Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups of heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup of powdered sugar; 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract; 1 pound of fresh strawberries, sliced; 24 to 30 ladyfingers

Highlighted under: Dessert Haven

I love making Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake, especially during the summer months. This no-bake dessert comes together effortlessly and is perfect for gatherings with friends and family. The combination of fluffy whipped cream, sweet strawberries, and soft ladyfingers create a delightful treat that is sure to impress. Not only is it visually appealing, but it's also incredibly delicious and refreshing, making it a go-to recipe that I keep returning to. It’s a dessert that celebrates simple, fresh ingredients and endless summer flavors.

Created by

Margaret Hill

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:40:36.830Z

My love for Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake began on a warm summer afternoon when I first tried it at a picnic. The layers of strawberries and cream just sang with the season's bounty. I decided to recreate that joy in my kitchen, and it has since become a staple of my summer celebrations.

One tip I learned is to let the cake chill for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the ladyfingers absorb the cream, resulting in a luscious, sliceable dessert. Trust me, the wait is worth it!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Layers of fresh strawberries and whipped cream create a heavenly bite
No-bake and easy to assemble, perfect for hot days
Impressive and beautiful, great for any occasion

The Role of Fresh Ingredients

In a dessert as simple as the Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake, the quality of the ingredients makes all the difference. Fresh strawberries, when in season, provide a natural sweetness and vibrant flavor that can elevate the entire dish. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and fragrant, as these are usually the sweetest. If fresh strawberries aren't available, consider using frozen berries, but remember to thaw and drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could make the cake soggy.

Heavy whipping cream is another key player in achieving that light, airy texture. When whipping, make sure the cream is very cold—chilling your mixing bowl ahead of time can help achieve the best results. You'll know it's ready once it forms soft peaks that gently hold their shape. If you're short on time, you can substitute with whipped topping, but homemade whipped cream truly enhances the overall flavor and texture of this cake.

Layering Techniques

Proper layering is essential for achieving that stunning presentation and delightful texture. When dipping the ladyfingers in water, do it quickly; if left too long, they'll become overly soggy and won't hold up. A rapid dip on each side is sufficient to ensure they absorb just the right amount of moisture while still maintaining some structure. This delicate balance is what gives the cake its appealing texture, seamlessly blending the creamy and fruity layers with the ladyfingers.

While the traditional recipe includes just strawberries, feel free to experiment by adding layers of other fruits like blueberries or peaches for added flavor and color. This variation will not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide different taste experiences with each bite. Keep in mind that the overall balance between fruit and cream is key, so adjust your layering accordingly to maintain harmony in flavors.

Serving and Storage Tips

Chilling the cake is crucial for the flavors to meld beautifully, and I recommend allowing it to sit overnight in the refrigerator. This not only improves the overall taste but also makes the layers easier to cut and serve. If you're in a hurry, a minimum of 6 hours will still yield a delightful dessert, but the longer you wait, the better the result. Just be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap to avoid any absorption of odors from the fridge.

When it comes to serving, consider garnishing with additional fresh strawberries on top, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance. The cake can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep or a make-ahead dessert for gatherings. Unfortunately, this cake does not freeze well due to the cream, so plan to enjoy it fresh within a few days for the best texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake:

For the Cake

2 cups of heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup of powdered sugar
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
1 pound of fresh strawberries, sliced
24 to 30 ladyfingers

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to create this delicious dessert!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake:

Prepare the Whipped Cream

In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip with an electric mixer until soft peaks form. Set aside.

Layer the Ingredients

Begin by spreading a thin layer of whipped cream at the bottom of a 9x13 inch dish. Dip each ladyfinger quickly into water and layer them over the cream. Top with a layer of sliced strawberries.

Repeat the Layers

Continue layering whipped cream, ladyfingers, and strawberries until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.

Chill the Cake

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best results.

Serve and Enjoy

Once chilled, slice the cake and serve it with fresh strawberries on top. Enjoy!

And there you have it! A deliciously simple dessert ready to impress.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, mix in some lemon zest to the whipped cream. It adds a refreshing touch that complements the strawberries perfectly.

Variations to Try

If you're looking to change things up, consider a chocolate variation by incorporating cocoa powder into your whipped cream or using chocolate-flavored ladyfingers. This simple switch adds an exciting depth to the dessert, creating a delightful contrast with the strawberries. You could even layer in chocolate sauce between the layers for a decadent twist.

For a more tropical flair, substitute the strawberries with mango or pineapple. Do note that these fruits have a different water content, so keep an eye on the layers to prevent any excess moisture. Enhancing the whipped cream with coconut extract can further complement these fruit choices and provide a refreshing finish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

A common issue when making this cake can be a runny whipped cream, often due to over-whipping. Pay attention to the consistency; stop beating once you see soft peaks forming. If you accidentally whip it too far, gently fold in a bit more cream to lighten it back up. Alternatively, you can use cornstarch or instant pudding mix to stabilize the whipped cream if you're worried about it deflating quickly.

If your layers are collapsing or the cake feels too soggy, consider reducing the soaking time for the ladyfingers. Remember, these components should complement each other without becoming overly wet. Adjusting the balance between the cream and fruits can help you achieve the right texture, resulting in a beautifully layered dessert that holds together nicely.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.

→ How long can I store the icebox cake?

The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it's best enjoyed within the first two days for optimal texture.

→ Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can find gluten-free ladyfingers at specialty stores or online to make it gluten-free.

→ Is it necessary to chill the cake overnight?

While it is not strictly necessary, chilling the cake overnight allows the flavors to develop and the texture to improve significantly.