Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum is a classic layered dessert with a buttery graham cracker crust, fluffy cream cheese filling, and juicy strawberry topping. It’s cool, creamy, and bursting with berry flavor—perfect for potlucks, holidays, or warm-weather gatherings. No baking required, just sweet comfort in every bite.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

graham cracker crumbsunsalted buttermeltedgranulated sugarcream cheesepowdered sugarvanilla extractwhipped topping or homemade whipped creamfresh strawberriesgranulated sugarlime or lemon juicecornstarchwater

directions

In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and a bit of sugar until combined.

Press into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to form a firm crust. Chill in the fridge.

In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and fluffy.

Fold in half of the whipped topping until light and creamy.

Spread the cream cheese layer evenly over the crust and chill.

In a saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and water.

Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture thickens and becomes glossy. Let cool.

Spread cooled strawberry topping over the cream layer.

Top with the remaining whipped topping and spread evenly.

Chill for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 12.Preparation time: 25 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesChilling time: 4 hoursTotal time: 4 hours 35 minutes

Variations

Use crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread for the crust.

Add sliced fresh strawberries between the layers for extra texture.

Use a strawberry jam layer instead of homemade topping for a shortcut.

Try it with raspberries or peaches for a twist.

Add chopped pecans or coconut to the crust for added flavor.

storage/reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Not suitable for freezing due to the whipped layers.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it’s best made a day ahead to let the layers set.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, thaw and drain well before using. They’re best in the cooked topping.

Is this dessert very sweet?

It has a balanced sweetness, but you can adjust sugar in each layer to your taste.

Can I use homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely! Just stabilize it with a little powdered sugar if storing overnight.

What if I don’t have cornstarch?

Use flour or arrowroot as a thickener in the topping.

Can I make this in a smaller dish?

Yes, halve the recipe for an 8×8-inch dish.

Do I need to bake the crust?

No baking is required—just chill to firm it up.

Can I skip the top whipped layer?

Yes, or substitute with fresh strawberry slices or shaved white chocolate.

Is this the same as a strawberry delight?

Very similar—they’re both creamy, layered, and crowd-pleasing.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers for the crust.

Conclusion

Fresh Strawberry Yum Yum is the perfect no-bake dessert for when you want something cool, creamy, and fruity. With its luscious layers and sweet-tart strawberry flavor, it’s easy to see why this Southern classic is a favorite at gatherings of all kinds. Make it once, and it’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your dessert rotation.

Print