Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Dessert Dip is a luscious and creamy treat perfect for parties or easy snacking. Combining smooth cream cheese, whipped heavy cream, and fresh strawberries with a hint of vanilla and almond extracts, this no-bake dessert captures the essence of the classic shortcake in a delightful dip form. Finished with crushed shortbread cookies or pound cake, it offers a perfect balance of sweet, tart, and crunchy textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Base
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Whipped Cream
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream, cold
Mix-ins
- 1 1/2 cups diced fresh strawberries
- 1/2 cup crushed shortbread cookies or pound cake pieces
Garnish (Optional)
- Additional strawberries
- Additional cookie pieces or shortbread crumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the cream cheese base: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth using an electric mixer. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract if using, and continue mixing until all ingredients are well incorporated and creamy.
- Whip the heavy cream: In a separate chilled bowl, whip the cold heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. This step is essential to give the dip its fluffy texture.
- Combine mixtures: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, using a spatula, until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
- Add strawberries and cookies: Fold in the diced fresh strawberries and crushed shortbread cookies or pound cake pieces evenly throughout the dip, ensuring an even distribution of texture and flavor.
- Chill the dip: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl, cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and the dip to firm up slightly.
- Serve and garnish: Before serving, garnish with additional fresh strawberries and cookie pieces if desired. Serve with vanilla wafers, graham crackers, or sliced fruit for dipping.
Notes
- For a sweeter dip, increase the amount of powdered sugar according to taste.
- Use freeze-dried strawberries for an added crunchy texture in place of fresh.
- This dip can be made up to one day in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator to enhance flavor and convenience.
- Ensure the heavy cream is well chilled for optimal whipping results.
- Alternative dippers can include pretzels, biscotti, or pound cake slices for variety.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
