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If you’re craving a sweet, cool dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, I have just the treat for you: Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake! This delightful dish layers fresh strawberries, creamy whipped goodness, and soft biscuits for a refreshing bite. Whether you’re planning a summer picnic or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can create this simple and delicious cake!

Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Fruity: This dessert highlights the natural sweetness and tartness of fresh strawberries, making it a perfect treat for berry lovers.
- Easy to Assemble: With no baking required, this icebox cake is simple to put together, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
- Rich and Creamy: The combination of mascarpone cheese and whipped cream creates a luxurious texture that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: This cake gets better the longer it sits, allowing you to prepare it in advance and have a stress-free dessert ready to serve.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup mascarpone cheese
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 12 to 15 store-bought shortcake biscuits or sponge cakes
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making your Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake shine. Start with fresh strawberries, as they bring a sweet burst of flavor. You’ll need granulated sugar to help draw out the strawberry juices, making a lovely syrup. Next, get heavy whipping cream. It will give you that light, fluffy texture.
You also need mascarpone cheese, which adds a rich creaminess to the cake. A splash of pure vanilla extract will enhance the overall flavor. As for the base, use store-bought shortcake biscuits or sponge cakes. They save time and still taste amazing. Finally, pick some fresh mint leaves to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Each ingredient plays its part to create a delightful treat that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. Enjoy the process of gathering these fresh ingredients, and let the fun begin!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Strawberries
First, take the fresh strawberries and hull them. Slice them into thin pieces. Place the sliced strawberries in a mixing bowl. Now, add the granulated sugar. Toss the strawberries gently. Make sure they are fully coated in sugar. Let them sit for about 20 minutes. This helps release their juices. You will see a nice syrup form at the bottom.
Making the Whipped Cream Mixture
In a separate bowl, pour the heavy whipping cream. Use a hand mixer or a stand mixer. Start whipping the cream until soft peaks form. This usually takes a few minutes. Next, add the mascarpone cheese and the pure vanilla extract. Continue to whip until the mixture is smooth and thick. You want to see stiff peaks here.
Assembling the Cake
Begin by layering the shortcake biscuits. Place a single layer at the bottom of your dish. Make sure they cover the base completely. Now, spread a layer of the whipped cream over the biscuits. Use a spatula to smooth it out. Next, add a layer of the sugared strawberries. Don’t forget to drizzle some of the strawberry juice on top. This adds great flavor! Repeat this layering process. Keep adding biscuits, whipped cream, and strawberries. Finish with a final layer of whipped cream and arrange the strawberries on top.
Chilling the Cake
Now, cover your dish with plastic wrap. Refrigeration is key here! Chill the cake for at least 4 hours. If you can, let it sit overnight. This helps the layers set perfectly and the flavors to mingle. The longer it chills, the better it tastes!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Whipped Cream
To make your whipped cream perfect, start by using cold cream. This helps it whip faster. When you whip, watch for stiff peaks. You want the cream to hold its shape. This means, stop mixing when you reach that point. If you mix too long, the cream can turn into butter. So, keep a close eye on it!
Layering Techniques
Layering is key for flavor in your icebox cake. Start with a layer of biscuits. Spread whipped cream evenly on top. Then add your sugared strawberries. Repeat this until you use all your ingredients. The last layer should be whipped cream topped with strawberries. For a great look, try to make it neat. Presentation matters! Slice the cake into squares before serving, and arrange each slice on a plate. Drizzle some leftover strawberry juice around for an extra pop.
Enhancing Flavor
Want to boost the flavor? Try adding nuts or chocolate shavings on top. They add a nice crunch and richness. You can also use other fruits. Try blueberries or raspberries for a twist. These fruits mix well with strawberries. They can change the taste, making it even more interesting!
Pro Tips
- Choose Ripe Strawberries: Select strawberries that are bright red and firm for the best flavor and sweetness. Avoid any that are overly soft or have blemishes.
- Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: Ensure you whip the cream until it reaches stiff peaks. This will help the whipped cream hold its shape when layered in the cake.
- Let it Chill Longer: For optimal flavor and texture, refrigerate the cake overnight. This allows the layers to meld together beautifully.
- Garnish Just Before Serving: Add fresh mint leaves just before serving to keep them vibrant and fresh, enhancing both the presentation and flavor.

Variations
Different Fruit Options
You can switch up the strawberries for other fruits. Think about using peaches or raspberries. Seasonal fruits add great flavor and freshness. For a berry mix, combine blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries. This gives your cake a colorful and tasty twist. Each fruit brings its own unique taste. Try different fruits to find your favorite mix!
