Description
This Easy Berry Icebox Cake is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring whipped cream, fresh strawberries and blueberries, and crispy graham crackers. It is simple to assemble and chilled for a few hours to set, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings or warm days.
Ingredients
Whipped Cream Mixture
- 3 cups (720ml) cold heavy cream or heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup (40g) confectioners’ sugar
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
- 1/2 teaspoon pure almond extract
Layers
- 20–21 full-sheet graham crackers
- 2 cups (380g) sliced fresh strawberries
- 1 cup (140g) fresh blueberries
Optional Garnish
- Additional berries (strawberries, blueberries)
- Star sprinkles
Instructions
- Prepare the Whipped Cream: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer fitted with a whisk attachment, beat the cold heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract, and almond extract on medium-high speed until medium peaks form, about 4 minutes.
- Prep the Pan: Spread a very thin layer of whipped cream, just a couple of tablespoons, onto the bottom of an ungreased 9×13-inch pan to help the graham crackers stick.
- First Layer: Arrange about 7 graham crackers (whole or broken to fit) evenly over the whipped cream base.
- Layer with Whipped Cream and Strawberries: Spread about 2 cups of whipped cream over the graham crackers, then top with a layer of sliced strawberries.
- Second Layer: Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the strawberries, followed by 2 cups of whipped cream and then the blueberries.
- Final Layer: Finish with a final layer of graham crackers and spread the remaining whipped cream evenly on top.
- Chill: Cover the cake with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 3 hours, or up to 48 hours, to allow the graham crackers to soften and flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with additional fresh berries and star sprinkles if desired. Slice the cake with a small narrow spatula for clean servings and serve cold.
Notes
- The icebox cake layers soften as it chills, so slicing it after refrigeration is easier.
- Use very cold heavy cream straight from the fridge for best whipping results.
- You can substitute the berries with other seasonal fruits like raspberries or blackberries.
- Almond extract is optional but adds a nice subtle flavor; adjust to taste.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free graham crackers.
- This dessert keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days but is best eaten within 24 hours for optimal texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American