Strawberry Delight is a refreshing treat that combines the crunch of a buttery graham cracker crust with a sweet and tangy strawberry topping. Perfect for summer picnics or a light dessert, this easy recipe will become a family favorite.
The base of our dessert is made from graham cracker crumbs, which provide a sweet, crunchy foundation. Unsalted butter binds the crumbs together and adds richness. A bit of granulated sugar sweetens the crust, enhancing the overall flavor. The star of the show, fresh strawberries, bring a natural sweetness and tartness, essential for that fresh taste. Lemon juice adds a zesty kick that brightens the strawberry layer, while cornstarch acts as a thickener, ensuring the topping holds its shape. The whipped topping gives a light, airy finish, perfectly complemented by a hint of vanilla extract for added depth.
Strawberry Delight pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. For a refreshing twist, serve it with a sprig of mint. It's also delightful with a chilled glass of sparkling rosé for a more adult treat.
Let's start by preheating your oven to 350°F. In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and 1/4 cup of sugar. Stir until everything is well combined, then press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9-inch square baking dish. Make sure it's even and compact to form a solid crust.
Pop the crust into the oven and bake it for 10 minutes. This helps set it and brings out a lovely toasted flavor. Once done, take it out and let it cool completely. Meanwhile, let's work on the strawberry topping.
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sliced strawberries, 1/2 cup of sugar, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Stir continuously as you cook, watching as the mixture thickens up in about 5 minutes. Once thickened, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool. Spreading it hot could mess up the crust.
Once both the crust and strawberry mix are cool, spread the strawberry mixture evenly over the crust. In another bowl, mix the whipped topping with the vanilla extract, then spread it over the strawberry layer, ensuring it's evenly covered. Now, refrigerate the dessert for at least 2 hours. This helps it set, making it easier to slice and serve.
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