Raspberry Cream Layer Dessert is a luscious no-bake treat made with layers of buttery graham cracker crust, creamy filling, tart raspberry topping, and a whipped finish. It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for spring or summer gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dessert is a delightful balance of textures and flavors: a crunchy crust, smooth creamy layer, and fruity raspberry topping. It’s an excellent make-ahead dessert for parties, holidays, or casual get-togethers. The bright flavor of raspberries makes it especially appealing in warmer months, and it’s easy to prepare without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Graham cracker crumbs
Unsalted butter, melted
Cream cheese, softened
Powdered sugar
Whipped topping or whipped cream
Fresh or frozen raspberries
Raspberry gelatin (Jell-O)
Water (boiling and cold)

Directions

Prepare the Crust:
- Combine graham cracker crumbs with melted butter and press into the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish.
- Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next layer.
Make the Cream Layer:
- Beat the softened cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth.
- Fold in half of the whipped topping.
- Spread evenly over the chilled crust and return to refrigerator.
Prepare the Raspberry Layer:
- Dissolve raspberry gelatin in boiling water.
- Add cold water and mix well.
- Stir in raspberries (thawed if using frozen).
- Let the gelatin mixture cool slightly, then carefully pour over the cream layer.
- Refrigerate until fully set, about 3–4 hours.
Top and Serve:
- Spread remaining whipped topping over the gelatin layer.
- Chill again until ready to serve. Cut into squares.

Servings and Timing

Serves 12
Prep time: 25 minutes
Chill time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours 25 minutes

Variations

Use a shortbread crust or crushed vanilla wafers instead of graham crackers.
Swap raspberries for strawberries, blueberries, or mixed berries.
Add a layer of vanilla pudding between the cream cheese and gelatin layers.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves or white chocolate shavings for elegance.

Storage/Reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This dessert is best enjoyed chilled. It is not suitable for freezing as the gelatin texture may be affected.

FAQs

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used as long as it’s stabilized to hold its shape.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert and needs to chill before serving.

Can I use fresh raspberries in the gelatin layer?

Yes, fresh raspberries are ideal. If using frozen, thaw and drain before adding.

What if I don’t have gelatin?

You can use a fruit compote layer instead, though it will not set as firmly.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and coconut whipped topping for a lactose-free version.

Can I make this in individual cups?

Yes, layer the components in small jars or cups for single-serve portions.

What can I use instead of graham crackers?

Crushed digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or shortbread cookies all work well.

How do I ensure clean slices?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between each cut for neat squares.

Can I add a layer of fruit between the crust and cream?

Yes, fresh berries can be added for extra flavor and texture.

Does the dessert need to be covered while chilling?

Yes, covering helps prevent the cream layer from drying out and absorbs any fridge odors.

Conclusion

Raspberry Cream Layer Dessert is a light, fruity, and crowd-pleasing recipe that brings together creamy, crunchy, and fruity elements in a beautiful presentation. Whether served at a summer cook

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This raspberry cream layer dessert is light, fruity, and sweet, with layers of whipped cream, soft cake, raspberry jam, and fresh berries—a no-bake showstopper

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 15 min
Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

1 box vanilla cake or ladyfingers
1 1/2 cups raspberry jam
1 1/2 cups whipped cream or Cool Whip
1 cup fresh raspberries

1/4 cup crushed graham crackers (optional)

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Instructions

Layer cake pieces in a dish.
Spread raspberry jam over, then whipped cream.
Repeat layers and top with raspberries.
Sprinkle graham crumbs along the edge.

Chill for 2+ hours before serving.

Notes

You can use frozen raspberries—thaw and drain first.

Great as a make-ahead dessert.