Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the flavors of summer strawberries with the creaminess of ice cream. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any celebration, this no-bake treat stands out with its beautiful layers and refreshing taste. It’s easy to make and sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This cake requires no baking, making it quick and simple for anyone to prepare.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of strawberry shortcake ice cream and fresh strawberry sauce creates a deliciously sweet treat.
• Versatile Dessert: Ideal for various occasions, from casual family gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Stunning Presentation: The layered look makes this cake not only tasty but also visually appealing.
• Kid-Friendly: Kids will love helping with this fun and colorful dessert!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. These will help you achieve the best results while making the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A good mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spills.
• Saucepan: A saucepan is essential for preparing the strawberry sauce quickly and evenly.
• Whisk: Using a whisk ensures that your mixtures are smooth and well blended.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Sauce

• 4 cups frozen strawberries (about 520g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons corn starch

For the Cake Layers

• 2 litres Chapman’s Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
• 3 cups crushed vanilla cookies
• 1/2 cup melted butter

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the frozen strawberries, granulated sugar, and water.
2. Stir occasionally until the mixture begins to simmer.
3. In a small bowl, mix the corn starch with a bit of cold water until smooth. Add this mixture to the saucepan.
4. Continue to cook until thickened, about 5-10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Create Cookie Crust

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the crushed vanilla cookies with melted butter.
2. Mix well until all cookie crumbs are moistened.
3. Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish to form an even crust.

Step 3: Layer Ice Cream

1. Allow the Chapman’s Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream to soften slightly at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
2. Spread half of the softened ice cream over the cookie crust evenly.
3. Drizzle half of the cooled strawberry sauce on top of the ice cream layer.

Step 4: Final Layering

1. Repeat with another layer of ice cream followed by the remaining strawberry sauce on top.
2. Smooth out each layer using a rubber spatula for an even surface.

Step 5: Freeze

1. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
2. Freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once fully frozen, remove from freezer and let sit for about 10 minutes before slicing.
2. Serve chilled and enjoy your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Serving Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a delightful experience that can impress your guests. Here are some fun ways to present this beautiful dessert.

Individual Slices

• Serve each slice on a colorful dessert plate for a vibrant presentation.
• Garnish with fresh strawberries and a dollop of whipped cream for added flair.

Family Style

• Place the entire cake on a decorative cake stand in the center of the table.
• Allow guests to serve themselves, making it a fun and interactive dessert experience.

Sundae Style

• Crumble pieces of the ice cream cake into bowls.
• Top with extra strawberry sauce and whipped cream for a delicious sundae twist.

Picnic Style

• Cut the cake into portable slices and wrap them in parchment paper.
• Perfect for outdoor gatherings or casual get-togethers, adding convenience and charm.

How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Perfecting your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake can elevate your dessert game. Here are some easy tips to help you achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures.

• Use fresh strawberries: Fresh berries enhance the flavor of your homemade strawberry sauce, making it richer and more vibrant.
• Chill your mixing bowl: For whipped cream toppings, chilling the bowl helps achieve better peaks when whipping the cream.
• Layer evenly: Ensure that both the ice cream and cookie layers are spread evenly for consistent texture in every slice.
• Let it set: After assembling, freeze the cake for several hours or overnight to help all layers meld beautifully together.
• Add lemon zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest in your strawberry sauce can brighten up the flavors and add a refreshing twist.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake can enhance its enjoyment. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Minty Green Salad: A light salad with mint dressing can cleanse the palate between bites of rich ice cream cake.
3. Chocolate Covered Pretzels: The salty crunch pairs wonderfully with sweet flavors, providing texture contrast.
4. Cheese Platter: Include assorted cheeses with crackers for a savory option that complements dessert well.
5. Granola Parfaits: Layer yogurt, granola, and berries in cups for a healthy side that complements the cake’s flavors.
6. Beverages like Iced Tea: Refreshing iced tea can enhance the overall experience while keeping things light and enjoyable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake turns out perfectly.

• Skipping the chilling time: Not allowing the ice cream cake to chill properly can lead to a messy presentation. Always let it freeze for at least four hours before serving.
• Using stale cookies: Using old or stale cookies can affect the texture of the crust. Ensure your vanilla cookies are fresh for the best flavor and crunch.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can throw off the balance of flavors. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision when adding ingredients.
• Rushing the strawberry sauce: Allowing the strawberry sauce to cool completely is crucial for a great taste. Give it enough time after cooking before adding it to your cake.
• Overmixing the whipped cream: Overmixing can cause the cream to become grainy. Whip it until soft peaks form, then stop for a light texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

• If you want to save some for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months while maintaining its flavor and texture.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

• Oven: This dessert is best enjoyed cold, but if you want it slightly softened, place it in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for about 15-20 seconds to soften without melting.
• Stovetop: Not recommended as it may become too warm and lose its ice cream texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines layers of strawberry shortcake ice cream with a crunchy cookie crust and topped with homemade strawberry sauce.

How long does it take to make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?

The total time required is about 40 minutes, including prep and cook time. However, be sure to allow additional freezing time for best results.

Can I customize my Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?

Absolutely! You can experiment with different ice cream flavors or add crushed fruits between layers for added texture and flavor.

How do I serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?

Slice the cake using a warm knife for clean cuts. Serve chilled, optionally garnished with fresh strawberries or whipped cream.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is an irresistible dessert that blends creamy ice cream with crunchy cookie layers and sweet strawberry sauce. It’s perfect for any occasion, and you can easily customize it by adding your favorite fruits or using different cookie varieties. Don’t hesitate—try making this refreshing treat today!