Gluten-Free Options
If you need a gluten-free cake, use gluten-free biscuits or sponge cakes. Many brands offer tasty gluten-free options. You can also make your own with almond or coconut flour. Be sure to check the texture; it should still be light and airy. A good mix of gluten-free flour can help keep the cake fluffy.
Flavor Additions
You can enhance the flavor with extracts like almond or lemon. Just a few drops can change the whole taste. For the cream, try infusing it with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg. This adds a warm touch to your cake. Get creative and experiment with different flavors that you love!
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storage
To keep your Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap. You want to avoid any air getting in, which can dry out your cake. Store the cake in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors will blend nicely as it sits, making each bite even better.
Freezing Options
If you want to freeze your cake, it’s best to do so before adding fresh strawberries. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. This helps prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to a month. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. The texture might change a bit, but it will still taste great.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is a treat on its own, but you can add more fun! Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It pairs well with a glass of sweet tea or lemonade, too. For a touch of elegance, garnish with fresh mint leaves or extra strawberries. These additions make your dessert even more delightful!
FAQs
How far in advance can I make Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake?
You can make this cake up to two days ahead. It tastes even better after chilling overnight. The longer it sits, the more the flavors blend. Just remember to cover it well with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just thaw them first and drain the excess liquid. This will help keep your cake from getting too soggy. Fresh strawberries taste best, but frozen can work in a pinch.
What happens if I skip the chilling step?
If you skip chilling, the layers won’t set properly. The cake will be messy and hard to cut. Chilling helps the flavors meld and the cream to firm up. So, I highly recommend not skipping this step.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this cake?
Yes, you can make a dairy-free version. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a dairy-free cream cheese for the mascarpone. This option is tasty and keeps the dessert light and fresh.
Can I use homemade shortcake instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade shortcake can add a personal touch. Just ensure it is firm enough to hold the layers together. If you bake them, let them cool completely before using.
How can I make this recipe more festive?
Add a splash of color with some blueberries or raspberries. You can also drizzle a bit of chocolate sauce on top for a fun twist. These small changes can make your dessert stand out for special occasions.
Can I make a smaller version of this cake?
Yes, you can easily adjust the recipe. Just halve the ingredients and use a smaller dish. It’s a great way to make a treat for fewer people without wasting any ingredients.
What can I serve with Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake?
This cake pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A light fruit salad would also complement the flavors nicely. Enjoy it with a cup of herbal tea for a delightful treat.
This article guides you through making a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. We explored fun variations and storage options too.
Remember, the chilling step is vital for the best flavor. Use fresh fruits and experiment with flavors to make it your own. Enjoy creating this tasty treat, and share it with friends and family! Your homemade delight will surely impres
Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake
A refreshing and delightful dessert featuring layers of strawberries, whipped cream, and shortcake biscuits.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 300 kcal
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 12-15 pieces store-bought shortcake biscuits (or sponge cakes)
- to taste fresh mint leaves for garnish
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with the granulated sugar. Toss the strawberries gently to ensure they are evenly coated in sugar. Allow them to sit for about 20 minutes; this will help release their natural juices and create a delicious syrup.
In a separate bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream until soft peaks begin to form. Add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, then continue to whip until the mixture is smooth and thick, forming stiff peaks.
Begin assembling the cake by placing a single layer of shortcake biscuits at the bottom of a rectangular or square dish, ensuring they cover the base completely.
Carefully spread a generous layer of the whipped cream mixture over the biscuits, smoothing it out with a spatula. Next, spoon a layer of the sugared strawberries on top, making sure to drizzle some of the strawberry juice over this layer for added flavor.
Repeat the layering process: add another layer of shortcake biscuits, followed by more whipped cream, then more strawberries, continuing until all ingredients are used up. Ensure the final top layer consists of whipped cream, finished with a beautiful arrangement of the sugared strawberries.
Cover the dish securely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, although letting it sit overnight will enhance the flavors even further. This step is crucial for allowing the cake to set perfectly.
When ready to serve, garnish with a handful of fresh mint leaves. This not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also enriches the cake with a refreshing aroma.
For a beautiful presentation, slice the cake into squares and plate each slice individually. Drizzle any leftover strawberry juice around the plate for added color and flavor.
Keyword cake, dessert, icebox, no-bake, strawberry
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