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Easy No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake Recipe

no-bake strawberry shortcake icebox cake - featured image

A simple, layered no-bake dessert made with graham crackers, fresh strawberries, and a creamy filling. Perfect for hot summer days when you want a cold, sweet treat without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 1/2 boxes (about 2730 sheets) graham crackers
  • Extra fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish, optional)
  • Mint sprigs (for garnish, optional)
  • Whipped cream rosettes (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Stir gently and let sit for 15-20 minutes to macerate.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and fluffy, about 2 minutes. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beat until combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, pour in cold heavy cream. Mix on low speed, then increase to medium-high and whip until stiff peaks form, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture gently with a spatula until no white streaks remain.
  5. Spread a thin layer (about 1/2 cup) of the cream mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish. Arrange a single layer of graham crackers over the cream, breaking pieces as needed.
  6. Spread about one-third of the remaining cream mixture over the graham crackers. Spoon about one-third of the macerated strawberries (with juices) over the cream.
  7. Repeat layering two more times: graham crackers, cream, strawberries. End with a final layer of graham crackers. Spread the last of the cream mixture over the top, covering completely.
  8. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
  9. Just before serving, garnish with fresh sliced strawberries and mint sprigs if desired. Slice into squares and serve cold.

Notes

Don’t skip macerating the strawberries; it creates the syrup that softens the graham crackers. For best results, chill the cake overnight. Use a serrated knife for clean slices. Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

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