Description
This Summer Berry Frozen Dessert is a refreshing no-bake treat perfect for warm weather. Featuring a buttery graham cracker crust topped with a creamy mixture of cream cheese, sweetened condensed milk, fresh lemon juice, and vibrant berries, this dessert is chilled until firm and served as a delightful frozen delight.
Ingredients
Crust
- 3 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 6 Tablespoons light brown sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, melted
Filling
- 16 oz. cream cheese, softened (use brick-style cream cheese)
- 1 (14 oz.) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 ½ cups fresh berries (about 1 cup blueberries, 2/3 cup raspberries, and 2/3 cup diced strawberries)
- 2 teaspoons gelatin dissolved in 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a bowl, stir together graham cracker crumbs and light brown sugar. Add the melted butter and mix well until the crumbs are evenly moistened and hold together when pressed.
- Press the crust: Grease the bottom of a 9×9-inch dish with non-stick spray. Press nearly two-thirds of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish to form an even crust layer. Place the dish in the freezer to chill while you prepare the filling.
- Make the filling: Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat the softened cream cheese in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, beating continuously and scraping down the sides as necessary until fully incorporated. Beat in the fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract for flavor balance. If using gelatin, add the dissolved gelatin mixture now to help set the filling firmly. Finally, gently fold in the fresh berries to distribute evenly without breaking them.
- Assemble the dessert: Spread the creamy berry filling evenly over the chilled graham cracker crust in the dish. Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumb mixture over the top as a final layer.
- Freeze and set: Place the assembled dessert in the freezer for at least 5 to 6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow it to firm up completely.
- Serve and store: Before serving, let the dessert sit at room temperature for 15 to 20 minutes to soften slightly for easy slicing. Keep any leftovers stored in the freezer to maintain freshness.
Notes
- The gelatin is optional but recommended if you want a firmer filling that holds its shape well when sliced.
- Use brick-style cream cheese for best texture and consistency.
- You can customize the berries based on seasonal availability; raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries work wonderfully together.
- Allowing the dessert to soften at room temperature before slicing ensures clean cuts.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.
