Description

Looking for a dessert that’s as dazzling as a 4th of July fireworks show and perfect for summer celebrations? This Red White & Blue Mixed Berry Yum Yum is your ultimate treat! With a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy whipped cream cheese layers, and vibrant strawberry and blueberry pie fillings, it’s a no-bake dessert bursting with patriotic colors.

Ingredients

Scale

A Red White & Blue Mixed Berry Yum Yum needs simple ingredients for a 9×13-inch dish (serves 12-16). Here’s what you’ll need:

Graham Cracker Crust:
- 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs
- 12 tbsp (¾ cup) unsalted butter, melted
- Why it matters: Graham crumbs create a crunchy base; butter binds it for a firm crust.
- Substitutions: Use crushed vanilla wafers or Golden Oreos (about 3 cups crumbs). Swap butter for coconut oil (dairy-free). Add 2 tbsp red, white, and blue sprinkles for extra patriotism.
Cream Cheese Mixture:
- 2 (8 oz) packages cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
- 4 cups whipping cream (or 2 (8 oz) containers Cool Whip)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract, divided
- 6 tbsp granulated sugar
- Why it matters: Cream cheese adds richness; whipped cream makes it light and fluffy; sugars and vanilla enhance sweetness and flavor.
- Substitutions: Use low-fat or dairy-free cream cheese. Swap whipping cream for Cool Whip (as noted). Use powdered sugar (same amount) for granulated in whipped cream for smoother texture.
Mixed Fruit Filling:
- 1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling
- 1 (21 oz) can blueberry pie filling
- Why it matters: Premium pie fillings provide juicy, vibrant red and blue layers for the patriotic theme.
- Substitutions: Use homemade fruit compote (cook 2 cups berries with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tsp cornstarch). Swap for cherry or raspberry filling for strawberry, or mixed berry for blueberry.

Tip: Use “premium” pie fillings for more berries, as noted. Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes for smooth mixing. Chill whipping cream and bowl for faster whipping. Reserve crumbs precisely for a neat topping.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a medium bowl, combine 2 ½ cups graham cracker crumbs and 12 tbsp melted unsalted butter. Stir with a fork until crumbs are evenly moistened.
Set aside 3 tbsp crumbs for topping.
Press the remaining crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan sprayed with non-stick cooking spray, using a spatula or the bottom of a glass.
Refrigerate for 10-15 minutes to set while preparing the next layer.
- Tip: Crush graham crackers finely in a food processor or zip-top bag for a smooth crust. Press evenly to avoid gaps. Chill to firm up quickly.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream 2 (8 oz) packages softened cream cheese, 1 cup confectioners’ sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract until smooth (about 2 minutes).
In a separate chilled bowl, whip 4 cups whipping cream, 6 tbsp granulated sugar, and 1 tsp vanilla extract with a hand mixer on medium-high until stiff peaks form (about 3-4 minutes).
Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture by hand until well combined and fluffy.
- Tip: Scrape the bowl to ensure no cream cheese lumps. Fold gently to keep the mixture airy. Use Cool Whip for a quicker option, as noted.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

Spread ⅓ of the cream cheese/whipped cream mixture (about 3 cups) evenly over the chilled crust using a spatula.
Drop 1 (21 oz) can strawberry pie filling by large spoonfuls over the cream cheese layer. Gently spread to connect the dollops, covering the layer evenly.
Top the strawberry layer with another ⅓ of the cream cheese/whipped cream mixture (about 3 cups). Spread gently to cover completely.
Drop 1 (21 oz) can blueberry pie filling by large spoonfuls over the second cream cheese layer. Gently spread to connect the dollops, covering evenly.
Top the blueberry layer with the remaining ⅓ cream cheese/whipped cream mixture. Spread gently to cover completely.
Sprinkle the reserved 3 tbsp graham cracker crumbs over the top.
- Tip: Spread cream layers carefully to keep fruit layers distinct. Use an offset spatula for smooth layers. Work gently to avoid mixing colors.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (at least 8-12 hours) to set the layers.
Slice into 12-16 squares and serve chilled.
- Tip: Overnight chilling is key, as noted, to prevent layers from sliding. Wipe the knife between cuts for neat slices. Serve with extra berries or sprinkles for flair.