This Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum is a sweet and creamy delight made with juicy strawberries and whipped goodness. Perfect for dessert lovers, it’s like a hug in a bowl!
I can never resist this treat, especially with all those fresh strawberries on top! It’s a breeze to make, and I love to share it with friends on sunny days. 🍓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Crumbs: These form the base of our dessert. If you don’t have graham crackers, you can crush vanilla wafers or even sugar cookies for a different twist. I love the crunch of the graham crackers though – they add a nice texture!
Butter: Melted butter is a must for binding the crust together. In a pinch, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a non-dairy option. Just make sure it’s melted for the best results.
Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese well before beating it for a smooth consistency. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Neufchâtel cheese is a great substitute that is lower in fat.
Whipped Topping: I prefer Cool Whip for its convenient use, but you can whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar for homemade topping. Just be aware that it might not hold up as long as the store-bought version.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries give the best taste and texture! If they’re out of season, you can use frozen berries (thawed) or canned strawberries without the syrup, though the flavor may vary slightly.
How Do You Make the Graham Cracker Crust Just Right?
Getting that crust perfect is key to a great Yum Yum. To ensure it’s well-formed, follow these steps:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter in a bowl. The mixture should resemble wet sand.
- Press it firmly into the bottom of your baking dish using the back of a measuring cup or your hands. This ensures a solid base.
- Bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes until golden. Let it cool completely, so it’s crispy and holds up against the fillings.
This step is essential as it prevents the crust from becoming soggy once you add the layers. Take your time here for the best results!
How to Make Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Crust:
- 1 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup butter, melted
For The Cream Cheese Layer:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip), thawed
For The Topping:
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 can (21 oz) strawberry pie filling
- Additional strawberries for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 4 hours to chill in the refrigerator. You’ll spend a little time mixing, baking, and layering these fresh ingredients, making it a fun and rewarding process!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter with a spoon until everything is well combined. Then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to create a crust. Pop it in the oven and bake for about 10 minutes until it’s a little golden. Once baked, let it cool completely.
2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
While your crust cools, grab a large mixing bowl. In it, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together using an electric mixer until it’s super smooth and creamy. Then gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until it’s all beautifully blended and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Yum Yum:
Now it’s time to layer! Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the cooled graham cracker crust. Next, arrange your sliced strawberries on top of the cream cheese layer, creating a colorful, fruity design. Finally, pour the strawberry pie filling evenly over the strawberries, covering everything deliciously.
4. Chill and Garnish:
Cover your dish with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or until it’s fully set. When you’re ready to serve, take it out and garnish with additional strawberries and, if you’d like, a sprinkle of leftover graham cracker crumbs on top. Slice it up and enjoy your delightful Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum!
Can I Use Gluten-Free Graham Crackers for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just substitute regular graham cracker crumbs with gluten-free graham cracker crumbs or crushed gluten-free cookies. Make sure to check that your butter and other ingredients are gluten-free as well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap if you want to keep it in the original dish. Enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge!
Can I Substitute Fresh Strawberries with Frozen Strawberries?
You can use frozen strawberries, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. This helps prevent a soggy layer in your Yum Yum dessert. Fresh strawberries tend to give a better texture and flavor, but frozen works in a pinch!
Can I Make This Dessert Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and swap out the whipped topping with a dairy-free whipped cream. Ensure your butter is also dairy-free, such as using a plant-based butter. This way, you can enjoy a creamy Yum Yum dessert without the dairy!
