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Classic Creamy Old-Fashioned Strawberry Icebox Cake

classic creamy old-fashioned strawberry icebox cake - featured image
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A nostalgic no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy whipped cream, fresh strawberries, and crunchy graham crackers that soften into cake-like layers after chilling overnight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 whole graham cracker sheets (about 9 ounces / 255 grams), broken to fit dish
  • 2 cups (480 ml) cold heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) powdered sugar, sifted
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 4 cups (about 1 pound / 450 grams) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash, hull, and slice 4 cups of fresh strawberries. Set aside about 1/2 cup for topping. Optionally sprinkle lemon zest over strawberries.
  2. Pour 2 cups cold heavy cream into a chilled mixing bowl. Add 1/2 cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Beat on medium-high speed until soft to medium peaks form, about 3-5 minutes. Avoid overbeating.
  3. In an 8×8 inch pan, arrange a single layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom.
  4. Spread about one-third of the whipped cream evenly over the crackers using a spatula.
  5. Sprinkle one-third of the sliced strawberries on top of the cream.
  6. Repeat layering two more times: graham crackers, whipped cream, strawberries, ending with a final layer of whipped cream.
  7. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow graham crackers to soften and flavors to meld.
  8. Before serving, garnish the top with the reserved strawberries. Cut into squares with a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slices. Serve chilled.

Notes

Chill the mixing bowl and beaters before whipping cream for better results. Do not overbeat the cream to avoid turning it grainy. Dip knife in hot water between slices for clean cuts. Do not rush chilling time; at least 8 hours or overnight is essential for soft layers. Substitute coconut cream and gluten-free cookies for dairy-free and gluten-free versions respectively. Avoid freezing as it affects texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry icebox cake, no-bake dessert, summer dessert, creamy strawberry cake, old-fashioned dessert, graham cracker cake

Find it online: https://lumalunch.com/classic-creamy-old-fashioned-strawberry-icebox-cake-recipe-easy-step-by-step-guide/