Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 2 cups heavy cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 package sponge cake or ladyfingers; Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven-Made Sweets

I love making Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake during the warmer months when strawberries are at their peak. The combination of creamy whipped cream and sweet strawberries layered between soft sponge cake is simply irresistible. It's incredibly easy to put together, requires no baking, and can be prepped ahead of time. Each bite feels like a delightful summer treat, making it the perfect dessert for gatherings, picnics, or just enjoying a quiet evening at home.

Created by

Ruby Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-23T19:09:39.384Z

One afternoon, I decided to experiment with layering sponge cake and fresh strawberries to create a light dessert that would impress my guests. The process was straightforward: I simply whipped up some heavy cream and layered it with fresh strawberries and cake in a dish. The results exceeded my expectations—everyone was raving about it!

What I found particularly useful was letting the cake sit in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving. This time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the sponge cake absorbs just the right amount of moisture, which results in a wonderfully balanced dessert.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Lush layers of whipped cream and fresh strawberries
No baking required, making it a breeze to prepare
A refreshing dessert perfect for hot summer days

Understanding the Layers

The key to a successful Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake lies in its layers. Using sponge cake or ladyfingers creates a delicate structure that soaks in the juices from the strawberries, adding flavor and moisture. This makes the cake irresistible without becoming soggy. If you're making it during the hotter months, consider freezing your sponge or ladyfinger for about 30 minutes before assembly. This minor adjustment helps maintain structure as the cake chills in the fridge.

Another important layer is the whipped cream. Using heavy cream is crucial because it whips up to a stable texture that holds up well in the refrigerator, ensuring the cake stays light and airy. To achieve perfectly whipped cream, start with a chilled bowl and beaters. Whipping on medium speed initially helps incorporate air, then increase the speed once soft peaks form. This technique avoids over-whipping, which can lead to a grainy texture.

Perfecting the Strawberries

The strawberries are the star of the show, so choosing the right ones can make all the difference. Opt for ripe, vibrant red strawberries, as they will be the sweetest and juiciest. Letting them sit with sugar for 15 minutes helps draw out their natural juices, creating a lovely syrup that enhances the overall flavor of the cake. If your strawberries aren’t quite ripe, consider adding a dash of lemon juice to balance the sweetness.

If you're looking to vary the flavor, you could incorporate other berries such as blueberries or raspberries, blending them with strawberries for an inviting summer fruit medley. Just be mindful of the juiciness of each fruit, as too much liquid can compromise the structure of your layers. In such cases, make sure to drain excess liquid before layering to keep your cake in perfect form.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake:

Ingredients

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups heavy cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 package sponge cake or ladyfingers
Mint leaves for garnish (optional)

This simple list of ingredients ensures that your dessert is not only easy to make but also full of vibrant flavors!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a perfect Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with a tablespoon of sugar and set aside for about 15 minutes to release their juices.

Whip the Cream

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until firm peaks develop.

Layer the Cake

In a 9x13 inch dish, arrange a layer of sponge cake or ladyfingers at the bottom. Spread half of the whipped cream over the cake, then add half of the strawberries. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

Chill and Serve

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. When ready to serve, cut into squares and garnish with mint leaves if desired.

This process results in a delightful cake that is sure to become a favorite at any gathering!

Pro Tips

For best results, use freshly whipped cream, as store-bought versions often contain stabilizers that may affect the texture. Feel free to customize your cake by adding other fruits, such as blueberries or bananas, for added flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of this Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake is its readiness in advance. You can prepare the entire cake a day before your event, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. After assembling, just cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent any odors from the fridge seeping into your dessert. This also helps maintain the whipped cream's lightness, ensuring it stays fluffy until serving.

If you need to store leftovers, cover them similarly and consume within two days for the best texture and taste. However, keep in mind that as the cake sits, the sponge will continue to absorb juices, resulting in a softer texture over time. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices in an airtight container, but consume them within a month to enjoy their best quality.

Creative Variations

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You could substitute the sponge cake for a graham cracker crust for a twist on the classic dessert. This variation adds a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy layers. Additionally, you could infuse your whipped cream with flavors such as almond extract or a splash of liqueur, like Amaretto, to add depth without overpowering the strawberry essence.

For a richer bite, consider adding a layer of mascarpone cheese mixed with the whipped cream. This will give the filling a luscious quality while maintaining lightness. Just remember to keep the proportions balanced to avoid overwhelming the strawberries. Each of these variations offers a unique take on a beloved classic, and adjusting the ingredients lets you tailor the dessert to your personal tastes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dessert ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, this dessert tastes best when prepared a day in advance, as it allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

→ What can I use instead of strawberries?

You can substitute strawberries with other berries like raspberries or blueberries, or even use peaches for a different flavor profile.

→ Can I freeze the Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake?

While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Just ensure it's well wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

→ Is there a way to make it dairy-free?

Yes! You can use coconut cream or any dairy-free whipping cream alternative to replace the heavy cream.