Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum

If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing treat that practically embodies spring and summer, look no further than this irresistible Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum. This classic, no-bake Southern dessert layers juicy strawberries, pillowy whipped cream, and a buttery graham cracker crust for a treat that’s both nostalgic and utterly delicious. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple afternoon craving, every bite bursts with fresh flavor, creamy texture, and the prettiest pink hue—it’s no wonder Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum wins hearts wherever it’s served.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dessert comes together with just a handful of kitchen staples and plenty of sun-kissed strawberries. Each ingredient plays a special role, from the crisp crust to the silky filling, making each layer just as crave-worthy as the next.

• Graham cracker crumbs: These form the base and topping, adding a subtly sweet crunch and golden color.
• Unsalted butter: Melted butter binds the crumbs and infuses rich, buttery flavor in every bite.
• Fresh strawberries (5 to 6 cups, sliced): The undisputed star of this dessert, for juicy pops of real fruit throughout.
• Strawberry Jell-o (3 oz. package): A shortcut to extra strawberry punch, helping the berry layer set up perfectly.
• Cream cheese (2 x 8 oz. packages, softened): Gives structure and tangy creaminess to the filling.
• Confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture just enough, without grittiness.
• Whipping cream (4 cups): Whipped into fluffy clouds, this lightens and enriches the filling.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp., divided): Adds warmth and depth, echoing the classic bakery aroma.
• Granulated sugar (6 Tbsp): Ensures the whipped cream is sweet but not cloying.
• Non-stick cooking spray: For prepping the pan—essential for smooth serving!

How to Make Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum

Step 1: Make the Strawberry Filling

Start by combining your fresh sliced strawberries and dry strawberry Jell-o in a saucepan. Gently stir until every slice is dusted in pink. Over medium-low heat, warm the mixture just until the Jell-o dissolves and clings to the fruit. You’re not cooking the berries, just helping everything meld into a jammy, vibrant filling. Set it aside to cool while you tackle the other layers.

Step 2: Prepare the Buttery Graham Cracker Crust

Mix the graham cracker crumbs with melted unsalted butter in a bowl and toss until every crumb glistens. Reserve a few tablespoons for the final flourish, then press the rest firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan spritzed with non-stick spray. It’s your golden, crisp foundation, so really pack it down for the best bite!

Step 3: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Mixture

Beat together softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and half the vanilla extract until completely smooth and luscious. In a separate bowl, whip the chilled cream with granulated sugar and the rest of the vanilla until you’ve got dreamy stiff peaks. Gently fold the fluffy whipped cream into your cream cheese base for a thick yet airy mixture that will anchor both the color and the flavor of the Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum.

Step 4: Assemble Those Signature Layers

Now comes the fun part! Spread a little less than half the cream cheese mixture over the crust, using a spatula to even it out. Next, spoon the cooled strawberry filling across the surface and spread until you have a ruby-red layer. Top with the rest of the cream cheese mixture, smoothing all the way to the edges. Don’t forget to sprinkle those reserved graham crumbs on top for an oh-so-inviting finish.

Step 5: Chill and Set—Then Dig In!

Cover your masterpiece and refrigerate for several hours, or overnight if you can wait that long! This lets the layers firm up and flavors develop, making each slice picture-perfect. Trust me, sharing Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum at its chilled, just-set best is worth the wait.

How to Serve Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum

Garnishes

I love adding extra flair to every dessert plate. Try finishing each piece with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a few fanned strawberry slices. For a color contrast, tuck in a sprig of mint—this simple garnish makes your Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum look like it came straight from a fancy bakery!

Side Dishes

Nothing says summer quite like pairing this dessert with a light, citrusy salad or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. The creamy, fruity layers of Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum are complemented by fresh seasonal berries or even a tart lemonade for a cool, refreshing vibe.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, portion your Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum into small mason jars or parfait glasses for adorable single servings. For potlucks, whip up a batch in a trifle dish or even cupcake liners for easy grab-and-go pieces, adding a rustic-chic feel to your dessert table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum keeps well for up to three days—just be sure to keep it chilled for the best texture and taste.

