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This Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake has been the star of many of my family’s summer get-togethers Simple to assemble and bursting with fresh berry flavor it is perfect for warm days when you do not want to turn on the oven
Every time I make this cake I think of our first lake picnic when I carried it out in a cooler and everyone dove in before I could even set out plates
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries: Choose the reddest berries you can find for sweetness and slice thinly for even layers
- Granulated sugar: Helps draw juices from the berries if you want softer fruit layers
- Cream cheese: Use full fat softened cream cheese for luscious flavor and texture
- Powdered sugar: Dissolves easily into the filling for a smooth sweet result
- Vanilla extract: Round out the flavors with real vanilla for best taste
- Heavy whipping cream or whipped topping: Gives the cake its fluffy lightness homemade whipped cream tastes especially fresh
- Graham crackers: Look for crisp sheets that snap cleanly These become cake like as they chill
- Additional strawberries: Adds a burst of color and fresh taste for garnish
- Crushed graham crackers: Handy for a finishing touch of crunch
- Fresh mint: Brightens the look and flavor with just a few leaves
Step by Step Instructions
- Prep the strawberries:
- Wash hull and slice the strawberries thinly To give them a soft syrupy texture toss with a little sugar and let them sit for 10 to 15 minutes so they release their natural juices
- Mix the cream cheese layer:
- In a large bowl beat the cream cheese until smooth and silky Add powdered sugar and vanilla and mix until fluffy Whip the heavy cream in a separate bowl until it forms stiff peaks Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to keep it airy and light
- Build the first layer:
- Spread a thin layer of the cream cheese filling at the bottom of your dish This keeps the crackers from slipping Lay down a single layer of graham cracker sheets so the base is fully covered
- Make the cake layers:
- Spoon a third of the cream cheese mixture over the crackers and use a spatula to spread evenly Add a third of the strawberries on top Repeat the process layering graham crackers cream cheese and strawberries until you finish with cream cheese and berries at the top
- Chill and set:
- Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight This is key so the graham crackers absorb moisture and transform into delicious cake like layers
- Add fresh garnish:
- Before serving top with extra strawberry slices crushed graham crackers and a few mint leaves for a fresh look Slice gently and serve chilled
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My favorite part is always tasting the slices where the strawberries have created a pink swirl in the cream layer This cake began as a quick fix dessert but became a constant request at our family picnics My kids call it the pretty strawberry lasagna
Storage Tips
Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days The cake holds up best if kept chilled and slices cleanly when cold If you need to keep it longer individual slices can be wrapped and frozen then thawed in the fridge
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use frozen strawberries in place of fresh in a pinch thaw them first and pat dry as best you can Light or neufchâtel cream cheese works if you prefer a lighter version If you are out of graham crackers vanilla wafer cookies can swap in with a lovely result
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Serving Suggestions
This cake is a crowd pleaser on its own but you can add whipped cream or drizzle with a little homemade berry sauce For special occasions I like to add edible flowers for a pop of color Serve chilled with coffee or sparkling lemonade
Cultural and Historical Context
Icebox cakes became popular in the early days of home refrigeration vintage cooks loved the ease of layering cookies and cream and letting time do the work Each family seems to have its own twist but the strawberry cream cheese version feels like a modern classic especially in berry season
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use frozen strawberries for this dessert?
While fresh strawberries offer the best texture and flavor, thawed frozen strawberries can be substituted in a pinch. Drain extra liquid for optimal results.
- → How far in advance can I prepare it?
This dessert can be assembled up to 24 hours ahead, giving the layers ample time to soften and the flavors to fully blend before serving.
- → What can I use instead of graham crackers?
Vanilla wafers or thin tea biscuits provide a similar texture and pair well with the creamy and fruity layers.
- → Can I substitute whipped topping for heavy cream?
Yes, whipped topping is a convenient alternative and creates a stable, fluffy filling. Choose based on your preferred taste and texture.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftover portions covered and refrigerated. Enjoy within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.