Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 6 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 24 ladyfinger cookies

Highlighted under: Artisan Bakery Recipes

Enjoy a refreshing twist on a classic dessert with this Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake. Perfect for warm days, this no-bake cake features layers of fluffy whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and sweet ladyfingers.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T08:42:16.946Z

This Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. Layered with fresh strawberries and whipped cream, it’s the perfect dessert for any gathering.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Light and refreshing with a burst of strawberry flavor
No baking required – just assemble and chill!
Perfectly sweet, making it a favorite for all ages

      

A Refreshing Summer Delight

Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake is the perfect dessert to enjoy during the warm summer months. Its light texture and refreshing flavors make it a delightful treat for gatherings, picnics, or simply a quiet evening at home. The combination of fresh strawberries and fluffy whipped cream creates a taste sensation that is both comforting and invigorating, making it a favorite among both kids and adults alike.

One of the best aspects of this cake is its no-bake nature. With just a few simple steps, you can assemble a stunning dessert without ever turning on the oven. This feature not only saves time but also keeps your kitchen cool, which is a big plus during hot days. Just prepare the ingredients, layer them up, and let the refrigerator do the rest!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it's a birthday party, a summer barbecue, or a holiday gathering, this Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake fits right in. Its vibrant colors and elegant presentation make it a showstopper on any dessert table. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the company of your guests rather than spending the entire day in the kitchen.

You can also customize this cake to suit various dietary preferences. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the ladyfingers for gluten-free alternatives, and you can still enjoy the same delightful flavors. This versatility ensures that everyone can indulge in this delightful dessert without worry.

Tips for the Best Icebox Cake

To achieve the best results with your Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake, selecting ripe, juicy strawberries is key. Look for strawberries that are bright red and fragrant for maximum flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you can substitute them with other berries like blueberries or raspberries, which will provide a similar refreshing taste.

Additionally, make sure your whipping cream is chilled before whipping. This helps achieve the perfect stiff peaks and ensures a light and airy texture in the final cake. If you're looking for an extra touch, consider adding a layer of lemon curd or chocolate ganache between the layers for a delightful twist.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
24 ladyfinger cookies

Make sure to use fresh strawberries for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberries

In a bowl, toss the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar and set aside to macerate for about 10 minutes.

Whip the Cream

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

Assemble the Cake

Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with plastic wrap. Start by layering ladyfingers at the bottom, followed by a layer of whipped cream and a layer of strawberries. Repeat until the pan is full, finishing with a layer of whipped cream.

Chill the Cake

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.

Serve

Once set, carefully invert the cake onto a serving platter and remove the plastic wrap. Slice and serve chilled.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake!

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just remember that the ladyfingers may become softer over time, so it's ideal to enjoy it within the first couple of days for the best texture.

When serving, consider garnishing with additional strawberries or a sprig of mint to enhance its visual appeal. A drizzle of chocolate sauce or a sprinkle of crushed nuts can also add an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is delicious as is, you can easily adapt it to create your own unique versions. For a tropical twist, replace the strawberries with mango and add a hint of coconut in the whipped cream. This will transport you to a sunny beach paradise with every bite.

You can also experiment by adding a layer of cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor or incorporating different flavored extracts like almond or coconut for a unique taste. The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

→ What if I can't find ladyfinger cookies?

You can substitute with sponge cake or even graham crackers if necessary.

→ How long can I store leftover cake?

Leftover cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

While fresh strawberries are recommended, you can use frozen strawberries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained well before using.