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Perfect No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake: Easy Summer Dessert

strawberry shortcake icebox cake - featured image

This no-bake strawberry shortcake icebox cake layers creamy whipped topping, sweet macerated strawberries, and softened graham crackers for a magical summer dessert. It’s simple enough for a Tuesday night and impressive enough for a dinner party.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 box (about 14 ounces) graham crackers (about 3 sleeves)
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced (for garnish)
  • Mint sprigs (optional, for garnish)
  • White chocolate shavings (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Macerate the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Stir gently to coat. Let sit for 15-20 minutes while you prepare the cream.
  2. Prepare the cream cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy, about 1 minute.
  3. Whip the cream: Add the cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl with the cream cheese. Start mixing on low speed, then gradually increase to medium-high. Whip until stiff peaks form.
  4. Layer the bottom: Spread a thin layer of the whipped cream mixture (about 1/2 cup) on the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
  5. First layer of graham crackers: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers on top of the cream, breaking them as needed to fit.
  6. First layer of strawberries: Spoon about one-third of the macerated strawberries (including the juice) evenly over the graham crackers.
  7. First cream layer: Spread about one-third of the remaining whipped cream over the strawberries.
  8. Repeat the layers: Add another layer of graham crackers, followed by another third of the strawberries, and another third of the cream. Repeat one more time. You should have three layers of graham crackers, three layers of strawberries, and three layers of cream. The top layer should be cream.
  9. Finish the top: Spread the remaining cream evenly over the top. Arrange the reserved sliced strawberries on top. Add mint sprigs or white chocolate shavings if desired.
  10. Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best.

Notes

Don’t skip macerating the strawberries. Use cold cream and a cold bowl for fluffiest whipped cream. Don’t overwhip the cream. Let it chill overnight for best texture. Use a sharp knife to slice cleanly.

Nutrition

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