Description
This Strawberry Icebox Cake is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring fresh strawberries, whipped topping, and graham crackers. It’s a refreshing, creamy treat perfect for warm weather, requiring minimal prep and refrigerated chilling to achieve a soft, cake-like texture. The optional cream cheese adds richness, while the graham crackers soften beautifully after soaking and chilling.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 1 pound fresh strawberries (washed and sliced thin)
Filling
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese (softened, optional)
Base
- 1 box graham crackers
- 1 cup cold milk (optional, for softening graham crackers)
Instructions
- Prepare the dish: Use a 9×13 inch baking dish or a similar sized dish for layering your cake. Ensure it’s clean and dry before starting.
- Lay the graham crackers: Place a flat layer of graham crackers evenly along the bottom of the dish. If you prefer your cake softer sooner, briefly dip each cracker in cold milk for a few seconds before laying it down.
- Make the filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and whipped topping together until you achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. You can omit the cream cheese if you want a lighter filling.
- Layer the cake: Spread a layer of the cream mixture evenly over the graham crackers. Next, add a layer of sliced strawberries on top of the cream. Repeat alternating layers of graham crackers dipped in milk, cream mixture, and strawberries until all ingredients are used, ending with a top layer of strawberries for a beautiful finish.
- Chill: Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. This chilling step softens the graham crackers and allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a moist, cake-like dessert.
Notes
- For a lighter version, omit the cream cheese and use only whipped topping.
- Dipping graham crackers in milk shortens softening time but is optional if you prefer crunchier layers.
- Refrigeration time is crucial for the cake’s texture; at least 4 hours recommended, overnight best.
- Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and sweetness.
- This cake is best served chilled and eaten within 2 days for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
