Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 box (14.4 oz) graham crackers

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Ideas

I love making this Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake during the summer months when strawberries are at their peak. This no-bake dessert is incredibly easy to prepare, and the layers of creamy whipped topping between fresh strawberries and graham crackers create a refreshing treat that’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor, and it's a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal effort. Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy your festivities without a fuss!

Created by

Genevieve Porter

Last updated on 2026-02-02T00:17:35.842Z

Growing up, one of my favorite summer desserts was a classic strawberry shortcake, but I never thought to turn it into an icebox cake until recently. After experimenting with different combinations, I discovered that the whipped topping blends beautifully with the fresh strawberries, enhancing their natural sweetness. Plus, the graham crackers soften to a cake-like texture as they soak up the whipped cream!

To ensure the best results, I recommend letting the cake chill for at least four hours or overnight. This allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly. Using fresh, ripe strawberries is essential—they add a vibrant flavor and texture that's simply unmatched!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Layers of creamy whipped topping with fresh strawberries and graham crackers
No-bake and incredibly easy to assemble, perfect for hot days
A light and refreshing dessert that everyone will adore

The Importance of Fresh Strawberries

The quality of your strawberries significantly impacts the overall flavor of the Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake. Choosing ripe, sweet strawberries enhances the dessert, creating a harmonious balance with the creamy layers. Look for bright red berries that have a fresh aroma, and avoid any with bruises or soft spots. For the best taste, local strawberries in season are ideal, as they are often sweeter than those stored in transit for long periods.

If fresh strawberries are unavailable, consider using frozen strawberries. However, thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before use to prevent a soggy cake. Add a touch more powdered sugar to compensate for the tartness often found in frozen fruits. This substitution can keep the dessert vibrant and tasty even when the fresh produce isn't at its peak.

Mastering the Whipped Cream

When making the whipped cream, it’s important to start with chilled equipment. Always refrigerate your mixing bowl and beaters for about 15-20 minutes before use; cold tools help achieve that ideal stiff peak. Beat the cream on medium-high speed until glossy and thickened, but stop once the peaks hold their shape. Over-whipping can lead to graininess or even butter, so keep a close eye on the texture as you mix.

To enhance the flavor profile of your whipped cream, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon zest or a splash of almond extract alongside the vanilla. These small tweaks can create distinct variations in flavor that elevate the dish without complicating the preparation. Experimenting with extracts can bring a new twist to the classic combination of strawberries and cream.

Storing and Serving Your Icebox Cake

Once assembled, the Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake is best when given time to chill. Refrigerating it for at least four hours allows the graham crackers to soften and absorb the strawberry juices, creating a sumptuous consistency. For optimal flavor, however, letting it sit overnight can yield a more cohesive dish. Just be sure to cover it with plastic wrap to keep it fresh and prevent it from absorbing other fridge odors.

For serving, slice the cake with a sharp knife that has been dipped in warm water; this helps create clean edges without tearing. This dessert can be garnished with additional sliced strawberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a polished look. If you've made this ahead of time, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, maintaining its delightful flavor and texture.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake.

Ingredients

2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 box (14.4 oz) graham crackers

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you can start assembling the cake!

Instructions

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

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar. Allow them to sit for about 15 minutes to release their juices.

Make the Whipped Cream

In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, remaining powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.

Layer the Cake

In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of whipped cream, followed by a layer of graham crackers, and then a layer of strawberries. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with whipped cream on top.

Chill

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Once chilled, slice and serve your Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra pop of flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the strawberries. This will enhance their sweetness and balance the richness of the whipped cream.

Variations to Try

While the classic strawberry version is irresistible, consider swapping in other seasonal fruits like peaches, blueberries, or raspberries for a delightful twist. Each fruit brings its unique sweetness and acidity, allowing you to customize the dessert according to your preference. Just ensure that if you're using juicier fruits, you adjust the sugar content to balance out the flavors appropriately.

For a chocolate variation, you can incorporate layers of chocolate pudding between the graham crackers and whipped cream. It transforms the dessert into a decadent chocolate-strawberry delight that indulgent chocolate lovers will adore. Just use half the amount of whipped cream intended for the topping to maintain a proper balance of flavors.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

If your whipped cream isn’t thickening, ensure that your heavy cream is cold and your mixing bowl is chilled. If you've already started, you can try adding a bit more powdered sugar to help stabilize it. Additionally, incorporating a tablespoon of cornstarch can also help achieve the desired thickness if added early in the mixing process.

Should your cake show signs of becoming too soggy as it sits, consider layering the graham crackers with a touch of melted chocolate or a layer of plain yogurt. This barrier can help prevent the moisture from the strawberries from fully saturating the graham crackers, keeping each layer distinct and delightful for longer periods.

Scaling the Recipe

This Icebox Cake recipe can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger 12x18 inch pan. You may need to adjust chilling time, as a thicker cake can take longer to set. Check the consistency after about six hours or overnight to ensure optimal layering and flavor infusion.

If you're reducing the recipe for smaller gatherings, use a smaller dish, like an 8x8 inch pan, and cut the ingredients in half. Be mindful of chilling time as well, as smaller layers may set quicker. Adjust the assembly process so you still achieve the beautiful layered effect without compromising your dessert's integrity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them properly to avoid excess liquid in the cake.

→ How long can I store this cake?

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

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Certainly! Use gluten-free graham crackers as a substitute for regular ones.

→ What can I use instead of heavy whipping cream?

You can use a non-dairy whipped topping or coconut cream for a lighter version.