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Strawberry shortcake ice cream cake with layers of cake, ice cream, and fresh strawberries

Delightful Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake Recipe

This no-bake ice cream cake layers creamy vanilla ice cream with fresh strawberries and crumbled shortcake for a delightful summer dessert. It's a refreshing and impressive treat that's surprisingly easy to make.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • mixing bowls
  • knife
  • spatula
  • plastic wrap

Ingredients
  

  • 1 store-bought pound cake or angel food cake, sliced or homemade shortcake biscuits
  • 1.5 quarts vanilla ice cream, softened or strawberry ice cream
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced plus more for garnish
  • ¼ cup granulated sugar for macerating strawberries
  • 1 cup whipped cream for topping
  • ¼ cup crushed shortbread cookies or graham crackers for decoration

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the cake layer: Slice the pound cake or angel food cake into 1/2-inch thick rounds or squares. Arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan, pressing them together to form a base. You can also use homemade shortcake biscuits.
  • Macerate the strawberries: In a bowl, combine the sliced strawberries with granulated sugar. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release their juices and soften slightly.
  • Assemble the ice cream layer: Spread the softened vanilla ice cream evenly over the cake base in the springform pan. If using strawberry ice cream, you can swirl it with the vanilla or use it as a separate layer.
  • Add the strawberry layer: Spoon the macerated strawberries and their juices over the ice cream layer. Gently spread them out.
  • Add the second cake layer (optional): If you have enough cake, you can add another layer of cake slices on top of the strawberries.
  • Freeze the cake: Cover the springform pan tightly with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4-6 hours, or until firm. For best results, freeze overnight.
  • Decorate and serve: Once firm, remove the springform pan sides. Top the cake with whipped cream and garnish with additional fresh strawberries and crushed cookies. Slice and serve immediately.

Notes

For a more intense strawberry flavor, you can lightly mash some of the strawberries before adding them. Ensure the ice cream is softened but not melted for easier spreading.
Keyword easy ice cream cake, no-bake ice cream cake, strawberry shortcake ice cream cake, summer dessert