Mile High Dessert
A luscious layered dessert featuring a crunchy graham cracker crust, sweet strawberries, and fluffy whipped cream, perfect for summer gatherings and satisfying sweet cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine crushed graham crackers and melted margarine, then press into a 9 x 13-inch pan to form the crust.
- Place strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, salt, and egg whites in a large mixing bowl.
- Mix at high speed for 15 minutes until well combined.
- Beat whipping cream until fluffy, then gently fold into the strawberry mixture.
- Stir in powdered sugar and vanilla, then combine with the strawberry and whipped cream mixture.
- Spread the mixture on top of the graham cracker crust.
- Freeze until firm before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a firmer texture, let the dessert freeze overnight. If you prefer fresh fruit, you can substitute the frozen strawberries with fresh ones, just ensure they are hulled and chopped. You can also use graham cracker crumbs from store-bought crusts for convenience. If you want to add a twist, consider incorporating a layer of crushed nuts for added crunch, which pairs beautifully with the creamy filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mile High Dessert as a refreshing finish to a summer meal, perhaps after grilled meats or alongside a light salad. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of extra whipped cream on top and can be accompanied by fresh fruit like sliced strawberries or blueberries for added color and flavor. For a more decadent experience, consider serving with a slice of Butterscotch Cheesecake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a month. To serve, simply remove from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes for easier slicing. Avoid refreezing once thawed to maintain the texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mile High Dessert contains roughly 289 calories, with 2g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 996mg per serving (43% of the Daily Value).
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 other fruits besides strawberries?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with other berries like raspberries or blueberries. You can also experiment with fruits like peaches or mangoes. Just make sure to adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose.
Is it necessary to beat the egg whites for 15 minutes?
Yes, beating the egg whites for the full 15 minutes is crucial for achieving the light and airy texture that makes this dessert so delightful. If you're in a hurry, a stand mixer can help speed up the process.
Can I make this dessert a day ahead?
Yes, making it a day ahead is recommended! It allows the flavors to meld and ensures the dessert is fully frozen and ready to serve when your guests arrive. Just remember to keep it covered in the freezer.
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).