Ingredients
8 ounces cream cheese, full fat, softened to room temperature
1/2 cup granulated sugar (or to taste)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 ounces whipped topping, thawed (e.g., Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
3 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries; fresh or frozen, thawed and well drained)
Fresh mint leaves and extra berries for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Step 1: Prepare your berries. If using fresh, gently wash, pat dry, hull and slice strawberries. If using frozen, thaw completely in a colander, then press out excess liquid. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Soften the cream cheese. Remove from fridge at least 30-60 minutes before starting. It must be at room temperature.
3. Step 3: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese, sugar, and vanilla extract with an electric mixer on medium speed until completely smooth and creamy, 2-3 minutes. Scrape down sides as needed.
4. Step 4: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping using a rubber spatula. Fold carefully with an upward, circular motion until no streaks remain and mixture is light and airy. Do not overmix.
5. Step 5: Fold in the prepared mixed berries gently until distributed, without crushing them.
6. Step 6: Transfer to a serving bowl or individual cups. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to overnight). Garnish with fresh mint and extra berries before serving.
Notes
Room temperature cream cheese is essential for a smooth texture. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese or substitute with mascarpone. To make dairy-free, use dairy-free cream cheese and plant-based whipped topping. Sweetness can be adjusted to taste; add more sugar if berries are tart. Frozen berries must be thawed and well-drained to prevent a watery fluff. Chill time is crucial for flavor melding and proper set. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. Do not freeze or reheat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten-free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 256
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 195mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 48mg