Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ cup unsalted butter, melted; 1 large egg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Oven-Made Sweets

I am thrilled to share my recipe for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars! These delightful treats are a perfect blend of creamy ice cream, fresh strawberries, and a crunchy shortcake crust. I love making these bars during the summer months when strawberries are at their peak ripeness. They are incredibly refreshing and make for a wonderful dessert that family and friends will enjoy. Plus, they are easy to prepare ahead of time, which makes entertaining a breeze!

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-28T01:09:34.946Z

When I first tried making these Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars, I was looking for a fun and unique dessert for a summer picnic. The combination of homemade strawberry ice cream and a cookie crust immediately caught my attention. I found that using fresh strawberries gives the ice cream a vibrant flavor and color, making each bite a treat. The method of layering the ice cream and crust in a pan worked like a charm!

As I experimented with different ratios of shortcake to ice cream, I discovered that a thicker layer of shortcake provided the perfect balance of crunch and creaminess. This method also ensures that each bar retains its shape when sliced, making for a beautiful presentation. I highly recommend using a sharp knife dipped in warm water for clean cuts.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Delicious layers of creamy strawberry ice cream and buttery shortcake
Made with fresh strawberries for an irresistible flavor
Easy to prepare ahead and perfect for summer gatherings

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of these Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars is undeniably the fresh strawberries. When selecting strawberries, look for berries that are bright red and free of blemishes, as they not only taste better but also contribute a vibrant color to your dessert. Fresh strawberries add a juicy sweetness that complements the creamy texture of the ice cream wonderfully. If fresh strawberries aren't available, frozen ones can work in a pinch; just be sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your mixture.

Heavy cream plays a critical role in achieving the rich, creamy texture of the ice cream. Opt for a heavy cream with at least 36% fat content, which helps create a smooth consistency without large ice crystals. If you're looking to make a lighter version, you can substitute half and half, but the texture will be less indulgent. Combining the heavy cream with sweetened condensed milk provides sweetness and creaminess, eliminating the need for extra sugar.

Perfecting the Shortcake Crust

The shortcake crust is a vital component that adds structure and crunch to your bars. While combining the dry ingredients, make sure to blend them well before adding in the melted butter. This ensures an even distribution of baking powder for better rise. After pressing the dough into the pan, it should feel somewhat firm but still pliable. Keep an eye on it while baking—you're aiming for a golden-brown crust with crispy edges that will hold up well against the layers of ice cream.

If you prefer a slightly different flavor for the crust, you can experiment by adding a teaspoon of lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist. Alternatively, trying a gluten-free flour blend can make this dessert suitable for those with gluten sensitivities without significantly altering the taste or texture.

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Shortcake Crust

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Make the Ice Cream

In a blender, combine the sliced strawberries, heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container and freeze for at least 3 hours.

Prepare the Shortcake Crust

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract. Mix until a dough forms. Press the dough into the bottom of a lined 9x9-inch baking pan.

Layer the Ice Cream and Shortcake

Once the ice cream is partially set (after about 2 hours), remove it from the freezer and scoop it over the shortcake crust in the baking pan. Spread evenly. Freeze for an additional hour.

Cut and Serve

Remove the bars from the pan using the parchment paper. Cut into squares or bars and serve immediately, or freeze for longer storage.

Pro Tips

For a fun twist, try adding crushed graham crackers on top of the ice cream layer before freezing for extra crunch!

Storing and Freezing

Once your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars are cut, store the pieces in an airtight container, separated by parchment paper to avoid sticking. These bars can last in the freezer for up to two months. However, they are best enjoyed within the first 1-2 weeks for optimal texture and flavor. If you notice any freezer burn developing, are a sign they may need to be consumed sooner rather than later.

If you want to make these bars ahead of time, consider freezing the ice cream layer separately in a container and preparing the crust on the day you plan to serve them. This will ensure your ice cream maintains its delicious creaminess and avoids any crystallization that can occur from prolonged freezing.

Serving Suggestions

These Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars are perfect on their own, but you can elevate them by serving with a drizzle of homemade strawberry sauce or a sprinkling of crushed graham crackers for added texture. For some fun, consider serving them with a dollop of whipped cream or a fresh strawberry on top, making for a beautiful presentation that’s sure to impress guests at any summer gathering.

For a more adventurous twist, try incorporating different fruits or flavorings into the ice cream mixture. Blueberries or raspberries can be a delicious addition, and you can even experiment with other extracts, like almond or coconut, to change the taste profile. Whatever you choose, this versatility allows you to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or seasonal ingredient availability.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but fresh strawberries will give you a brighter flavor.

→ How long will these bars keep in the freezer?

These ice cream bars can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 weeks if wrapped well.

→ Can I substitute other fruits?

Absolutely! You can use blueberries, raspberries, or even peaches for a different flavor profile.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

You can substitute coconut cream and dairy-free condensed milk for a delicious dairy-free version.