Description

This Easy No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake is a delightful, creamy dessert perfect for warm weather or any occasion. Layers of macerated fresh strawberries, whipped vanilla cream, and crisp shortbread cookies come together after chilling to create a soft, flavorful treat without any baking required.

Ingredients

Scale

Strawberries

4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons granulated sugar (for macerating)

Whipped Cream

2 cups heavy whipping cream, cold
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Layers

Approximately 30 shortbread cookies or graham crackers

Instructions

Prep the Strawberries: Hull and slice about 4 cups of fresh strawberries. Toss them with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to macerate, which enhances their natural sweetness and juiciness.
Whip the Cream: Pour 2 cups of cold heavy whipping cream into a chilled mixing bowl. Add 1/3 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer or whisk, whip the cream until soft peaks form, creating a smooth and fluffy texture.
Layer the Icebox Cake: In a 9×13 inch glass baking dish, spread a thin layer of whipped cream. Arrange a layer of shortbread cookies or graham crackers evenly over the cream. Spoon about one-third of the macerated strawberries over the cookies, then add a generous layer of whipped cream on top. Repeat these layers two more times, finishing with a top layer of whipped cream. Reserve some strawberry slices for garnish if desired.
Chill Overnight: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling step softens the cookies and allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
Serve: Just before serving, garnish the top of the cake with the reserved strawberry slices or crushed shortbread cookies. Slice into pieces and serve chilled for a refreshing and easy dessert.

Notes

You can substitute shortbread cookies with graham crackers or digestive biscuits depending on preference.
For a tangier flavor, add a little more lemon juice to the strawberries.
Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
Make sure your whipping cream is very cold to achieve better volume when whipped.
This dessert can be prepared up to one day ahead, making it great for entertaining.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American

Keywords: strawberry shortcake, no bake dessert, icebox cake, summer dessert, whipped cream dessert, easy strawberry cake, layered dessert