No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Dessert is a timeless, crowd-pleasing treat that brings together juicy strawberries, fluffy cream, and soft cake layers in one irresistible dish. It’s light yet indulgent, sweet but balanced, and perfect for everything from family gatherings to holiday tables. Each spoonful delivers layers of fresh fruit, silky cream, and tender cake soaked with strawberry juices, creating a dessert that feels nostalgic and comforting.

This recipe shines because of its simplicity and flexibility. You can use your favorite cake or cookies, make it ahead of time, and customize the layers to suit your taste. There’s no baking required if you choose store-bought components, and the results always look impressive. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears quickly and gets requested again and again.

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy to assemble, visually beautiful, and guaranteed to please a crowd, this Creamy Strawberry Dream Layered Dessert is exactly what you need.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert has so much to offer with very little effort.

It’s no-bake and beginner-friendly
Perfect for making ahead of time
Light, creamy, and not overly sweet
Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
Flexible with cake or cookie options
Ideal for parties, potlucks, and holidays
Beautiful layered presentation

Preparation and Chilling Time

This recipe is mostly hands-off and improves as it chills.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Chill Time: At least 4 hours (overnight recommended)
Total Time: About 4 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

Strawberry Layer

2 pounds fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and sliced
½ cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for brightness)

Cream Layer

2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sweetened condensed milk

Cake Layer (Choose One)

1 store-bought pound cake, cubed
OR 1 prepared angel food cake, cubed
OR 2 packages vanilla wafer cookies
OR 1 package ladyfinger cookies

Optional Toppings

Additional sliced strawberries
Crushed cookies
White chocolate shavings
Fresh mint leaves

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

Place the sliced strawberries in a large bowl. Add the granulated sugar and lemon juice if using. Gently stir until the strawberries are evenly coated.

Let the strawberries sit for 15–20 minutes. This allows them to release their natural juices and form a light syrup that will soak into the cake layers and add flavor throughout the dessert. Set aside.

Make the Creamy Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until completely smooth and free of lumps.

Add the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Beat again until the mixture is thick, silky, and fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whip the cold heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form. The whipped cream should be light and airy, not grainy.

Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula. Work slowly and carefully to maintain volume. The final filling should be smooth, fluffy, and stable.

Prepare the Cake Layer

If using cake, cut it into 1-inch cubes.

If using cookies, leave them whole or lightly crushed depending on your texture preference.

The pieces should be large enough to hold structure but small enough to layer evenly.

Assemble the Dessert

Choose a 9×13-inch glass dish or a deep trifle bowl.

Start with a single layer of cake or cookies across the bottom of the dish.

Spoon one-third of the strawberries over the cake, including some of the syrup.

Spread one-third of the cream filling evenly over the strawberries.

Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with the cream layer on top.

Garnish and Chill

Smooth the top neatly with a spatula. Garnish with sliced strawberries, crushed cookies, or white chocolate shavings if desired.

Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours. For the best flavor and texture, chill overnight.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled straight from the refrigerator
Scoop into bowls or cut into squares if using a glass dish
Add fresh mint for a pop of color and freshness
Pair with coffee or iced tea for a perfect finish

Helpful Tips

Dry the strawberries well before slicing to avoid excess liquid
Use full-fat cream cheese for the smoothest texture
Do not overwhip the cream or the filling may become dense
Overnight chilling gives the cake time to absorb the flavors

Recipe Variations

Add blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry version
Use chocolate wafers or brownies for a richer twist
Layer in a thin spread of strawberry jam for extra intensity
Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a different flavor profile

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best enjoyed cold and actually improves after the first day as the layers meld together.

Freezing is not recommended, as the cream layer can separate once thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen strawberries?
Fresh strawberries are best. Frozen strawberries release too much liquid and can make the dessert watery.

Can I make this a day ahead?
Yes, this dessert is ideal for making a day in advance.

What cake works best?
Angel food cake keeps it light, while pound cake makes it richer. Vanilla wafers add a nostalgic crunch.

Conclusion

Creamy Strawberry Dream Layered Dessert is the perfect balance of fresh fruit, airy cream, and soft cake. It’s easy to assemble, endlessly adaptable, and always a hit. Whether you’re serving it at a celebration or enjoying it as a make-ahead family dessert, this recipe delivers comfort, elegance, and irresistible flavor in every layer.