Ingredients and Weight:
- Graham cracker crumbs: 1 cup (113g)
- Sugar: 1/2 cup (100g)
- Unsalted butter, melted: 1/3 cup (75g)
- Cream cheese, softened: 8 ounces (226g)
- Sugar: 1 cup (200g)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml)
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240ml)
- Strawberries, hulled and sliced: 1 pound (453g)
- Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml)
Preparation Time:
30 minutes
Cooking Time:
None
Difficulty Level:
2 (Easy)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9x13 inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press into the prepared pan and bake for 10-12 minutes, until golden brown.
- Let the crust cool completely.
- In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the sugar and vanilla extract and beat until light and fluffy.
- In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture.
- Spread the cream cheese filling over the cooled crust.
- In a small bowl, combine the strawberries and lemon juice.
- Arrange the strawberries over the cream cheese filling.
- Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
Nutritional Information:
Per serving (1/8th of the recipe):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g (30%)
- Saturated fat: 12g (60%)
- Cholesterol: 50mg (17%)
- Sodium: 250mg (10%)
- Carbohydrates: 40g (13%)
- Dietary fiber: 2g (8%)
- Sugar: 28g
Dish Characteristics:
- Creamy and light
- Sweet and tangy
- Fruity and refreshing
- Perfect for summer entertaining or any special occasion
User Comments:
- "These squares are so delicious and easy to make. I love the combination of the creamy filling and the sweet strawberries."
- "I've made these squares several times now and they're always a hit. They're perfect for potlucks or dinner parties."
- "The strawberries add a beautiful pop of color to the dessert. It's also a great way to use up fresh fruit."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before mixing. This will make it easier to beat until smooth.
- For a more intense strawberry flavor, use fresh, ripe strawberries and let them macerate in the lemon juice for 15-20 minutes before arranging on the cream cheese filling.
- If you don't have parchment paper, you can line the baking pan with aluminum foil and grease it with cooking spray.
