If you’re looking for a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, the Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This vibrant and creamy treat combines the nostalgic crunch of graham cracker crust with fluffy cream cheese filling and fresh strawberries, all topped with a sprinkle of rainbow magic. Easy to prepare without turning on the oven, it’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or whenever you crave a whimsical slice of summertime joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step toward creating a dessert that bursts with texture, flavor, and color. Each one plays a unique role, from the silky cream cheese base to the delightful crunch of the crust and the fresh, juicy strawberries that brighten every bite.
- Graham cracker crumbs (about 1 ½ cups): Provides the perfect buttery, crunchy foundation for the cake.
- Butter, 1/2 cup, melted: Binds the crumbs together and adds rich flavor to the crust.
- Heavy cream, 2 cups: Whipped to stiff peaks for a light and airy cream layer.
- Cream cheese, 8 oz, softened: Gives the filling a smooth, tangy creaminess that balances the sweetness.
- Powdered sugar, 1 cup: Sweetens the filling perfectly without graininess.
- Vanilla extract, 1 tsp: Adds warmth and depth to the cream cheese mixture.
- Strawberries, 2 cups, chopped: Fresh fruit adds natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Rainbow-colored sprinkles, 1 cup (optional): Brings fun, festive pops of color reflecting the “unicorn” theme.
- Whipped topping, 1 cup (optional): For an extra layer of creaminess or decorative flair on serving.
How to Make Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by mixing the graham cracker crumbs with melted butter until each crumb is coated. This combination will become your cake’s crisp, flavorful base. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan, making sure it’s evenly spread so every bite has that satisfying crunch.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is silky smooth. This ensures your filling will be creamy and sweet with a hint of vanilla that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Step 3: Whip the Heavy Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. This process adds lightness and volume, transforming the filling into a fluffy dream. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep the texture tender and airy.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake Layers
Spread the cream cheese and whipped cream mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Smooth it out to create a flawless canvas for the strawberry layer. Next, scatter the chopped strawberries over the top, adding freshness and a pop of natural red that turns every slice into a work of art.
Step 5: Add the Unicorn Touch
For that extra magical twist, sprinkle rainbow-colored sprinkles all over the strawberry layer. These little bursts of color bring the cake to life, making it as whimsical as it is delicious. After assembling, cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, so the flavors meld and the cake sets perfectly.
How to Serve Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your cake presentation with a dollop of whipped topping or a fresh strawberry sliced in half perched on each serving. You can also add edible flowers or a dusting of powdered sugar for that elegant finish that guests will love.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a light fruit salad or a refreshing glass of lemonade. Keeping sides simple lets the Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake Recipe shine as the centerpiece of any dessert table.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your cake in individual clear parfait glasses for a pretty, layered effect, or cut it into fun shapes using cookie cutters for a playful twist. Adding colorful straws or spoons that match the sprinkles can make this dessert even more festive for kids and adults alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or an airtight lid and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep the crust crisp and the cream filling fresh and delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake for up to 1 month, but be sure to wrap it well with foil and plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving to maintain the perfect texture.
Reheating
This no-bake cake is best enjoyed cold, so no reheating is necessary. Just slice and serve straight from the fridge for full refreshment and delight.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Absolutely! Blueberries, raspberries, or sliced peaches all make delicious variations. Just make sure the fruit is fresh and chopped appropriately for the best layering effect.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, by using dairy-free cream cheese, whipped topping, and cream alternatives, you can enjoy this cake without dairy. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still wonderful.
How long does the cake need to chill before serving?
To let all the layers set well and flavors meld, refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, though overnight chilling produces the best results.
Can I make this cake in smaller portions?
Definitely! Simply divide the ingredients accordingly and consider using smaller pans or individual serving dishes to create single portions or mini cakes.
What’s the best way to keep the graham cracker crust crunchy?
Avoid adding wet ingredients directly to the crust. Press the crust firmly and refrigerate the assembled cake promptly. Cutting the cake with a sharp knife helps maintain the crust’s texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake Recipe – it’s simple to make, delightfully colorful, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re stirring up a last-minute dessert or planning ahead for a party, this recipe will bring smiles and happy tummies with every bite. Give it a try and watch your friends and family fall in love with this enchanting no-bake treat!
Print
Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Unicorn No-Bake Strawberry Split Cake is a whimsical and colorful dessert that combines a buttery graham cracker crust with a rich, creamy filling and fresh strawberries. Topped with rainbow sprinkles for a fun touch, this easy-to-make cake requires no baking and is perfect for parties or a delightful treat, setting beautifully in the refrigerator in just a few hours.
Ingredients
Crust
- 1 box of graham cracker crumbs (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups heavy cream
Toppings
- 2 cups strawberries, chopped
- 1 cup rainbow-colored sprinkles (optional)
- 1 cup whipped topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs with the melted butter. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan to create an even crust layer.
- Make the cream cheese mixture: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Whip the cream: In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, ensuring it is light and fluffy for folding.
- Combine mixtures: Gently fold the whipped heavy cream into the cream cheese mixture, taking care to maintain the airy texture of the whipped cream.
- Assemble the filling: Spread the combined cream mixture evenly over the prepared graham cracker crust, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Add fruit layer: Sprinkle the chopped strawberries evenly over the cream layer to create a fresh, fruity topping.
- Add optional decorations: If desired, sprinkle the rainbow-colored sprinkles over the strawberries to add a vibrant, festive appearance.
- Chill to set: Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow it to firm up and fully set.
- Serve and enjoy: Cut the cake into 12 servings and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute the heavy cream with whipped topping if preferred, but heavy cream provides a richer taste.
- For a different flavor, you can layer other fruits such as blueberries or raspberries instead of strawberries.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature for a smooth filling.
- Press the crust firmly to prevent it from crumbling when serving.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator covered tightly to maintain freshness for up to 3 days.
