Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/3 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 box of store-bought shortcake biscuits or ladyfingers

Highlighted under: Baked Bliss

I discovered the joy of making Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake during a hot summer day when I needed a refreshing dessert without turning on the oven. This layered delight combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the lightness of whipped cream and soft, buttery biscuits. It's an easy recipe that requires no baking, making it perfect for gatherings. In just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dessert that impresses everyone. I love serving it chilled as it offers the perfect balance of flavors, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:49:36.285Z

When I first made this Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to assemble! Layering the sweet cream and juicy strawberries between airy biscuits created a beautiful visual presentation that was almost too good to eat. The contrast between the creaminess and the freshness of the fruit was spectacular, and I found myself sneaking extra slices throughout the day!

One tip I learned is that letting the cake chill for at least four hours really allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The biscuits soften, and every bite becomes a delightful blend of textures and flavors. It’s now my go-to recipe for summer barbecues and family gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with ripe, juicy strawberries in every bite
No-bake, making it a perfect summer dessert
Luscious whipped cream that complements the strawberries beautifully

Choosing the Right Strawberries

The quality of your strawberries is crucial for this dessert. Look for firm, ripe strawberries that are bright red and fragrant. Avoid any fruit with bruises or dull skin, as they won’t provide the same burst of flavor. If strawberries are out of season, you can use frozen ones; just be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess moisture before using to prevent sogginess.

When preparing strawberries for your cake, slice them evenly to ensure that they layer uniformly within the cake. Even slices help with both presentation and texture, providing a consistent creamy and fruity bite in every slice.

Tips for Perfect Whipped Cream

Whipping cream properly is essential to achieving a light and fluffy texture. Start with cold heavy cream, as this helps in achieving soft peaks more quickly. If you prefer a sweeter or flavored whipped cream, adjust the powdered sugar in relation to your taste, but be cautious not to overly sweeten, as the strawberries also contribute natural sugar.

If you find your whipped cream doesn’t hold its shape, this may be due to over-whipping. If this happens, gently fold in a small amount of fresh cream to adjust the consistency. A good rule of thumb is to stop whipping as soon as you see soft peaks forming, which maintains the lightness needed for the perfect icebox cake.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake can be prepared a day ahead, making it ideal for gatherings. Once fully assembled and chilled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap to keep it fresh. The flavors will actually deepen and improve overnight, giving the cake a more robust flavor profile.

If you're looking to store leftovers, the cake can last in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, keep in mind that the texture of the biscuits may continue to soften over time. If you want to freeze it, consider placing individual slices in airtight containers; they can last for about a month in the freezer. To serve, let the slices thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Ingredients

Cake Components

1 pound fresh strawberries, sliced
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1/3 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 box of store-bought shortcake biscuits or ladyfingers

Gather these ingredients before starting your cake assembly for a smoother process!

Instructions

Whip the Cream

In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, whip the cream until soft peaks form.

Layer the Ingredients

In a rectangular dish, begin layering the shortcake biscuits at the bottom. Spread a layer of whipped cream over the biscuits, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat this process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.

Chill the Cake

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate the cake for at least four hours to allow the flavors to meld and the biscuits to soften.

Serve

Once chilled, slice the cake into squares and serve with additional berries on the side if desired.

Enjoy this delightful dessert on a warm day!

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, consider incorporating a splash of orange juice or zest into the whipped cream!

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch, consider garnishing your Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake with mint leaves or a dusting of additional powdered sugar just before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness that can enhance the overall visual appeal of the dessert.

I also love pairing slices with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or a side of homemade fruit compote to intensify the fruit flavors. This variation can transform each bite into a unique treat, pleasing those who crave a bit more indulgence.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with other berries such as blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry icebox cake. The tartness of these berries can add a delightful contrast to the sweet strawberries, creating a more complex flavor profile.

For a different twist, consider adding a layer of lemon curd between the strawberry and whipped cream layers. The acidity from the lemon curd cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing balance that can really elevate the entire dessert.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain excess liquid before using them.

→ How long can I store the cake?

The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, although it is best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.

→ Can I substitute the heavy cream?

You can use whipped topping as a substitute, but the texture and flavor will differ from using heavy cream.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the biscuits?

Yes, look for gluten-free shortcake biscuits or ladyfingers at your local grocery store to make this dessert gluten-free.