Strawberry Graham Dessert

(Courtesy of Taste of Home)

Ingredients:
1 c. graham cracker crumbs (about 16 squares)
2 Tbsp. butter, melted
1 pkg. (3 oz.) strawberry gelatin
1 c. boiling water
1 pkg. (16 oz.) frozen sweetened sliced strawberries, thawed
1 Tbsp. lemon juice
4 oz. cream cheese, softened
1/2 c. confectioners' sugar
1 tsp. vanilla extract
Dash salt
1 c. heavy whipping cream, whipped
Fresh strawberries and mint, optional


Directions:
In a small bowl, combine cracker crumbs and butter; set aside 1 Tbsp. for topping.  Press the remaining crumb mixture onto the bottom of a greased 8 inch square baking dish.  Bake at 325 degrees for 10-14 minutes or until golden brown.  Cool on a wire rack.


In a large bowl, dissolve gelatin in boiling water; stir in strawberries and lemon juice.  Refrigerate until partially set, about 1 1/2 hours.


In a small mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese, sugar, vanilla and salt until smooth.  Fold in the whipped cream.  Spread half over cooled crust.  Cover and refrigerate remaining cream mixture.  


Pour gelatin mixture over filling; refrigerate until firm.  Top with remaining cream mixture.  Sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture.  Refrigerate overnight.  Garnish with fresh berries and mint if desired.