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Easy Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake Recipe

easy strawberry shortcake icebox cake - featured image

A no-bake, effortless dessert made with graham crackers, fresh strawberries, and homemade whipped cream. Perfect for summer entertaining, this icebox cake softens into a tender, cake-like texture after chilling overnight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 full sleeves graham crackers (about 1820 full sheets)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/3 cup (40 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 pound (450 grams) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • Optional: extra sliced strawberries, fresh mint leaves, or powdered sugar for garnish

Instructions

  1. Whip the cream: Pour cold heavy cream into a chilled mixing bowl. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form (about 2-3 minutes), then continue beating for 30-60 seconds until stiff peaks hold their shape. Be careful not to over-whip.
  2. Prepare the strawberries: Rinse, hull, and slice strawberries into even pieces about 1/4-inch thick. If berries are not sweet, toss with a teaspoon of sugar and let sit while assembling.
  3. Layer one – crackers: Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish or 9×5-inch loaf pan. Arrange a single layer of graham crackers on top, breaking pieces as needed to cover the surface completely.
  4. Layer two – cream and berries: Spread about 1/3 of the remaining whipped cream evenly over the crackers. Top with a single layer of sliced strawberries (about 1/4 cup).
  5. Repeat layers: Add another layer of graham crackers, then another 1/3 of the cream, then more strawberries. Repeat one more time with crackers, cream, and strawberries, ending with a final layer of whipped cream on top.
  6. Finish and chill: Smooth the top layer of cream with a spatula. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best.
  7. Serve: Remove from fridge. If using a loaf pan, run a knife around edges and invert onto a serving plate. For square dish, scoop out portions. Top with fresh strawberries and mint if desired.

Notes

Keep cream very cold for best whipping. Don’t rush chilling time—overnight is best for proper texture. Use fresh strawberries, not frozen, to avoid sogginess. Don’t over-layer strawberries; a thin layer prevents excess moisture.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, icebox cake, no-bake dessert, summer dessert, graham cracker dessert, easy dessert