Chilled layers of whipped cream, graham crackers and strawberries for an easy, festive make-ahead summer centerpiece.
# What You'll Need:
→ Dairy & Cream
01 - 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
02 - 1/4 cup powdered (confectioners') sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
→ Cookies & Base
04 - 1 14-ounce box graham crackers
→ Fruit
05 - 1.5 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
→ Optional Garnish
06 - 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
07 - Fresh mint leaves for garnish
# How to Make It:
01 - Chill the mixing bowl and beaters briefly. In a large chilled bowl, whip 2 cups cold heavy cream with 1/4 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form; do not overwhip.
02 - Spread a thin, even layer of whipped cream over the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to prevent the crackers from sliding.
03 - Place a single layer of graham crackers over the cream, breaking pieces as needed to cover the surface with minimal gaps.
04 - Spread one-third of the remaining whipped cream over the crackers, then scatter one-third of the sliced strawberries in an even layer.
05 - Repeat the sequence twice more: graham crackers, whipped cream, and strawberries, finishing with a final layer of whipped cream and arranged strawberries on top.
06 - For a festive presentation, scatter blueberries over the top and tuck mint leaves between berries as desired.
07 - Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the crackers to soften and the layers to meld for clean slicing.
08 - Using a sharp knife, slice chilled portions carefully for clean layers and serve cold.
