The Recipe Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake That You Will Follow
Let me tell you, this Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is going to steal the show at your next gathering—or even just make your next dessert night at home something truly special. Picture this: layers of sweet vanilla ice cream, tangy strawberry goodness, and that irresistible crunch of shortcake. It’s like the best of all worlds wrapped up in one stunning, easy-to-make dessert. You’ll be tempted to dig in right away, but trust me, the wait is so worth it.
This isn’t just another dessert; it’s a total game-changer. It’s the kind of treat that has everyone reaching for seconds, and maybe even thirds (don’t worry, I won’t judge). The combination of creamy, fruity, and crumbly textures will have you hooked from the first bite. And the best part? You don’t need to be a baking expert to pull this off. It’s straightforward, fun, and guaranteed to impress. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re whipping this up for a summer BBQ, celebrating a birthday, or simply treating yourself, this ice cream cake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Here’s why it’s so beloved:
Versatile:
Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to big celebrations. Imagine serving this at a birthday party, and watching everyone’s eyes light up with excitement. Or picture a cozy afternoon at home, savoring a slice with a cup of tea. The possibilities are endless!
Budget-Friendly:
You don’t need fancy ingredients here—this dessert is all about using what you likely already have in your kitchen. Ice cream, shortcake, fresh strawberries… it’s simple, yet so satisfying. And if you’re in a pinch, the ingredients are flexible enough to work with whatever you have on hand.
Quick and Easy:
This dessert comes together in just a few simple steps—no oven, no stress. The hardest part is waiting for it to freeze, but that’s just a perfect excuse for a little patience. You’re going to love how quickly this masterpiece comes together.
Customizable:
Feel free to swap out flavors of ice cream or berries depending on your mood! Want to try a chocolate ice cream base or add some raspberries in the mix? Go for it! This recipe is as flexible as your cravings.
Crowd-Pleasing:
It’s practically guaranteed that everyone—kids and adults alike—will be asking for seconds. The sweet, tangy, and creamy combination is just irresistible, and there’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing a homemade dessert that gets rave reviews.

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Ingredients in Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
Here’s the beauty of this dessert: it’s made with a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create magic. Let’s break it down:
Vanilla Ice Cream:
The creamy base of the cake. It provides the cool, smooth texture that melts beautifully in your mouth. You can opt for dairy-free or plant-based versions if you prefer!
Shortcake or Pound Cake:
The crumbly, buttery layers that give the dessert its structure and texture. This is where the signature “shortcake” flavor comes into play, creating the perfect balance with the creamy ice cream.
Fresh Strawberries:
The star of the show. Sweet, juicy, and just a little bit tangy, these strawberries will bring a burst of freshness to every bite. You can use fresh or frozen, but fresh will really make it shine.
Whipped Cream:
To top it all off! A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds that final touch of indulgence and makes everything just a little bit lighter and airier.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this sweet, frozen masterpiece:
Prepare Your Shortcake Layer:
Start by crumbling your shortcake (or pound cake) into the bottom of a cake pan. Use a spatula or your hands to spread it out evenly. This will create the base layer of your cake and add that perfect crumbly texture when you take a bite.
Layer the Ice Cream:
Next, scoop your softened vanilla ice cream and spread it evenly over the shortcake layer. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to smooth it out into an even layer. This is the creamy goodness that makes this dessert so dreamy!
Add the Strawberries:
Take your fresh strawberries and slice them up. Layer the slices evenly over the ice cream, so each bite has that delicious strawberry punch. You can also add a bit of sugar to the strawberries if you want them a little sweeter, but they’re usually perfect as is.
Top with Whipped Cream:
Now, spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the strawberries. This will give your cake a light, fluffy finish. Plus, it adds a little extra sweetness that makes each bite feel extra indulgent.
Freeze to Perfection:
Pop the cake in the freezer and let it freeze for at least 4 hours, or until everything is firm and set. The longer you let it freeze, the better the layers will meld together!
Serve and Enjoy:
Once your cake has frozen to perfection, slice it up, and serve. I promise, the moment you cut into it, you’ll see layers of creamy goodness, juicy strawberries, and that delicious shortcake base. Now, enjoy every last bite!
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
While this cake is incredible all on its own, here are a few ways to make your dessert experience even better:
Serve with Extra Berries:
Garnish each slice with a few fresh strawberries for a pop of color and extra sweetness. You can even drizzle a little bit of strawberry syrup or fresh cream on top for a finishing touch.
Pair with a Cold Drink:
This ice cream cake pairs wonderfully with iced tea or lemonade. The sweetness of the cake and the refreshing drinks are a perfect match for a warm day.
Enjoy on Special Occasions:
Of course, this cake is perfect for birthdays or summer get-togethers, but don’t wait for a celebration—make it any time you’re craving a refreshing, sweet treat!
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to make this recipe even better:
Prep Ahead:
This cake is perfect for making ahead. You can assemble it the night before and leave it to freeze overnight. It’s one less thing to worry about on the day of your gathering!
Swap the Fruit:
Feel free to use other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or peaches. The flavor combinations are endless!
Dietary Adjustments:
If you’re going dairy-free, use plant-based ice cream and whipped cream alternatives. You can also find gluten-free shortcake options if needed.
Storage Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. You’ll have a sweet treat waiting for you whenever you’re in the mood!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute the shortcake with something else?
A1: Absolutely! You can use pound cake or even a graham cracker crust for a fun twist.
Q2: How far in advance can I make this cake?
A2: You can make this cake up to a day in advance, just let it freeze until firm!
Q3: Can I use frozen strawberries?
A3: Yes, frozen strawberries work well, just be sure to thaw them a bit before layering them on the cake.
Q4: How do I store leftovers?
A4: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week.
Q5: Can I make this cake in a different size?
A5: Definitely! Just use a smaller or larger cake pan and adjust the amount of ingredients accordingly.
Q6: Can I make this cake without whipped cream?
A6: You can! If you want a lighter version, feel free to skip it or try a dairy-free whipped topping.
Conclusion
This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is one of those recipes that’s guaranteed to make your taste buds dance. It’s sweet, creamy, and has just the right amount of texture. Plus, it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. So, next time you need a show-stopping dessert, remember this one—it’s sure to make everyone’s day a little sweeter!
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The Recipe Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake That You Will Follow
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert, Frozen
- Method: Freezing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a delightful frozen dessert with layers of vanilla ice cream sandwiches, strawberry shortcake topping, whipped topping, and fresh strawberries. It’s the perfect sweet treat for hot summer days.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Topping
- 16 to 20 vanilla ice cream sandwiches with vanilla outside wafers (e.g., Prairie Farms® Double Vanilla ice cream sandwiches)
- 16 ounces whipped topping
- 1/2 cup strawberry ice cream topping
- 1 cup sliced strawberries
Instructions
- Arrange a layer of ice cream sandwiches in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
- Spread 1 1/2 cups of strawberry shortcake ice cream topping over the ice cream sandwiches.
- Layer another set of ice cream sandwiches on top.
- Spread the whipped topping evenly over the ice cream sandwiches.
- Drizzle the strawberry ice cream topping over the whipped topping.
- Scatter the sliced strawberries on top.
- Freeze the cake for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- For best results, make sure to freeze the cake for at least 4 hours to allow it to set properly.
- You can adjust the amount of strawberry shortcake topping and whipped topping based on your personal preference for sweetness and texture.
- Feel free to garnish with additional fresh strawberries or other berries for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 140mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg