Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake: A No-Bake Summer Dream
If you’re craving a dessert that’s light, luscious, and irresistibly creamy—without ever turning on the oven—this Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is the one. With layers of buttery graham crackers, velvety cream cheese filling, and juicy fresh strawberries, it’s a classic no-bake treat that tastes like summer in every bite. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or backyard get-togethers, it’s the kind of dessert that always vanishes first from the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
No baking required – a truly effortless dessert.
Beautiful layers that impress guests every time.
Creamy, fruity, and refreshing—perfect for any warm day.
Easy to customize with your favorite fruits or toppings.
Ingredients
For the Layers:
2 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, softened
1 cup powdered sugar
2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3–4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
1 (14.4-ounce) box graham crackers
For the Topping:
Extra sliced strawberries
Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened cream cheese and powdered sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully combined and silky smooth.
2. Assemble the Layers
Spread a thin layer of the cream mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish to anchor the crackers. Place a layer of graham crackers over the cream, breaking pieces to fit the dish. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese mixture over the crackers, then top evenly with sliced strawberries. Repeat the layers—graham crackers, cream filling, strawberries—until you’ve used all ingredients, finishing with a layer of cream on top.
3. Chill Until Set
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, or overnight for the best texture. The graham crackers will absorb moisture from the cream and turn beautifully soft, creating a cake-like consistency.
4. Garnish & Serve
Right before serving, top with extra sliced strawberries and dollops of whipped cream. Slice into squares and serve chilled for a refreshing, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Tips for the Best Icebox Cake
Use fresh, ripe strawberries for maximum flavor and color.
Let it chill overnight—the longer it sits, the softer and creamier it becomes.
For a twist, try swapping strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries.
Use chocolate or cinnamon graham crackers for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chilled dessert with iced tea, lemonade, or a light rosé for a dreamy summer pairing.
Drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.
Perfect for BBQs, brunches, and special occasions.
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture gets even better as it chills!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
A: Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well first. Excess liquid can make the layers too soft.
Q: Can I prepare this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! It’s best made a day in advance since the graham crackers need time to soften and absorb the creamy filling.
Q: Can I substitute Cool Whip for whipped cream?
A: Yes, you can use an 8-ounce tub of Cool Whip in place of whipped cream for an even quicker version.
Q: How do I make this dessert lighter?
A: Use reduced-fat cream cheese, light whipped topping, and a sugar substitute if desired.
Q: Can I use different fruits?
A: Definitely! Blueberries, raspberries, mangoes, or peaches work beautifully in this recipe.
Sweet, creamy, and bursting with berry flavor, this Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is the kind of dessert that feels fancy but couldn’t be simpler to make. Every bite is cool, dreamy perfection—proof that the best summer desserts don’t need an oven at all.