Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; ½ cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 sleeve graham crackers; Optional: fresh mint for garnish

Highlighted under: Baker’s Delight

I absolutely love making Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake, especially during the warmer months. This no-bake dessert is refreshing and features layers of whipped cream, sweet strawberries, and soft cake. It's a crowd-pleaser at gatherings, and I often prepare it ahead of time, which makes serving a breeze. The combination of flavors and textures is heavenly, and it's a delightful treat that cools you down while satisfying your sweet tooth. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe handy all summer long!

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-02-01T15:13:36.378Z

When I first made this Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I layered freshly sliced strawberries between graham crackers and whipped cream, and it just transformed overnight in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a symphony of taste that is both fruity and creamy.

One specific tip I discovered is to let the cake chill for several hours, or even overnight. This ensures the graham crackers absorb the cream, softening perfectly to create a cake-like texture. It’s truly a dessert that impresses with minimal effort, and I can never get enough of it!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Fresh strawberries bursting with flavor in every bite
Lighter, no-bake dessert that's perfect for summer gatherings
Beautiful presentation that will wow your guests

The Role of Fresh Strawberries

The use of fresh strawberries in this recipe is essential for achieving a burst of flavor and natural sweetness. When selecting strawberries, opt for those that are deeply colored and fragrant. I recommend looking for medium to large berries, as they’ll hold up better when sliced and layered. If you want to enhance their flavor, consider macerating the slices with the powdered sugar a bit longer, allowing up to 30 minutes. This step not only draws out the juices but also enhances the fruit's sweetness.

Strawberries are particularly juicy and flavorful in late spring and summer, making this the perfect seasonal dessert. If you cannot find fresh strawberries, frozen ones can be a good alternative; just ensure they are thawed and drained to prevent excess liquid from seeping into the cake layers. However, fresh strawberries will deliver a superior textural contrast, while frozen might result in a slightly softer overall cake.

Whipped Cream Mastery

Properly whipping the cream is crucial for this icebox cake. Aim for soft peaks, as this provides a smoother texture that will blend well with the strawberries and graham crackers. Using cold cream straight from the fridge can significantly improve the whipping process, so I advise chilling your mixing bowl beforehand. If you accidentally overwhip the cream and it becomes too stiff, you can gently fold in a bit more fresh cream to bring it back to the desired consistency.

For those who prefer a sweeter whipped cream, adjust the powdered sugar to taste but be careful not to overpower the delicate flavor of the strawberries. You can also experiment with flavored extracts, such as almond or lemon, to add a different twist to the cream, enhancing the overall profile of your cake with minimal effort.

Assembling and Storing the Cake

When assembling your Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake, layering is key. Start with a single layer of graham crackers, ensuring they are not overly spaced apart for a more cohesive structure. As you layer, you might find it helpful to use a spatula to smooth the whipped cream and evenly distribute the strawberry mixture. This will create a visually appealing cake that holds together well upon slicing.

For make-ahead options, this dessert is ideal as it can be prepared up to 48 hours in advance. If stored properly, the cake will maintain its integrity in the refrigerator. Always cover it with plastic wrap to prevent it from absorbing any odors. I recommend allowing the cake to chill overnight for optimal flavor infusion, as the graham crackers will soften beautifully and meld with the strawberries and cream.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious dessert:

Ingredients

2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 sleeve graham crackers
Optional: fresh mint for garnish

With these ingredients ready, we can start assembling the cake!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake:

Prepare the strawberries

Wash and slice the strawberries, setting aside a few for garnish. Mix the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release their juices.

Make the whipped cream

In a mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Beat with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.

Assemble the cake

In a rectangular dish, lay down a single layer of graham crackers. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the crackers, followed by a layer of strawberry mixture. Repeat this process until you've used all the ingredients, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.

Chill the cake

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to develop and the crackers to soften.

Serve

Once chilled, slice the cake into squares, garnish with reserved strawberries and mint leaves, then serve immediately.

Enjoy this delightful icebox cake at your next gathering!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can mix in some lemon zest into the whipped cream or add a layer of chocolate ganache.

Serving Suggestions

This Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake is truly versatile when it comes to serving. For a beautiful presentation, slice the cake into squares and plate them individually. Drizzling each slice with a homemade strawberry sauce can elevate the dessert, adding an extra layer of flavor that echoes the cake's main ingredient. A dollop of additional whipped cream on top can provide a lovely finishing touch.

If you’re looking to add a crunch element, consider garnishing your slices with crushed graham crackers or slivered almonds. Either option contrasts nicely with the smooth whipped cream and the juicy strawberries, creating a delightful texture combination that your guests will appreciate.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this recipe based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers or another suitable cake alternative, such as gluten-free ladyfingers. Additionally, you can replace the strawberries with other seasonal fruits like peaches, blueberries, or raspberries, ensuring you adjust the sugar level if the fruit is particularly sweet or tart.

For an even richer flavor profile, consider layering in some citrus zest, like lemon or lime, into the whipped cream. This brightens the overall dessert and complements the strawberries beautifully. You could also add a splash of liqueur, such as limoncello or amaretto, to the strawberry mixture for an adult twist that will intrigue your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

→ How long can I keep the cake in the fridge?

The cake can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

→ Can I replace the graham crackers?

Absolutely! You can use vanilla wafers or even pound cake as a substitute.

→ Is there a way to make it dairy-free?

Yes, you can use coconut cream and dairy-free whipped topping for a dairy-free version.