengthwise and pat dry.
- Chill a mixing bowl in the freezer for 5–10 minutes.
Filling Preparation
- Beat 1 cup heavy whipping cream at medium-high until soft peaks form. Gradually add ½ cup powdered sugar and beat to stiff peaks. Set aside.
- Beat the cream cheese, ¼ cup granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla until smooth and silky.
- Fold the whipped cream into this mixture with a spatula until blended.
- Divide the cheesecake mixture into two equal portions. Stir the strawberry Jello powder and diced strawberries into one portion to make the pink filling.
Assembly
- Arrange the sliced strawberries over the chilled crust.
- Spread the plain cheesecake filling over the strawberries, smoothing it gently.
- Spread the strawberry cheesecake filling evenly on top.
- For extra polish, beat the second 1 cup heavy whipping cream to soft peaks, add ½ cup powdered sugar, and beat to stiff peaks.
- Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the dessert.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate 4–6 hours until fully set.
Notes
Optional garnishes include mint leaves, extra sliced berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Refrigerate leftovers for 3–4 days. Freezing is possible; slices can be frozen up to 1 month and thawed in the fridge overnight.