Freezing

If you’d like to freeze some for later, chill the dessert first so it firms up, then wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to one month. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge—while the texture will stay mostly creamy, you may notice a slight change due to the whipped cream.

Reheating

No oven needed! Since Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum is a no-bake, chilled dessert, all you need to do is let it sit at room temperature for ten to fifteen minutes before serving if it’s too firm from the refrigerator. After that, it’ll slice beautifully and taste as fresh as ever.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

While fresh berries give the best texture and appearance, you can use thawed, well-drained frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just know the filling may turn out a touch softer due to the extra moisture.

Is it possible to make Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum with other fruits?

Absolutely! This recipe is a blank canvas for other juicy favorites like blueberries, raspberries, or peaches. Just swap the fruit and Jell-o flavor to match your choice.

Can I substitute Cool Whip for the homemade whipped cream?

Yes, you can substitute 16 ounces of Cool Whip for the homemade whipped cream if you’re short on time, though I find the flavor and texture extra luscious with freshly whipped cream.

How do I halve the recipe?

It’s super easy! Just split all the ingredients in half and assemble your Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum in an 8×8-inch pan. Perfect for smaller gatherings or when you want “just a little something sweet.”

Is sugar-free strawberry Jell-o okay to use?

Definitely! Sugar-free Jell-o works just as well in this recipe, so feel free to use it for a lower sugar version without compromising flavor or texture.

Final Thoughts

This Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum has earned its place as a family favorite for a reason—it’s wonderfully creamy, bursting with real berries, and delightfully simple to make. I hope you give it a try soon, and that it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. Let your spring and summer celebrations sparkle with every luscious bite!

Strawberry Pound Cake Recipe

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Love spring and summer’s fresh strawberries? They’re even better enjoyed in this dreamy, creamy Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum! A layer of fresh berries sandwiched between two thick fluffy layers of deliciousness makes for one very tasty dessert, indeed. As an added bonus, this Southern classic is no-bake, too.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: No-Bake
• Cuisine: Southern
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Crust:

• 2 1/2 c. graham cracker crumbs
• 12 T. unsalted butter, melted

Strawberry Filling:

• 5 to 6 c. sliced fresh strawberries
• 1 (3 oz.) package strawberry Jell-o

Cream Cheese Mixture:

• 2 (8 oz.) packages cream cheese, softened
• 1 c. confectioners’ sugar
• 4 c. whipping cream
• 2 tsp. vanilla extract, divided
• 6 T. granulated sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberry Filling: Place sliced strawberries in a saucepan and sprinkle with dry Jell-o powder; stir gently to evenly coat berries. Heat over medium-low heat just until Jell-o is dissolved. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Crust: In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and melted butter. Blend with a fork until crumbs are moistened. Set aside 3 tablespoons of crumbs to sprinkle on the top. Press crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan that’s been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: With an electric mixer, cream together softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, whip the whipping cream, granulated sugar, and remaining 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. By hand, mix together whipped cream and cream cheese mixture until well combined.
4. Assemble the Yum Yum Layers: Spread a little less than half the cream cheese/whipped cream mixture evenly over the crust. Gently spoon and spread cooled strawberry filling evenly over the cream cheese layer. Top strawberry layer with the remaining cream cheese/whipped cream mixture. Gently spread it evenly over the strawberry layer, covering it completely. Sprinkle the top with the 3 tablespoons reserved graham cracker crumbs. Cover and refrigerate for several hours or overnight before serving.

Notes

• 2 (16 oz.) packages of strawberries will yield the about 5 to 6 cups sliced berries needed in this recipe.
• Sugar-free strawberry Jell-o works just fine, if you’d prefer.
• You can substitute 16 ounces of Cool Whip non-dairy whipped topping for the homemade whipped cream in the cream cheese mixture if you’d like.
• You can easily halve this recipe and prepare it in an 8×8-inch pan.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 380
• Sugar: 24g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 3g
• Cholesterol: 90mg