If you’re searching for a show-stopping dessert that combines the lusciousness of strawberries with the creamy indulgence of cheesecake, look no further. These Heavenly Strawberry Cheesecake Trifles are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more. With layers of homemade sweetened condensed milk, fresh strawberry puree, and a delightful cookie crumble, these trifles are a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create these delectable delights.

Ingredients

For the Cheesecake Layer:

• 1 recipe homemade sweetened condensed milk (recipe below) or 1 14 oz can store-bought sweetened condensed milk
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 16 oz heavy cream

For the Strawberry Layer:

• Approximately 2 quarts fresh strawberries, washed and hulled, plus extra whole strawberries for garnish
• 1-2 Tbl sugar

For the Cookie Layer:

• Half box gluten-free vanilla wafers, such as Kinnikinnick brand
• 3 Tbl unsalted butter, melted

Homemade Sweetened Condensed Milk:

• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 1/3 cups Better Batter Corn-Free Powdered Sugar, sifted
• 10 Tbl unsalted butter
• 4 tsp vanilla

Instructions

1. Begin by making the homemade sweetened condensed milk. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the milk and sifted powdered sugar until the mixture comes to a light boil.
2. Add the butter pieces and stir to combine. Reduce the heat to barely a simmer and cook for 2 hours, stirring every 15-20 minutes. Be sure to keep the heat low to prevent burning.
3. After the mixture has thickened substantially and reduced to about half the original amount, remove it from the heat. Add the vanilla and whisk to incorporate. Let it cool.
4. While the sweetened condensed milk is cooking, prepare the strawberry layer. Use a food processor to puree approximately 2 quarts of fresh strawberries. Transfer the puree to a bowl and add 1-2 tablespoons of sugar. Stir well and set aside.
5. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream using a stand mixer or handheld mixer on high speed until stiff peaks form. Set it aside.
6. Next, make the cookie layer by processing the vanilla wafers in a food processor until they are broken down into crumbs. Add the melted butter and process well to combine.
7. Once the sweetened condensed milk has cooled, beat it together with the softened cream cheese in a large bowl using a handheld mixer or a stand mixer. Fold in the whipped cream until fully incorporated. Spoon the cheesecake mixture into a large zip-top bag for easy assembly.
8. Now it’s time to assemble the trifles. Use 8 oz drinking glasses or any clear glass containers of your choice. Begin by spreading 2 teaspoons of cookie crumbs in the bottom of each glass.
9. Pipe a layer of the cheesecake filling onto the cookie crumbs, followed by 2 heaping tablespoonfuls of the strawberry puree.
10. Repeat the layers once more, ending with a final layer of cheesecake filling and a sprinkle of cookie crumbs. For an elegant touch, garnish each trifle with a whole strawberry.
11. Keep the trifles refrigerated until you are ready to serve them. These delightful desserts can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment.

Conclusion

Indulge in the exquisite combination of creamy cheesecake, sweet strawberries, and buttery cookie crumbs with these Heavenly Strawberry Cheesecake Trifles. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, these trifles are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The layers of flavors and textures create a harmonious dessert experience that will leave you and your guests utterly satisfied. So grab a spoon, dig into these delightful trifles, and savor each heavenly bite. Enjoy!