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This heavenly Strawberry Cheesecake Reeses dessert combines the tangy sweetness of cheesecake with layers of fresh fruit and chocolate for an irresistible no-bake treat. Perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions, this dessert has become my go-to when I need something that looks impressive but requires minimal effort.
I first created this layered dessert for my daughter's graduation party when I needed something that could feed a crowd. The empty dish and countless recipe requests told me this was a keeper that would become part of our family's celebration traditions.
Ingredients
- Graham cracker crumbs: Create the perfect crunchy base for this dessert while adding that classic cheesecake foundation
- Cream cheese: Provides the rich, tangy flavor that makes this dessert so satisfying. Use full-fat for the creamiest results
- Whipped topping: Keeps the filling light and fluffy without the need for baking. Let it thaw completely for easiest mixing
- Fresh strawberries: Add a burst of color and natural sweetness. Look for bright red berries with no white shoulders for best flavor
- Crushed pineapple: Contributes a tropical note and pleasant acidity. Be sure to drain thoroughly to prevent a soggy dessert
- Bananas: Offer creamy texture and natural sweetness. Choose ones that are ripe but still firm
- Hazelnuts: Provide a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the soft textures. Toast them lightly for enhanced flavor
- Chocolate sauce: Creates an indulgent finish that ties everything together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Foundation:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and salt until the mixture resembles wet sand. The salt is crucial here as it balances the sweetness in the rest of the dessert. Press the mixture firmly into your baking dish using the bottom of a measuring cup to create an even layer with no gaps. Refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to set the crust properly.
- Create the Cheesecake Layer:
- Beat the softened cream cheese for about 2 minutes until completely smooth before adding sugar and vanilla. This prevents lumps in your filling. Gently fold in the whipped topping using a rubber spatula with a light hand to maintain the airiness. Spread this mixture evenly over the chilled crust, making sure to reach the corners of the dish.
- Build the Fruit Layers:
- Slice bananas about 1/4 inch thick and arrange them in slightly overlapping rows covering the cheesecake layer completely. The bananas act as a barrier between the creamy filling and juicy fruit toppings. Spread drained pineapple evenly using the back of a spoon to create a uniform layer. Place sliced strawberries in an attractive pattern, covering the entire surface.
- Complete the Assembly:
- Apply the final whipped topping layer with gentle swoops and swirls for visual appeal. Drizzle chocolate sauce in a zigzag pattern across the top, then immediately sprinkle with chopped hazelnuts so they adhere to the chocolate. Cover carefully with plastic wrap without touching the top and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to allow flavors to meld and layers to set properly.
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The first time I served this dessert was during a summer barbecue when the temperature hit 95 degrees. My kitchen was too hot for baking, but this cool, refreshing dessert saved the day. The strawberry cheesecake combination brings me back to childhood trips to our local diner where I would always order strawberry cheesecake for special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
This dessert actually benefits from being made ahead of time. The flavors meld together beautifully after chilling overnight, making it perfect for entertaining. If you need to prepare it more than 24 hours in advance, wait to add the banana layer until the day of serving to prevent browning. The assembled dessert will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, though the bananas may darken slightly after the first day.
Smart Substitutions
This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. Swap graham crackers for chocolate cookies to create a chocolate crust. Not a fan of hazelnuts? Substitute with pecans, walnuts, or even crushed toffee bits for crunch. For a tropical variation, replace strawberries with mango and kiwi slices. Lactose intolerant guests can enjoy this too when you use dairy free cream cheese and coconut whipped topping.
Serving Suggestions
For an elegant presentation, cut clean slices by dipping your knife in hot water between cuts. Serve on chilled plates with additional fresh strawberries on the side. For extra indulgence, offer chocolate sauce for drizzling at the table. This dessert pairs beautifully with coffee, especially a freshly brewed Ethiopian variety with berry notes that complement the strawberries.
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This no-bake dessert combines simplicity with elegance, making it a family favorite that everyone loves.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! This dessert actually benefits from being made ahead. For the best results, prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate overnight, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.
- → How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
To prevent browning, you can lightly toss the banana slices in a little lemon juice before adding them to the dessert. The pineapple layer on top also helps protect them from air exposure.
- → Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Fresh strawberries work best for texture and appearance. If using frozen, thaw them completely and drain well to prevent excess moisture from making the dessert soggy.
- → What can I substitute for Cool Whip?
You can substitute homemade whipped cream by whipping 2 cups of heavy cream with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- → Is there a nut-free version of this dessert?
Absolutely! Simply omit the hazelnuts or replace them with a nut-free topping like chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, or toasted coconut flakes.
- → How long will this dessert keep in the refrigerator?
This dessert will keep well for 2-3 days in the refrigerator. After that, the fruit may begin to release moisture and the crust might soften too much.