Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert

INTRODUCTION

Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert is a delightful treat that combines the sweet and tangy flavors of strawberries with a rich, buttery crust. This dessert is perfect for hot summer days or any gathering where you want to impress your friends and family. By using simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a beautiful dessert that is sure to leave everyone asking for more.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This recipe is beloved for many reasons. First, it is incredibly easy to make. You do not need any special cooking skills, just some mixing and pressing, and it comes together quickly. Second, the combination of flavors and textures is amazing. The crunchy pretzel crust pairs beautifully with the creamy filling and the sweet strawberries. It’s a perfect balance of salty and sweet.

Another reason you will love this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time and kept frozen. This makes it a great choice for parties, picnics, or anytime you want to have a dessert ready to go. Plus, it is very refreshing, making it an ideal summertime treat. Lastly, it looks stunning on a dessert table, with the vibrant color of strawberries peeking through the whipped topping.

HOW TO MAKE Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert

Making this dessert is simple and fun. Here are the steps you will need to follow to create this delicious treat.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert, you will need the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls
• Spoon or spatula
• 11×7-inch dish
• Food processor or blender
• Fine sieve (optional)

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1-1/4 cups crushed pretzels
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
• 1/2 cup thawed nonalcoholic strawberry daiquiri mix
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1 container (16 ounces) frozen sweetened sliced strawberries, thawed
• 1 carton (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed
• 1 container (16 ounces) frozen sweetened sliced strawberries, thawed and undrained

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the Crust: In a small bowl, combine the crushed pretzels, sugar, and melted butter. Stir until everything is mixed well.

2. Press the Mixture: Take the pretzel mixture and press it firmly onto the bottom of a greased 11×7-inch dish. Make sure it is even and compact.

3. Chill the Crust: Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it chill for 30 minutes. This will help the crust hold its shape.

4. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the sweetened condensed milk and the thawed strawberry daiquiri mix. Stir well until blended.

5. Add Cream Cheese: Beat in the softened cream cheese into the mixture until it is smooth and creamy.

6. Incorporate Strawberries: Gently stir in the thawed sliced strawberries.

7. Fold in Whipped Topping: Carefully fold in the thawed whipped topping to create a light and airy mixture.

8. Pour the Filling: Pour the filling over the prepared crust in the dish. It will be quite full, so be careful not to spill.

9. Freeze: Cover the dish and freeze for 4 hours or until solid.

10. Make the Sauce: To create a delicious sauce, puree the thawed undrained strawberries using a food processor or blender.

11. Strain the Sauce: If desired, strain the pureed strawberries through a fine sieve to remove seeds.

12. Drizzle Over Dessert: Once the dessert is set and ready to serve, drizzle the strawberry sauce over the top before slicing and serving.

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HOW TO SERVE Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert

Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert is best served cold. After removing it from the freezer, let it sit for a few minutes to soften slightly, making it easier to cut into squares. Drizzle the strawberry sauce over individual portions or the entire dessert just before serving. For a touch of elegance, you can also add a sprig of fresh mint or a dollop of whipped cream on each piece. This dessert is a perfect ending to any meal, especially on warm days.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert

This dessert is great for storage. You can keep the dessert in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just make sure it is tightly covered to prevent freezer burn. If you have leftovers after serving, return them to the freezer in an airtight container. To thaw, simply transfer it to the refrigerator for a few hours or leave it at room temperature for a short time before serving again.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert pairs well with various beverages. It is especially delicious with iced tea, lemonade, or a glass of chilled white wine. Consider serving it alongside some fresh fruit for added color and a burst of flavor. You could also serve small scoops of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delightful treat.

VARIATIONS

There are many ways to change up this recipe if you want to try something new. Here are a few ideas:

• Change the Fruit: Instead of strawberries, you could use other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
• Add Nuts: For a little crunch, consider adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, into the crust.
• Use Different Cream Cheese Flavors: Try using flavored cream cheese, like strawberry or vanilla, to add another layer of flavor.
• Make it Chocolate: Drizzle some chocolate syrup over the top or mix in some cocoa powder with the cream cheese to create a chocolate variation.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen ones?

Yes, you can use fresh strawberries, but make sure to slice and sweeten them beforehand so they will blend well into the filling.

2. How long does it take to prepare this dessert?

The total time to prepare is about 30 minutes, but you need to factor in the chilling and freezing time, which takes another 4.5 hours.

3. Can I make this dessert without the strawberries?

Yes, you can create a different flavor by using other fruit purees and mixes, just keep the other ingredients the same.

4. What should I do if I don’t have pretzels?

You can use crushed graham crackers or vanilla cookies for the crust instead of pretzels.

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MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert

To make your life easier, you can prepare this dessert in advance. Follow all of the steps until it comes time to freeze, and you can keep it in the freezer for up to 2 months. If you are having a gathering, consider making it a day or two beforehand, so it has plenty of time to set before your guests arrive. This way, you will have an impressive dessert ready to serve without any last-minute prep.

Using these simple steps, you will create a delicious Freezer Strawberry Shortbread Dessert that everyone will love. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or just a sweet treat for yourself, this dessert will surely bring a smile to your face.

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