Ingredients

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

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

• 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. Make the Strawberry Filling

• Add the sliced strawberries to a saucepan and sprinkle the dry Jell-o powder over them. Stir gently so the berries are evenly coated.
• Place over medium-low heat and warm just until the Jell-o dissolves.
• Take off the heat and allow the mixture to cool.

2. Prepare the Crust

• In a mixing bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Use a fork to mix until all crumbs are evenly moistened.
• Remove 3 tablespoons of the mixture and reserve for later.
• Press the remaining crumbs firmly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch pan that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

• Using an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until smooth.
• In a separate bowl, whip together the whipping cream, granulated sugar, and the remaining 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
• Gently combine the whipped cream with the cream cheese mixture by hand until fully blended.

4. Assemble the Layers

• Spread a little less than half of the cream mixture evenly over the prepared crust.
• Carefully spoon the cooled strawberry filling over this layer, spreading it evenly.
• Add the remaining cream mixture on top, spreading it out to completely cover the strawberries.
• Sprinkle the reserved 3 tablespoons of graham cracker crumbs over the top.
• Cover and refrigerate for several hours or overnight before serving.

• 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.