Ingredients
2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon lemon zest
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8-ounce) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
2 (14.4-ounce) boxes graham crackers
4 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
Instructions
Step 1: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 2: Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk to the cream cheese, beating until well combined and smooth.
Step 3: Stir in the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract. Mix until thoroughly incorporated.
Step 4: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until no streaks remain. Be careful not to overmix, as this can deflate the topping.
Step 5: Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture on the bottom of the dish.
Step 6: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers over the cream cheese mixture, breaking them as needed to fit snugly. (It's okay if there are small gaps).
Step 7: Spread about one-third of the remaining cream cheese mixture over the graham crackers.
Step 8: Sprinkle about one-third of the fresh mixed berries evenly over the cream cheese layer.
Step 9: Repeat the layering process: graham crackers, then cream cheese mixture, then berries, until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cream cheese mixture and a generous topping of fresh berries. You should have 3-4 layers of graham crackers.
Step 10: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
Step 11: Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy this delightful addition to your easy summer dessert recipes!
Notes
For best results, allow the cake to chill overnight. This gives the graham crackers ample time to soften and fully absorb the creamy goodness. You can add a sprinkle of fresh mint for an extra touch of freshness before serving. Once assembled, this beautiful cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. I highly recommend using durable Basics Glass Food Storage containers for optimal freshness and to prevent any odors from mixing. This makes planning ahead for your next gathering one of the easiest summer dessert recipes to manage!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts & Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
