Are you ready for a dessert that’s as festive as it is delicious? Picture this: a luscious layer of cream cheese and whipped topping, nestled between buttery graham cracker crumbs and topped with vibrant red strawberries and blue blueberries. This Red White & Blue Mixed Berry Yum Yum embodies the spirit of summer gatherings, and it’s not just visually stunning—it’s incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re hosting a Fourth of July barbecue or simply craving something sweet, this delightful dessert is sure to impress friends and family alike. Plus, it’s a make-ahead treat that saves you time while still delivering maximum flavor. Dive in, and discover how easy it is to create this crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why Make This Recipe
This dessert combines convenience and flavor in the best possible way. Firstly, it can be prepared in under 30 minutes, and once layered, it only needs to chill, freeing you up to enjoy your time with loved ones. Secondly, each bite bursts with the fresh taste of berries, making it a delightful choice for warm summer days while also satisfying your sweet tooth. Additionally, the versatility of this recipe allows you to customize it based on available ingredients, making it budget-friendly. You can easily create this masterpiece ahead of time, allowing for stress-free entertaining.
How to Make Red White & Blue Mixed Berry Yum Yum
Ingredients
- 1 package cream cheese (8 oz), softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped topping
- 1 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 package graham cracker crumbs (about 9 full sheets)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Directions
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture (5-7 minutes)
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes. You want it to be free of lumps.
- Incorporate the Whipped Topping (2 minutes)
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined with the cream cheese mixture. Be careful not to overmix; you want to maintain that light and airy texture.
- Assemble the Dessert Layers (10 minutes)
- In a 9×13 inch dish, layer half of the graham cracker crumbs evenly across the bottom. Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture on top, using a spatula for an even distribution.
- Add the Strawberries (5 minutes)
- Layer the sliced strawberries over the cream cheese mixture, pressing them down lightly. Then, add another layer of the cream cheese mixture on top of the strawberries.
- Final Topping (10 minutes)
- Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs on top, followed by a generous layer of blueberries. Finally, smooth out the remaining cream cheese mixture over all the layers.
- Chill (Minimum 4 hours)
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully! Serve chilled, and watch it disappear in minutes.
How to Serve Red White & Blue Mixed Berry Yum Yum
This delightful dessert is best served chilled, allowing the creamy layers to showcase their full flavors. For presentation, cut into equal squares or rectangles and serve on a decorative platter. Garnish each piece with a sprig of mint or a sprinkle of extra berries to elevate the visual appeal. This dessert pairs perfectly with a glass of sparkling lemonade or a light white wine, enhancing the fresh and fruity flavors. Ideal for summer barbecues and holiday gatherings, it adds a festive touch to any occasion.
How to Store Red White & Blue Mixed Berry Yum Yum
After your get-together, store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covering the dish with plastic wrap or transferring them to an airtight container. It can be safely stored for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, cut it into squares, place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving. To maintain the dessert’s creamy texture, avoid reheating. As with any leftover, check for freshness by inspecting the smell and appearance before serving again.
Tips to Make Red White & Blue Mixed Berry Yum Yum
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Alternative Sweeteners: For a healthier twist, consider using a sugar substitute in place of powdered sugar.
- Even Layering: Use the back of a spoon to spread the cream cheese mixture evenly for a polished look.
- Use Variations: Experiment with raspberries or blackberries if you prefer different berries.
- Batch Preparation: Make multiple dishes at once for larger gatherings; just increase each ingredient proportionally.
- Pre-cut Berries: Dice the berries just before layering to ensure freshness.
- Extra Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice to the cream cheese mixture for a zesty kick.
- Graham Cracker Substitutes: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free cookie crumbs.
- Presentation Platter: Use a fancy dish for serving to enhance the festive vibe.
- Leftover Transformation: Turn extras into parfaits by layering the dessert components into individual cups.
Variations
- Vegan Berry Yum Yum: Swap cream cheese with a block of vegan cream cheese and use coconut whipped cream instead of traditional whipped topping. Delightfully rich and plant-based!
- Chocolate Berry Indulgence: Drizzle some chocolate sauce between the layers for a delicious twist, adding a whole new depth of flavor that complements the berries beautifully.
- Low-Carb Berry Bliss: Use almond flour mixed with melted butter for the crust and a sugar alternative in the cream cheese mixture for a guilt-free treat.
- Tropical Delight: Incorporate diced mango and shredded coconut into the layers for a refreshing tropical version that brings a taste of the beach to your table.
- Spiced Berry Yum Yum: Add a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg to the cream cheese mixture for a cozy, spiced flavor perfect for fall gatherings.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dessert is perfect for making a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully as it chills, making it an ideal make-ahead treat.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly. Enjoy within 3 days for the best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze it! Cut into squares, store in a freezer-safe container, and it will last for about 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use mascarpone cheese for a creamier texture or a dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan option.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
To keep the graham cracker crust crispy, consider lightly toasting the crumbs before mixing them with melted butter for a firmer base.
Is this gluten-free?
This recipe is not gluten-free as it contains graham cracker crumbs. However, you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free cookie crumbs instead.
Can I double/halve this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to adjust the ingredients according to your serving needs. Double it for a crowd or halve it for a smaller dessert.
What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch dish?
You can use any similar-sized baking dish; just keep an eye on the layering to ensure even distribution for proper assembly.
Red White & Blue Mixed Berry Yum Yum
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Gently fold in the whipped topping until fully combined with the cream cheese mixture.
- In a 9x13 inch dish, layer half of the graham cracker crumbs evenly across the bottom.
- Spread a layer of the cream cheese mixture on top, using a spatula for even distribution.
- Layer the sliced strawberries over the cream cheese mixture, pressing them down lightly.
- Add another layer of the cream cheese mixture on top of the strawberries.
- Sprinkle the remaining graham cracker crumbs on top, followed by a generous layer of blueberries.
- Smooth out the remaining cream cheese mixture over all the layers.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.