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Easy No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake - featured image

A simple, no-bake dessert made with layers of graham crackers, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. Perfect for summer when you don’t want to turn on the oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 sleeves (about 24 full sheets) graham crackers
  • 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, divided
  • 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream (at least 36% milk fat)
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Macerate the strawberries: In a large bowl, combine sliced strawberries, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Toss gently and let sit for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until strawberries release their juices.
  2. Whip the cream: In a separate large chilled bowl, combine cold heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer on medium-high speed, whip until soft peaks form (about 5 minutes). Do not over-whip.
  3. Layer the base: Spread a thin, even layer of whipped cream on the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish.
  4. First layer of crackers: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers over the cream, breaking as needed to fit snugly.
  5. Add strawberries and cream: Spoon about one-third of the macerated strawberries (including syrup) over the crackers. Dollop about one-third of the whipped cream on top and spread gently.
  6. Repeat layers: Repeat the process (crackers, strawberries, cream) for 3 to 4 total layers, ending with a final layer of whipped cream on top.
  7. Top with strawberries: Reserve a handful of prettiest strawberry slices and arrange on top of the final cream layer.
  8. Chill: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, ideally 24 hours, until graham crackers soften into a cake-like texture.
  9. Serve: Slice into squares with a sharp knife, wiping blade clean between cuts. Serve cold straight from the fridge.

Notes

For best results, chill the cake for the full 24 hours. The graham crackers will soften into a tender, cake-like texture. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them first. The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.

Nutrition

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