If you’re looking for the ultimate no-bake treat that combines luscious creaminess with the sweet tang of juicy berries, the Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is about to become your new favorite dessert. Layers of crisp graham crackers, dreamy whipped cream cheese filling, and vibrant fresh strawberries all meld together in the fridge to create a cake that’s as showstopping to serve as it is simple to make. Whether for a summer BBQ, a brunch with friends, or a weeknight craving, this stunning treat has earned its place as a beloved classic—get those strawberries ready!

Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dessert celebrates just a handful of simple ingredients, each bringing something special to the party—fresh berries for brightness, whipped cream for lightness, and graham crackers for the perfect tender bite. Here’s what you’ll need for a beautiful Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake:

Fresh strawberries (2 lbs, hulled and sliced): Sweet, juicy, and bright, strawberries are the undeniable star of the show.
Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): This whips up into billowy clouds, giving the filling its pillowy soft texture.
Powdered sugar (1/2 cup): Adds just-right sweetness and helps stabilize the whipped cream for gorgeous layering.
Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Delivers that signature tangy richness that takes this cake from simple to spectacular.
Vanilla extract (1 tsp): A dash infuses every bite with that classic cozy, comforting aroma.
Graham crackers (1 box, 14.4 oz): Provide the magic “cake” layers that absorb flavors and soften into a fork-tender reveal.
Extra strawberries for garnish (optional): Slices or whole berries on top make for an irresistible presentation and an extra fruity kick.

How to Make Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake

Step 1: Whip the Cream

Start by pouring your heavy whipping cream into a large mixing bowl along with the powdered sugar. Beat with a hand mixer or stand mixer until robust, glossy peaks form. You’re looking for a thick, sturdy whipped cream that can hold its shape—this ensures your layers stay lofty and light. Just be careful not to overmix, or you’ll veer into butter territory!

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a separate bowl, soften your cream cheese so it’s easy to blend (a quick rest on the counter does the trick). Beat it until smooth and lump-free, then add in the vanilla extract. Keep mixing until the vanilla is distributed evenly for a rich, aromatic base.

Step 3: Fold and Fluff

Take your freshly whipped cream and gently fold it into the beaten cream cheese mixture. Use a spatula and a light hand to keep the texture airy and smooth. This combination is pure magic—the tangy, velvety richness pairs perfectly with the soft berries and crunchy crackers.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Now, the fun part: assembly time! Spread a thin layer of your cream mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish—just enough to stop the crackers from sticking. Lay down a single layer of graham crackers, breaking pieces as needed to fit. Next, spread a generous layer of the cream cheese filling over the crackers, then top with a hearty scattering of sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers (crackers, cream, strawberries) until you’re out of ingredients, finishing with a final swoop of creamy filling and a flourish of fresh strawberries on top.

Step 5: Chill and Set

Cover your masterpiece tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight if you can!). The wait is worth it: the graham crackers soak up the creamy filling and transform into soft, cake-like layers, while the flavors all meld together deliciously. When ready to serve, slice and wow your crowd!

How to Serve Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake

Garnishes

When it comes to finishing touches, a little flair goes a long way! Pile on extra slices of fresh strawberries, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or even drizzle with a little melted white chocolate for a special occasion. A few mint sprigs also make a gorgeous, refreshing accent.

Side Dishes

This Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is truly the star, but it plays well with light accompaniments like lemon sorbet, vanilla ice cream, or a crisp glass of chilled rosé for the grown-ups. If you’re serving it for brunch, consider fruit salad or a platter of mixed summer berries to complete the theme.

Creative Ways to Present

Try assembling individual portions in mason jars for a charming picnic treat, or use a trifle bowl for an eye-catching centerpiece. Layer mini versions in clear cups for parties, or add a pop of color by swapping in a mix of berries—raspberries and blueberries look stunning alongside strawberries!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake tightly covered in the fridge. It holds up beautifully for up to three days, though the crackers will continue to soften (in the best possible way!). If you notice any pooling strawberry juices, a quick dab with a paper towel before serving revives its fresh look.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for another day, good news—this cake freezes well! Simply wrap individual slices or the whole pan tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving; the creamy layers and fruit maintain their texture and flavor remarkably well after freezing.

Reheating

You won’t need to reheat this treat—Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is meant to be served delightfully cold. If you’ve frozen it, just let it thaw completely in the refrigerator before you dig in for best results.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries will work in a pinch, but thaw them completely and blot off any excess moisture to prevent the cake from becoming too watery. Fresh strawberries offer the best color and flavor for this dessert.

How far in advance can I make Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake?

You can make this cake up to 24 hours ahead. In fact, preparing it the night before allows the graham crackers to fully soften and the flavors to get even better by the next day.

Can I use Cool Whip instead of homemade whipped cream?

Absolutely! Cool Whip is a convenient shortcut and holds up nicely in the layers. Just swap it in for the whipped cream and powdered sugar, making the process even quicker.

Can I add other fruits or mix-ins?

Definitely! Feel free to fold in raspberries, blueberries, or even slices of ripe banana. You can also sprinkle toasted almonds or mini chocolate chips between the layers for added crunch and flavor.

What size dish should I use?

This recipe is designed for a 9×13-inch baking dish, which gives plenty of room for layers and easy slicing. If you want thicker layers, you could use a slightly smaller dish, but you may need to adjust the quantities.

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistibly joyful about sharing a Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake with your favorite people—especially when it’s so easy to whip up and so stunning on the table. Try it for your next gathering or family celebration and watch everyone fall in love with each spoonful. Happy layering!

Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake Recipe

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4.8 from 6 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with this Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake. A no-bake dessert that layers graham crackers with a luscious strawberry and cream mixture, creating a heavenly treat that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Fresh Strawberries:

2 lbs fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

Whipped Cream:

2 cups heavy whipping cream

Powdered Sugar:

1/2 cup

Cream Cheese Mixture:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract

Graham Crackers:

1 box (14.4 oz)

Extra Strawberries:

for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Prepare Whipped Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In another bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth, then mix in the vanilla extract. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese until well combined and fluffy.
Layer the Cake: Spread a thin layer of the cream mixture in a 9×13-inch dish. Alternate layers of graham crackers, cream mixture, and sliced strawberries. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with cream and strawberries on top.
Chill and Serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. Slice and serve chilled, optionally garnished with extra strawberries.