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Cozy No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake

strawberry shortcake icebox cake - featured image
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A no-bake summer dessert featuring layers of macerated strawberries, fluffy whipped cream, and tender shortbread cookies that soften into a cake-like texture. Perfect for hot days when you want a crowd-pleasing treat without turning on the oven.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 1/4-inch thick)
  • 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 cups heavy cream, cold
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • 2 packages (about 10 ounces each) shortbread cookies

Instructions

  1. Macerate the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently to coat. Let sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
  2. Whip the cream: In a large mixing bowl, combine cold heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract (if using). Beat on medium speed until soft peaks form, about 3 to 4 minutes. Do not over-whip.
  3. Layer one (bottom): Arrange a single layer of shortbread cookies on the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan. Break a few cookies to fill gaps. Spoon about one-third of the strawberry mixture over the cookies, including some syrup. Spread evenly.
  4. Layer two (cream): Spread about one-third of the whipped cream over the strawberries.
  5. Repeat layers: Add another layer of shortbread cookies, then another third of strawberries and syrup, then another third of cream. Repeat one more time, ending with a final layer of cream on top.
  6. Finish and chill: Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but overnight (12 to 24 hours) is better.
  7. Serve: Remove the springform pan sides. Run a sharp knife under hot water, wipe dry, and slice. Garnish with fresh strawberry slices or mint if desired.

Notes

Maceration step is non-negotiable for proper texture. Do not over-whip cream. Chill overnight for best results. Keep cake cold until serving. For gluten-free version, use gluten-free shortbread cookies. For dairy-free, use full-fat coconut cream and dairy-free condensed milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake dessert, strawberry shortcake, icebox cake, summer dessert, easy dessert, no oven dessert, shortbread cookies, strawberry dessert

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/cozy-no-bake-strawberry-shortcake-icebox-cake-easy-summer-dessert/