Quick Description
This No-Bake Strawberry Icebox Cake is light, creamy, and wonderfully refreshing. Layers of fluffy whipped cream, tender graham crackers, and juicy fresh strawberries come together into a chilled dessert that slices beautifully after resting. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for summer days, gatherings, or anytime you want an easy dessert without turning on the oven.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 12 slices
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Chill Time: 4–6 hours (overnight is best)
- Total Time: ~6 hours
Nutritional Info (Per Slice – Approximate)
- Calories: 290
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Sugar: 20g
- Protein: 4g
(Values vary based on cream cheese and jam usage.)
Ingredients
Cream Layer
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 4 oz cream cheese, softened (for extra stability)
Layers
- 1 box graham crackers
- 3–4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
Strawberry Topping (Optional but Recommended)
- ½ cup strawberry jam or preserves
- 1–2 tablespoons water (to thin)
How to Make No-Bake Strawberry Icebox Cake
Step 1: Make the Cream
In a large bowl, beat the cold whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
If using cream cheese, beat it separately until smooth, then gently fold it into the whipped cream until fully combined.
Step 2: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries.
(Optional) Toss lightly with 1–2 tablespoons sugar if you prefer extra juiciness.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
In a 9×13-inch dish:
- Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom.
- Add a single layer of graham crackers (break as needed to fit).
- Spread whipped cream evenly over crackers.
- Add a layer of sliced strawberries.
Repeat layers until ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Step 4: Add Strawberry Topping (Optional)
Warm strawberry jam with water until pourable. Let cool slightly, then drizzle over the top.
Step 5: Chill
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight, until graham crackers soften and the cake sets.
Step 6: Slice & Serve
Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Additional Notes
- Overnight chilling gives the best texture
- Crackers soften into cake-like layers
- Cream cheese helps the cake hold shape longer
Dietary Info
- No-bake
- Vegetarian
- Can be made gluten-free with GF graham crackers
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Swap strawberries for blueberries or mixed berries
- Add lemon zest to the cream for brightness
- Layer with crushed cookies instead of graham crackers
- Finish with shaved white chocolate
Ingredient Substitutions
- Whipped Cream: Store-bought whipped topping
- Graham Crackers: Digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers
- Jam: Fresh strawberry puree
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerator: Store covered up to 3 days
- Best texture within first 48 hours
- Not freezer-friendly
FAQs
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes—this dessert is perfect when made a day ahead.
Q: Will it hold its shape?
A: Yes, especially if cream cheese is used.
Q: Can I reduce sweetness?
A: Absolutely—use less sugar in the cream or skip jam.
Q: Can kids help make this?
A: Definitely—no oven and simple layering steps.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Strawberry Icebox Cake is everything an easy dessert should be—cool, creamy, fruity, and effortless. With minimal prep and beautiful layers, it’s a guaranteed crowd favorite you’ll make again and again.
