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You’re about to discover a dessert that’s simple yet delicious: Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake. This delightful treat layers fresh strawberries, creamy mascarpone, and soft shortcake biscuits. It’s perfect for hot days and easy to make. With just a few steps, you can impress friends and family. Follow along as I share tips, tricks, and tasty variations to elevate your icebox cake game. Get ready to savor every bite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Fruity: This dessert is packed with fresh strawberries, making it a delightful treat that celebrates the flavors of summer.
- No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for hot days, this icebox cake requires no baking, allowing you to whip it up quickly and easily.
- Decadent Creaminess: The combination of mascarpone cheese and whipped cream creates a rich and luxurious texture that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries.
- Customizable Layers: You can easily modify the layers with other fruits or flavors, making it a versatile recipe for any occasion.
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberries
Fresh strawberries are the star of this cake. You need about 2 pounds. Start by hulling and slicing them. This helps release their sweet juice. Mix the sliced strawberries with 3 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Let them sit for 20 minutes. This step is key to making them juicy and flavorful.
Mascarpone Cheese and Heavy Whipping Cream
Next, gather your dairy. You will need 1 cup of heavy whipping cream and 1 cup of mascarpone cheese. The mascarpone adds richness. Whip the cream until it forms soft peaks. Then, mix in the mascarpone and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Keep whipping until stiff peaks form. This mixture will be creamy and smooth.
Store-Bought Shortcake Biscuits
For the cake base, pick up 12 to 15 store-bought shortcake biscuits. These biscuits save you time and taste great. You can also use sponge cakes if you prefer. Their light texture helps soak up the strawberry juice. This makes each bite a delight!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Strawberries
First, wash and hull the strawberries. Slice them into thin pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Toss them well. Let the strawberries sit for about 20 minutes. This allows them to release their sweet juices. The sugar helps draw out the flavor. You want those juices to make the cake even better.
Whipping the Cream and Cheese Mixture
Next, grab another bowl. Pour in the heavy cream and whip it until soft peaks form. This should take a few minutes. Then, add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract. Keep whipping until the mixture is creamy. You want stiff peaks this time. This mix makes the cake rich and smooth.
Layering the Cake
Now, it’s time to layer your cake. Start with a layer of shortcake biscuits at the bottom of a dish. Spread a layer of the whipped cream mixture over the biscuits. Next, add a layer of the sugared strawberries, including some of the juices. Repeat this process until you use all your ingredients. Finish with whipped cream on top. Add a final layer of strawberries for a pretty look. Cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate it for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This helps the flavors blend perfectly.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Perfect Whipped Cream
To whip cream well, start with cold tools. Use a chilled bowl and beaters. Pour one cup of heavy whipping cream into the bowl. Whip on medium speed. Watch for soft peaks to form. This means the cream is fluffy but not too stiff. Next, add one cup of mascarpone cheese and one teaspoon of vanilla extract. Keep whipping until you see stiff peaks. This cream will hold its shape nicely.
Best Shortcake Options
For this cake, store-bought shortcake biscuits work well. Choose the kind that is light and fluffy. You can also use sponge cakes for a softer texture. If you want to try making shortcake from scratch, keep it simple. A basic biscuit recipe can add a homemade touch. Just make sure it’s not too sweet, as the cream and strawberries will shine.
Serving Suggestions
When it’s time to serve, slice the cake into squares. Place each piece on a nice plate. Drizzle with leftover strawberry juice for added flavor. This makes it look pretty too! Add a few fresh mint leaves on top for color. This cake tastes best when it’s cold, so keep it chilled until you serve. Enjoy each bite of this refreshing dessert!
Pro Tips
- Choose Ripe Strawberries: Select strawberries that are bright red and firm to the touch for the best flavor and texture in your cake.
- Whip Cream to Stiff Peaks: Ensure that the whipped cream is whipped until stiff peaks form for a stable and fluffy texture that holds its shape well.
- Chill Overnight: For optimal flavor melding, allow the cake to chill overnight. This enhances the taste and helps the cake set better.
- Use Fresh Mint Wisely: Fresh mint not only garnishes but also adds a refreshing flavor. Use it sparingly to complement the sweetness of the strawberries.

Variations
Alternative Fruits to Use
You can switch up the strawberries for other fruits. Try fresh peaches, blueberries, or raspberries. Each fruit adds its own taste. Peaches bring a sweet, juicy bite. Blueberries add a pop of color and flavor. Raspberries give a tart twist. Mix different fruits for a fun rainbow effect!
Gluten-Free Shortcake Options
If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free shortcake biscuits. Many brands offer tasty choices. You can also use gluten-free sponge cakes. They work great too! Just check the labels to ensure they are safe for your diet. This way, everyone can enjoy the cake!
Adding Flavoring to the Cream
You can make the cream even better with added flavors. Try adding lemon zest for a fresh zing. A bit of almond extract brings a warm, nutty taste. For a chocolate twist, mix in cocoa powder. You can also use flavored whipped cream for a fun change.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftover Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake, cover it tightly. Use plastic wrap or a lid. This helps keep the cake fresh and moist. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within a few days. Enjoy the cake within three days for the best taste.
Best Practices for Refrigeration
Always refrigerate the cake after serving. This keeps the whipped cream and strawberries from spoiling. Make sure the cake is well-covered to avoid drying out. Check your fridge temperature. It should be at or below 40°F (4°C) for safe storage.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze this cake for longer storage. First, slice it into individual pieces. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap. Place the slices in an airtight container. Label the container with the date. You can freeze the cake for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Enjoy the cake as fresh as the day you made it!
FAQs
How long can I store Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake?
You can store the Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake in the fridge for up to three days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap. The cake may soften a bit, but the flavors will still be delicious. If you have leftovers, enjoy them the next day for a tasty treat.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can make this cake a day ahead. In fact, it tastes better when you let it chill overnight. Just layer it up, wrap it well, and place it in the fridge. The flavors blend nicely, and the cake sets up perfectly.
Is it possible to use homemade shortcake?
Absolutely! You can use homemade shortcake instead of store-bought. Just make sure the shortcake is firm enough to hold the layers. This gives you a chance to add your own touch. Homemade shortcake can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to this delightful cake.
This blog post covered all the key steps to create a delicious Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake. We explored fresh strawberries, creamy mascarpone, and easy shortcake biscuits. I shared tips for perfect whipped cream and serving ideas. You learned about variations, storage, and common questions.
This cake is simple and fun to make. It’s perfect for gatherings and can be adapted to fit your tastes. Enjoy this sweet treat and impress your friend
Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake
A refreshing and creamy dessert layered with strawberries and whipped cream.
Prep Time 30 minutes mins
Total Time 4 hours hrs 30 minutes mins
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 250 kcal
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup mascarpone cheese
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 12-15 pieces store-bought shortcake biscuits (or sponge cakes)
- to taste fresh mint leaves for garnish
In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar. Toss well to coat the strawberries in sugar and let them sit for about 20 minutes to release their juices.
In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Add the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract, then continue to whip until the mixture is creamy and stiff peaks form.
Start layering the cake: Place a layer of shortcake biscuits at the bottom of a rectangular or square dish.
Spread a layer of the whipped cream mixture over the biscuits, followed by a layer of the sugared strawberries (including some of the juice).
Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of whipped cream topped with strawberries.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
Before serving, garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and added freshness.
Slice the cake into squares and serve each slice on a plate, drizzled with any leftover strawberry juice. Garnish with additional mint leaves for a beautiful finish.
Keyword cake, dessert, no-bake, strawberry
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