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Strawberry Icebox Cake Recipe

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4 from 41 reviews

This Strawberry Icebox Cake is a simple and refreshing no-bake dessert featuring layers of fresh strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and crunchy graham crackers. It requires minimal prep and is chilled for a few hours to let the flavors meld, making it a perfect make-ahead sweet treat for warm days or any occasion.

Ingredients

Fruit

  • pounds fresh strawberries

Dairy & Sweeteners

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • ½ cup powdered sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Dry Goods

  • sleeves of graham crackers (or 14-15 full sheets)

Instructions

  1. Prep the strawberries: Wash the strawberries thoroughly, dry them well using a clean towel, and remove the stems. Slice the strawberries thinly and set them aside for layering.
  2. Whip the cream: In the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Start mixing on low speed just to combine ingredients, then gradually increase to high speed. Whip the mixture for 2 to 4 minutes or until stiff peaks form, indicating the whipped cream is ready.
  3. Assemble the cake: Spread a thin layer of the whipped cream on the bottom of a 9×9-inch baking dish; this helps the graham crackers stick and stay in place. Place a layer of graham crackers over the cream, breaking crackers as needed to fill the dish uniformly. Add a layer of whipped cream over the crackers, followed by a layer of sliced strawberries. Repeat these layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of strawberries on top. Cover the dish with plastic wrap.
  4. Chill: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
  5. Serve: Remove from the refrigerator, slice into desired portions, and serve chilled for a refreshing dessert experience.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries to maximize sweetness and flavor.
  • If you prefer a slightly tangier whipped cream, you can substitute half of the powdered sugar with a little cream cheese.
  • This dessert can be prepared a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
  • Variations include adding crushed nuts or chocolate chips between layers for extra texture.
  • Use gluten-free graham crackers to make this dessert gluten free.