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- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced - 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream - ½ cup powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract - 12-15 graham crackers - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon To make a Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake, you need fresh strawberries. Choose ripe, sweet ones for the best flavor. You will also use heavy whipping cream. It gives the cake a light and creamy texture. Next, powdered sugar sweetens the whipped cream and cream cheese mixture. You will add vanilla extract for a lovely aroma. Graham crackers create a crunchy layer that balances the creaminess. Cream cheese adds richness to the cake. Mix it with lemon juice and zest for a bright flavor. These ingredients work together to craft a dessert that is both fresh and delicious. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, you need to macerate the strawberries. This means letting them sit with sugar to release their juice. - In a medium bowl, combine: - 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced - ½ cup powdered sugar Mix the strawberries gently and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. This step makes the strawberries sweet and juicy. Next, we whip the cream. This gives our cake a light, fluffy texture. - In a large bowl, beat: - 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream - ½ cup powdered sugar - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Whip until soft peaks form. This means the cream should hold its shape but still be smooth. Now, we make the cream cheese mixture. This adds a rich flavor to our cake. - In another bowl, combine: - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - Zest of 1 lemon Beat until smooth. Then, gently fold in one cup of the whipped cream. Mix until just combined. This keeps the mixture light. It's time to put everything together. This is where the fun begins! - Start with a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture at the bottom of an 8x8 inch dish. - Place a layer of graham crackers over the cream mixture. Break them to fit if needed. - Add another layer of the cream cheese mixture on top of the crackers. - Spread a layer of the macerated strawberries on top. Repeat these layers until you use all the ingredients. Finish with a layer of whipped cream on top. Chilling is important for the best flavor. It helps the cake set up nicely. - Cover the dish with plastic wrap. - Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best. This waiting time lets the flavors blend and makes each slice perfect. Choose strawberries that are bright red and firm. Look for fresh berries with a sweet smell. The green tops should be green and fresh, not wilted. Avoid any berries with bruises or soft spots. Store strawberries in the fridge in a paper towel-lined container. This helps absorb moisture and keeps them fresh longer. Whip the heavy cream until you see soft peaks. This means the cream holds its shape but is not too stiff. You can add a pinch of salt or a bit of lemon zest to enhance the flavor. For a fun twist, try adding different extracts like almond or mint. Just a few drops will change the taste in a delightful way. Garnish your cake with fresh mint leaves for a lovely touch. Mint adds a pop of color and freshness. I love to sprinkle a bit of lemon zest on top to brighten the flavors. When serving, use chilled dessert plates for an elegant look. You can also arrange extra strawberries around the cake for a beautiful display. Pro Tips Use Fresh Strawberries: Always opt for the freshest strawberries available for the best flavor and texture in your icebox cake. Chill Before Serving: Allow the cake to chill overnight; this helps the flavors meld and the cake to set properly. Customize the Cream: Feel free to add other flavorings, like almond extract or a splash of liqueur, to the whipped cream for a unique twist. Layering Technique: Ensure even layers by spreading the cream mixture and strawberries to the edges of the dish for a beautiful presentation. {{image_2}} You can switch up the fruits in this cake. Blueberries, peaches, or raspberries work great. Just remember, each fruit adds its own taste. You can also flavor the cream cheese. Try almond or coconut extract for a fun twist. This change gives the cake a new layer of flavor. Feel free to experiment with what you love! If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free graham crackers. Many brands offer great choices that taste just as good. For those who want dairy-free, use cashew cream or coconut cream instead of cream cheese and whipped cream. These substitutes keep the cake tasty while meeting dietary needs. To keep your leftover cake fresh, wrap it tightly. Use plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to lock in moisture and flavor. You can also use an airtight container for extra protection. Make sure the cake is cool before covering it. This prevents condensation and sogginess. In the fridge, this cake stays fresh for about 3-4 days. After that, it's best to check for signs of spoilage. Look for changes in texture or smell. If the cake seems watery or has a sour smell, toss it out. Always trust your senses when it comes to food safety. Yes, you can make this cake ahead of time. I suggest preparing it at least one day before you plan to serve it. This gives the flavors time to blend well. Refrigeration helps the cake to set, making it taste even better. The cake will stay fresh in the fridge for about 3 to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well. This keeps it moist and prevents it from absorbing other smells in the fridge. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating. Yes, you can freeze this cake. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. This prevents freezer burn. When ready to eat, place it in the fridge overnight to thaw. Enjoy it chilled for the best taste. In this blog, you learned how to make a delicious strawberry shortcake icebox cake. We covered each step, from preparing fresh strawberries to whipping cream and layering the cake. I shared essential tips for selecting ripe strawberries and perfecting your whipping cream. You also discovered variations like using different fruits and dietary alternatives. Remember, refrigeration is key for a tasty and fresh cake. Enjoy making this treat, and share it with friends and family! Your kitchen will be filled with smiles and delicious flavors.

Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

A refreshing and creamy dessert made with layers of strawberries, cream cheese, and graham crackers.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1.5 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 0.5 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 12 pieces graham crackers
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 piece Zest of 1 lemon

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of powdered sugar. Mix gently and let sit for about 10-15 minutes to macerate, allowing the strawberries to release their juices.
  • In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with the remaining powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
  • In another bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Beat until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in one cup of the whipped cream until just combined.
  • To assemble the cake, start by spreading a thin layer of the cream cheese mixture at the bottom of an 8x8 inch dish.
  • Place a layer of graham crackers over the cream mixture, breaking them to fit if necessary.
  • Spread another layer of the cream cheese mixture on top of the crackers, followed by a layer of the macerated strawberries.
  • Repeat the layers (graham crackers, cream cheese mixture, strawberries) until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of the whipped cream on top.
  • Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld and the cake firm up.
  • Before serving, garnish with additional fresh strawberries and a sprinkle of lemon zest on top for a refreshing touch.

Notes

Serve chilled slices on dessert plates and garnish with mint leaves for an extra fresh look.
Keyword dessert, icebox cake, strawberry