Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Strawberry Icebox Cake is a no-bake dessert that layers sweet strawberries, whipped cream, and graham crackers into a chilled, creamy treat. Perfect for summer, it requires minimal effort and delivers maximum flavor with its fresh, fruity taste and melt-in-your-mouth texture. This crowd-pleaser is as easy to make as it is delicious.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
fresh strawberriesheavy whipping creamsweetened condensed milkvanilla extractgraham crackers
directions
Wash and slice the strawberries; set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
Add sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, and continue to whip until well combined and thick.
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the whipped cream mixture on the bottom.
Place a single layer of graham crackers over the cream.
Spread another layer of whipped cream on top of the crackers, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries.
Repeat the layers—graham crackers, cream, and strawberries—until you run out of ingredients, ending with strawberries on top.
Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the cake to set and the crackers to soften.
Slice and serve chilled.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 8–10 servings.Preparation time: 20 minutesChilling time: 4+ hoursTotal time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Variations
Use chocolate graham crackers for a richer flavor.
Add a layer of strawberry jam for extra sweetness.
Incorporate cream cheese into the whipped cream for a tangy twist.
Top with crushed nuts or white chocolate shavings before serving.
storage/reheating
Store Strawberry Icebox Cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days.Not suitable for reheating, as it is meant to be served chilled.For longer storage, freeze individual slices and thaw in the fridge before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture.
Do I need an electric mixer for the whipped cream?
It helps, but you can whip by hand—it will just take longer.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely, making it a day ahead enhances the flavor and texture.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?
Yes, it’s a quick substitute if you’re short on time.
Is this cake overly sweet?
It has a balanced sweetness from the strawberries and condensed milk.
What kind of dish works best?
A 9×13 inch baking dish is ideal for layering.
Can I add other fruits?
Yes, blueberries, raspberries, or bananas work well.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just use gluten-free graham crackers.
Is it kid-friendly?
Definitely—it’s sweet, soft, and easy to eat.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just use a larger dish or make two batches.
Conclusion
Strawberry Icebox Cake is the perfect make-ahead dessert for warm days and special gatherings. With its simple ingredients and fresh flavor, it’s a hit for all ages and occasions. This cake is a celebration of strawberries and cream that comes together effortlessly—no oven required.
PrintStrawberry Icebox Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing, no-bake dessert layered with whipped cream, graham crackers, and fresh strawberries. Perfect for warm weather or easy entertaining.
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 box graham crackers (about 18 full sheets)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for strawberries)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Optional: Toss sliced strawberries with 1 tbsp granulated sugar and set aside to macerate for 10 minutes.
- Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Layer graham crackers over the whipped cream, breaking them as needed to fit the pan.
- Spread a layer of whipped cream over the graham crackers, then add a layer of sliced strawberries.
- Repeat the layers (graham crackers, whipped cream, strawberries) two more times, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and strawberries on top.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for best flavor.
- Can substitute Cool Whip for homemade whipped cream if preferred.
- Other berries like blueberries or raspberries can be added for variation.
- Refrigeration overnight gives the best texture.