Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum is a sweet and bright dessert that features juicy strawberries and creamy layers. It’s easy to make and perfect for sharing, or keeping all to yourself!
Who can resist the fruity goodness? I love serving it at gatherings because it’s a crowd-pleaser, and the kids really enjoy the fun layers. Try it out at your next picnic! 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fresh Strawberries: Always use ripe strawberries for the best flavor. If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen berries can work too; just make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dessert a creamy texture. You can swap it for mascarpone cheese for a slightly different taste, or use a dairy-free cream cheese if needed.
Powdered Sugar: It’s used for sweetness and smoothness. If you want a healthier option, you can use agave nectar or honey, but make adjustments for liquid ratios in the recipe.
Heavy Whipping Cream: This adds a rich creaminess. For a lighter option, you could use coconut cream or whipped topping, but it might change the flavor slightly.
Instant Pudding Mix: I suggest using strawberry for more fruitiness, but vanilla works too! Try almond or coconut pudding for a unique twist.
How Do You Make a Perfect Cream Cheese Layer?
The cream cheese layer is crucial for flavor. Start with softened cream cheese, so it blends smoothly with the powdered sugar. Make sure to beat it until there are no lumps. Then, whip the cream until stiff peaks form—this makes the layer light and fluffy.
- Beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.
- Whip heavy cream in a separate bowl until stiff peaks form.
- Carefully fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, being gentle to keep it airy.
Spreading this fluffy mixture over the crust creates a delightful contrast to the pudding layer. Patience during these steps really pays off for this dessert!
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs, divided
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
For the Cream Cheese Layer:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
For the Pudding Layer:
- 1 package (3.4 oz) strawberry or vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
For Garnish:
- Additional strawberries, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dessert takes about 20 minutes to prepare. After making it, you’ll want to chill it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours to let it set properly before serving. Perfect for a refreshing treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Crust:
Start by mixing 1 cup of graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter in a medium bowl. Stir well until the crumbs are fully coated in butter. Now, press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create a nice, even crust. This will be the base for your yum yum!
2. Making the Cream Cheese Layer:
In another medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese together with the powdered sugar until it’s smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, pour in the heavy cream and whip it until stiff peaks form (this means it should hold its shape!). Next, gently fold this whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until everything is nicely combined. Spread this creamy topping evenly over your prepared crust.
3. Preparing the Pudding Layer:
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the instant pudding mix and milk. Keep whisking for about 2 minutes until it thickens up nicely. Once thick, pour the pudding over the cream cheese layer and make sure to spread it out evenly so every bite has some pudding goodness!
4. Adding the Strawberries:
Now it’s time for the fresh strawberries! Take your sliced strawberries and layer them evenly over the pudding layer. They will add a lovely touch of freshness to your dessert.
5. Finishing the Dish:
In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/2 cup of graham cracker crumbs with any leftover melted butter you might have. Sprinkle this mixture over the strawberries for a nice crunch on top.
6. Chilling:
Cover your delicious creation with plastic wrap and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long! This will help all the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Serving:
Finally, when you’re ready to serve, take it out of the fridge and garnish with additional fresh strawberries on top. Cut into squares and enjoy your refreshing Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum!
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but keep in mind that they may release more liquid when thawed. It’s best to thaw them in the fridge and drain excess juice before slicing and layering to ensure your dish doesn’t become watery.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or a non-dairy cream cheese alternative. Just keep an eye on the texture; it may be slightly different, but still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed cold, so you can simply take it out and enjoy when you crave something sweet!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, this is a great make-ahead dessert! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
