Layered Strawberry-Cracker Dessert
A delightful layered strawberry-cracker dessert featuring fresh strawberries, creamy whipped topping, and crunchy graham crackers, perfect for summer gatherings or family desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the strawberry jello in boiling water.
- Add cold water and chill until slightly thickened.
- Meanwhile, slice strawberries, reserving a few whole for garnish.
- Sprinkle sliced berries with sugar, if desired.
- Fold in thawed Cool Whip into the jello mixture, blending well.
- Gently fold in the sliced strawberries.
- Place 9 graham cracker squares in the bottom of a 9-inch pan.
- Spread half of the jello and berry mixture over the crackers.
- Add another layer of graham crackers, then spread the remaining jello mixture.
- Top with remaining graham crackers, pressing lightly.
- Chill until firm, about 3 hours.
- Cut into squares and garnish with whole berries and additional whipped cream, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
To make this dessert even more refreshing, consider using fresh mint leaves for garnish or a splash of lemon juice with the strawberries for added zest. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half of the Cool Whip with Greek yogurt. For a twist, try using different flavored jello or berries like blueberries or raspberries for a unique take on this layered treat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dessert chilled, cutting it into squares for easy serving. It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. For a festive touch, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream on top and serving alongside a slice of Honeycomb Coffee Cake for a delightful brunch spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dessert can last for up to 3 days. Due to the whipped topping, it’s best consumed cold and fresh, so avoid freezing as it can alter the texture of the Cool Whip and the jello layers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Layered Strawberry-Cracker Dessert contains roughly 243 calories, with 1g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the dessert. This will help maintain the texture of the layered dessert and ensure it sets properly.
Is it possible to make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent it from absorbing any odors from other foods.
What can I use instead of graham crackers?
If you’re looking for a substitute for graham crackers, consider using crushed digestive biscuits or even chocolate wafers for a richer flavor. You can also make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free cookies or crackers.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).