Hamdi Saidani This Pioneer Woman Strawberry Icebox Cake is a creamy and refreshing no-bake recipe, which is made with fresh strawberries and graham crackers. It’s the perfect summer dessert, ready in about 20 minutes, plus chilling time.
Pioneer Woman Strawberry Icebox Cake Ingredients
A simple, no-bake combination for a light and fruity dessert.
- 1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 3 cups heavy cream, divided
- 1 Tbsp. vanilla bean paste or extract
- 1 Tbsp. lemon zest
- 20 graham cracker sheets
- 1 1/2 lb. fresh strawberries, sliced about 1/4-inch thick (about 4 1/2 cups)
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted (optional)
How To Make Pioneer Woman Strawberry Icebox Cake
A step-by-step guide to this incredibly easy and delicious no-bake treat.
- Make the Cream Filling: In the bowl of a stand mixer, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and beat again until well combined. Scrape down the sides of the bowl.
- Whip the Cream: With the mixer on low, pour in 1 cup of the heavy cream and mix until smooth. Add the remaining 2 cups of heavy cream and increase the speed to medium-high. Beat until soft peaks form, then gently fold in the vanilla and lemon zest.
- Start the Layers: Spread a thin layer (about 1/4 cup) of the cream mixture on the bottom of a 9×9-inch pan. This helps the first layer of crackers stay in place.
- Assemble the First Layer: Arrange a single, even layer of graham crackers on top of the cream, breaking them as needed to fit the pan. Spread about 1 1/2 cups of the cream mixture over the crackers, followed by an even layer of about 1 1/2 cups of sliced strawberries. Sprinkle with 1/4 cup of almonds, if using.
- Repeat and Finish: Repeat the layers once more: graham crackers, cream mixture, strawberries, and almonds. Top this with a final layer of graham crackers, the remaining cream mixture, and the last of the strawberries.
- Chill and Serve: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
Recipe Tips
For the most delicious and perfectly set icebox cake.
- Why is chilling so important? The “icebox” part of the name refers to the refrigerator. Chilling is the most crucial step, as it’s what transforms the crunchy graham crackers into a soft, cake-like texture. A minimum of 4 hours is needed, but overnight is even better for the best result.
- How to get the best whipped cream filling? Make sure your heavy cream is very cold before you start whipping. This will help it whip up faster and create a more stable, voluminous filling. Using a chilled bowl and beaters also helps.
- Can I use a different fruit? Absolutely! This recipe is a fantastic template for other fruits. Sliced peaches, raspberries, blueberries, or a mix of berries would all be delicious.
- What if I don’t have a stand mixer? You can easily make this with a hand mixer. It will just take a bit more time to whip the cream to soft peaks.
What To Serve With Strawberry Icebox Cake
This light, creamy dessert is perfect on its own.
This refreshing cake is a complete dessert, especially on a warm day. It’s lovely served with:
- A sprig of fresh mint for garnish
- A drizzle of chocolate or balsamic glaze
- A glass of iced tea or lemonade
How To Store Strawberry Icebox Cake
Keeping your no-bake cake fresh.
- Refrigerate: This cake must be stored in the refrigerator. Keep it covered tightly with plastic wrap. It’s at its best within the first 2-3 days, as the crackers will continue to soften over time.
Pioneer Woman Strawberry Icebox Cake Nutrition Facts
An estimated guide per serving.
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Protein: 5 g
- Fat: 35 g
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and cooking methods used.
FAQs
Can I make this dessert in a different-shaped dish?
Yes. A standard 8×8-inch pan or a 9-inch round springform pan would also work well. You could even use a loaf pan and slice it for a different presentation.
Why is my filling runny?
If the filling is too soft, it usually means the heavy cream was not whipped long enough. Be sure to beat it until it holds u0022soft peaks,u0022 which means when you lift the beaters, a peak forms that holds its shape for a moment before gently folding over on itself.
Can I freeze this icebox cake?
Yes, this dessert freezes beautifully. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to a month. Let it thaw in the refrigerator for about an hour before slicing and serving for a firmer, more u0022ice cream cakeu0022 like texture.
Try More Pioneer Woman Recipes:
- Pioneer Woman Pumpkin Poke Cake Recipe
- Pioneer Woman Key Lime Cake Recipe
- Pioneer Woman Hummingbird Cake Recipe
Pioneer Woman Strawberry Icebox Cake Recipe
Description
An easy, refreshing no-bake dessert featuring layers of graham crackers, a light lemon-kissed cream cheese whipped cream, and fresh sliced strawberries.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.
- Gradually beat in the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Fold in vanilla and lemon zest.
- Spread a thin layer of cream in a 9×9-inch pan.
- Create layers: graham crackers, about 1 1/2 cups of cream, then 1 1/2 cups of sliced strawberries.
- Repeat the layers once more, then top with a final layer of graham crackers, cream, and berries.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
- u003cliu003eChilling the cake overnight yields the best cake-like texture as the graham crackers fully soften.u003c/liu003eu003cliu003eEnsure the heavy cream is very cold for the best results when whipping.u003c/liu003eu003cliu003eThe almonds add a nice crunch but can be omitted for a completely soft texture.u003c/liu003eu003cliu003eThis dessert is perfect for making a day ahead of a party or gathering.u003c/liu003e
