This elegant, no-bake strawberry cream dessert combines the freshness of strawberries with the richness of cream cheese, whipped cream, and condensed milk to create a treat that’s as indulgent as it is simple. Layered with soft Savoiardi biscuits and finished with a hint of vanilla and lemon, this creamy dessert is perfect for summer entertaining, romantic dinners, or when you simply want to indulge in something sweet and beautiful without turning on the oven.
It’s a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious—sweet, tart strawberries meet luscious cream, and the addition of a light biscuit base brings textural contrast to every spoonful. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe is destined to become a favorite in your no-bake dessert rotation.
Preparation Time
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Prep Time: 25 minutes
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Chilling Time: 1 hour (optional for firmer texture)
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Total Time: 25–85 minutes
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Compote:
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100g fresh strawberries, chopped
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30g sugar
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10ml lemon juice
For the Cream Layer:
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200ml heavy cream (cold)
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20g sweetened condensed milk
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20g sugar
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1 packet (about 8g) vanilla sugar
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150g cream cheese (room temperature)
For Assembly:
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5 Savoiardi biscuits (ladyfingers)
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5g powdered sugar
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2g pink or red food coloring (optional for decorative topping)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
1. Prepare the Strawberry Compote
Place the chopped 100g strawberries into a small saucepan. Add 30g sugar and 10ml lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries soften and the mixture becomes syrupy (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
2. Make the Cream Layer
In a mixing bowl, whip the 200ml cold heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the 20g condensed milk, 20g sugar, and vanilla sugar, and continue whipping until firm peaks form.
In a separate bowl, beat the 150g cream cheese until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture using a spatula until well combined and fluffy.
3. Assemble the Dessert
Break or cut the 5 Savoiardi biscuits into pieces to fit your dessert cups or serving glasses. Place a biscuit layer at the bottom of each glass.
Spoon a layer of the cooled strawberry compote over the biscuits, followed by a generous dollop of the cream cheese mixture. Repeat the layering if your glasses are tall enough.
4. Decorate the Top
In a small bowl, mix 5g powdered sugar with 2g food coloring and a few drops of water until you form a thick, colored icing. Drizzle or dot the icing over the top of each dessert for a decorative touch.
5. Chill (Optional)
For a firmer set and more melded flavors, refrigerate the assembled dessert cups for at least 1 hour before serving.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve cold, optionally garnished with a fresh strawberry or mint leaf.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings)
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Calories: ~270
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Total Fat: 18g
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Saturated Fat: 11g
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Carbohydrates: 22g
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Sugars: 18g
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Protein: 4g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sodium: 60mg
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Calcium: 8% DV
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Vitamin C: 25% DV
Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
This dessert borrows elements from classic European sweets like tiramisu, which uses Savoiardi biscuits, and no-bake cheesecakes, which often include a whipped cream and cream cheese filling. It also shares traits with American-style strawberry shortcake, given its use of strawberries and cream.
The no-bake dessert cup concept has surged in popularity due to its convenience, minimal equipment needs, and stunning presentation. Perfect for home cooks, busy families, or beginner bakers, these individual-sized desserts offer elegance without the stress of complex baking techniques.
Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Quick and easy: No baking, no special tools, and done in under 30 minutes
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Perfect for warm weather: A refreshing, chilled dessert
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Elegant presentation: Looks beautiful in a glass or dessert cup
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Creamy and fruity: A delightful combination of textures and flavors
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Ideal for make-ahead: Can be chilled until needed
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Customizable: Swap fruits, add toppings, or make it layered
Health Benefits
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Vitamin C from fresh strawberries boosts immunity and skin health
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Calcium and protein from cream and cream cheese support bone health
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Lemon juice provides antioxidants and enhances digestion
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Portion control through individual servings
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Lower sugar than many traditional baked desserts
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a sprig of fresh mint or a halved strawberry on top
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Dust with cocoa powder or cinnamon for a tiramisu-like twist
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Add a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for extra indulgence
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Pair with sparkling wine, iced tea, or espresso
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Serve on a dessert tray with other no-bake bites for variety
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Over-whipping the cream, which may cause it to split
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Not cooling the compote before layering, which melts the cream
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Using warm cream cheese, which makes the mixture too loose
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Skipping the chill time if you prefer firmer texture
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Using low-fat substitutes, which may affect creaminess and structure
Pairing Recommendations
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Beverages: Pair with a crisp white wine like Riesling, strawberry-infused lemonade, or a chilled latte
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Main Course: Follows well after light dishes like grilled chicken, fish, or pasta primavera
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Other Desserts: Serve alongside macarons, lemon bars, or chocolate mousse
Cooking Tips
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Use full-fat cream cheese for the richest texture
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Always chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream
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Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier blending
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Adjust sweetness by tasting as you go
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For a firmer base, you can briefly soak Savoiardi in strawberry syrup
Similar Recipes to Try
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No-Bake Tiramisu Cups
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Strawberry Cheesecake Parfaits
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Lemon Mascarpone Cream Cups
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Berry Yogurt and Granola Trifles
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Chocolate Mousse with Berries
Variations to Try
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Swap strawberries for raspberries, blueberries, or mango
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Use mascarpone cheese instead of cream cheese for Italian flair
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Layer with crushed graham crackers or digestive biscuits
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Add a splash of strawberry liqueur or Amaretto for an adult twist
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Fold in mini chocolate chips or white chocolate curls into the cream
Ingredient Spotlight: Savoiardi Biscuits
Also known as ladyfingers, Savoiardi are light, sweet sponge biscuits originating from Italy. They are famous for their role in tiramisu but are incredibly versatile. Their dry texture allows them to absorb moisture from creams and syrups, becoming soft and flavorful without falling apart. In this dessert, they serve as a tender base that balances the richness of the cream and the tartness of the strawberries.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Strawberry Cream Dessert with Cream Cheese and Savoiardi is a delightful blend of elegance, flavor, and simplicity. It’s an ideal treat for summer afternoons, dinner parties, or whenever you crave a creamy indulgence with a fruity twist. With its light, layered structure and refreshing taste, it’s sure to win hearts and disappear quickly from the table.
Whether you serve it in a wine glass, a jar, or a dessert bowl, this sweet, tangy, and creamy cup of bliss proves that a little effort—and no oven—can go a long way in dessert magic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Absolutely. Just thaw them and drain excess liquid before making the compote.
3. What can I use instead of Savoiardi biscuits?
Graham crackers, shortbread cookies, or even sponge cake pieces work well.
4. Can I make this dessert sugar-free?
Yes, you can substitute the sugar with erythritol or stevia, and use sugar-free condensed milk.
5. How long does this dessert last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.
6. Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended as it may affect the texture of the cream and strawberries.
7. What kind of cream should I use?
Use heavy whipping cream or double cream for best results.
8. Can I add gelatin to firm up the dessert?
Yes, you can dissolve a small amount of gelatin into the cream mixture if you want a firmer mousse.
9. Is this dessert suitable for children?
Yes! It’s made with fresh fruit and contains no alcohol, making it child-friendly.
10. How do I make it vegan?
Use plant-based cream, vegan cream cheese, and a dairy-free condensed milk alternative. Also, replace Savoiardi with a vegan biscuit.