01 -
Beat softened cream cheese in a stand mixer with the paddle attachment until it's silky smooth. Toss in the powdered sugar and mix until it's blended well.
02 -
Scrape the sides of your bowl to get everything mixed in. Set the mixer to a low setting and pour in 1 cup of cream, blending everything together. Slowly add the remaining 2 cups of cream, then increase the speed until it starts getting fluffy with soft peaks. Gently fold in the vanilla and lemon zest.
03 -
Drop about 1/4 cup of the cream mixture into a square 9-by-9 pan, then spread it flat into a thin layer to cover the bottom.
04 -
Lay down the graham crackers to cover the base, breaking any pieces to fit snugly. Spread 1 1/2 cups of the whipped cream mixture on top and smooth it out. Add a layer of 1 1/2 cups of sliced strawberries over that, and sprinkle on about 1/4 cup of almonds if you want.
05 -
Repeat the same process again with graham crackers, whipped cream, sliced strawberries, and almonds.
06 -
Spread a final layer of graham crackers, whipped cream, and strawberries to complete your dessert.
07 -
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and stick it in the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours, or let it sit overnight.