Berry Icebox Cake Recipe
Introduction
Berry Icebox Cake is a refreshing no-bake dessert perfect for warm days. Layers of crisp cookies, whipped cream, and fresh berries come together to create a light, fruity treat that’s easy to assemble and loved by all.
Ingredients
- 1 to 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 2 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 4 oz softened cream cheese (for extra richness)
- 1 package graham crackers or thin crisp cookies (about 8-10 full sheets)
Instructions
- Step 1: Whip the chilled heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. If using cream cheese, gently fold it in now for a richer, tangy flavor.
- Step 2: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers or thin cookies evenly on the bottom of your dish.
- Step 3: Spread a generous, even layer of the whipped cream mixture over the cookie layer, covering fully to help soften the cookies without sogginess.
- Step 4: Scatter an even layer of mixed fresh berries on top of the cream, pressing lightly to help the layers meld.
- Step 5: Repeat layering cookies, cream, and berries until the ingredients are used or the dish is filled, finishing with a smooth whipped cream layer on top.
- Step 6: Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 6 hours or overnight to let the cookies soften and flavors combine.
Tips & Variations
- Use any combination of your favorite berries, or substitute with sliced peaches or kiwi for a twist.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts between layers.
- Swap graham crackers for chocolate wafer cookies to add a rich chocolate flavor.
Storage
Store the assembled icebox cake covered in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, you can slice and enjoy directly from the fridge. No reheating needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this cake without cream cheese?
Yes, the cream cheese is optional and adds richness, but the cake is delicious with just whipped cream and vanilla.
How long should the cake chill before serving?
Chill the cake for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld perfectly.
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Berry Icebox Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Berry Icebox Cake is a light and refreshing no-bake dessert that layers crisp graham crackers, whipped cream, and fresh mixed berries. Chilled overnight, the cake softens into a custard-like texture perfect for warm days or elegant occasions. The optional cream cheese adds extra richness and tanginess, balancing the sweetness of the berries and cream.
Ingredients
Berry Icebox Cake Ingredients
- 1 to 2 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 2 cups heavy cream, chilled
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 4 oz softened cream cheese (for extra richness)
- 1 package graham crackers or thin crisp cookies (about 8–10 full sheets)
Instructions
- Prepare the whipped cream mixture: Whip the chilled heavy cream together with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. For extra richness and a tangy flavor, gently fold in softened cream cheese until well combined.
- Layer the cookies: Arrange a single layer of graham crackers or thin cookies evenly on the base of your chosen dish, which can be round or rectangular.
- Add a layer of cream: Spread a generous and even layer of the whipped cream mixture over the cookie layer, ensuring full coverage to allow the cookies to absorb moisture without becoming soggy.
- Add fresh berries: Scatter an even layer of mixed fresh berries over the cream, pressing down lightly to help the layers meld together.
- Repeat layers: Continue alternating layers of cookies, cream, and berries until ingredients are used up or the dish is filled, ending with a final smooth layer of whipped cream on top.
- Chill overnight: Cover the assembled cake and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the cookies to soften to a cake-like texture and the flavors to fully meld.
Notes
- Use a mix of fresh berries to add vibrant flavor and texture to the cake.
- The optional cream cheese adds tang and richness but can be omitted for a lighter dessert.
- Ensure the cream is well chilled before whipping to achieve soft peaks.
- Chilling time is essential for the cookies to absorb moisture and soften properly, so don’t skip the overnight refrigeration.
- This dessert is best served cold and within 2 days of assembly for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: berry icebox cake, no-bake dessert, whipped cream cake, mixed berry dessert, graham cracker cake
