Table of Contents
- Why This Dessert Is Perfect for You
- The Joy of Simple Indulgence
- My Favorite Sweet Treats for Summer
- Hosting Made Easy with Simple Sweets
- Creating Memorable Moments
- Your Guide to Delicious Success
- The Recipe: Strawberry Icebox Shortcake
- Notes & Tips
Key Takeaways
This Strawberry Icebox Shortcake is the ultimate make-ahead dessert that requires no baking. Featuring layers of buttery graham cracker crust, creamy filling, and fresh macerated strawberries, it’s a crowd-pleaser that comes together with minimal effort. Perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you need a refreshing, fuss-free sweet easy recipe.
Why This Dessert Is Perfect for You
Hello, I’m Betty from Betty Cooks, and I’m so excited to share one of my all-time favorite summer desserts with you. If you’re looking for sweet easy recipes that don’t require turning on the oven, you’ve come to the right place. This Strawberry Icebox Shortcake has been a staple at my family gatherings for years, and it’s always the first dish to disappear from the table. What I love most about sweet easy recipes like this is that they let you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.
The Joy of Simple Indulgence
There’s something magical about desserts that come together with such ease yet deliver incredible satisfaction. This no-bake wonder combines the nostalgic flavor of graham crackers with the bright, fresh taste of summer strawberries. The creamy layer adds just the right amount of richness without being overwhelming, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s exactly the type of simple dessert that makes entertaining stress-free.
My Favorite Sweet Treats for Summer
Summer calls for desserts that are light, refreshing, and easy to prepare. This strawberry shortcake variation checks all those boxes while offering the comforting taste of a classic American dessert. Unlike traditional baked shortcakes, this icebox version stays cool and creamy—perfect for those warm evenings when you want something sweet without the heat of baking. It’s become my go-to when I need quick and easy dessert recipes for last-minute invitations or spontaneous backyard get-togethers.
Hosting Made Easy with Simple Sweets
One of the best things about this dessert is how it simplifies hosting. You can prepare it the day before, which means no last-minute kitchen chaos when guests arrive. The make-ahead nature of this no-bake dessert gives you the freedom to focus on other aspects of your gathering, whether that’s perfecting the main course, setting a beautiful table, or simply relaxing before company arrives. It’s these quick desserts that truly make entertaining enjoyable rather than stressful.
Creating Memorable Moments
Food has a special way of creating memories, and this dessert has been at the center of so many happy moments in my home. From Fourth of July celebrations to casual Sunday family dinners, its appearance always brings smiles. The combination of fresh fruit and creamy goodness seems to speak to everyone’s inner child while satisfying sophisticated palates. It’s these easy dessert recipes that often become the most requested and remembered.
Your Guide to Delicious Success
I’ve shared countless recipes on Betty Cooks, but this one holds a special place in my heart because of its simplicity and reliability. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone who rarely ventures into dessert-making, this recipe will work for you. The steps are straightforward, the ingredients are easy to find, and the result is consistently delicious. It’s the perfect example of how easy recipes can yield impressive results that make you look like a dessert pro.
Strawberry Icebox Shortcake – A Sweet, No-Bake Summer Dessert
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs (about 16 whole crackers)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
For the Cream Filling
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed, divided
For the Strawberry Layer
- 1 lb fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for macerating strawberries)
- Additional whipped topping and whole strawberries for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs and 1/4 cup sugar.
- Pour melted butter over the crumbs and mix until all crumbs are evenly moistened.
- Press mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form an even crust layer.
- Place in refrigerator to set while preparing the filling.
Macerate the Strawberries
- In a separate bowl, combine sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar.
- Stir gently and let sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out juices. Set aside.
Make the Cream Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully combined.
- Gently fold in half of the whipped topping (4 oz) until no streaks remain.
Assemble the Shortcake
- Remove crust from refrigerator. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the crust.
- Drain excess liquid from the macerated strawberries (reserve juice if desired for garnish).
- Arrange strawberry slices evenly over the cream layer.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping (4 oz) over the strawberries, covering completely.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Serve
- Before serving, garnish with additional whipped topping and whole strawberries if desired.
- Cut into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy!
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