Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-487187H44M40S
Total time: 14 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 22 Golden Oreos (or vanilla sandwich cookies); 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted); 2 pints strawberry ice cream; 3/4 cup unsalted butter (softened); 2-3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries

Recipe By:

Alexandra

Posted:

July 12, 2025

Updated:

July 12, 2025

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This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a delightful summer treat that combines the luscious flavors of strawberry and cream. Perfect for birthdays, picnics, or any festive occasion, this dessert features a buttery Golden Oreo crust, creamy strawberry ice cream, and a delicious homemade strawberry crunch topping. With its eye-catching layers and refreshing taste, it’s sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Assemble: This recipe requires minimal preparation time—just layer and freeze.
Deliciously Creamy: The combination of strawberry ice cream and vanilla frosting creates a rich, satisfying dessert.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a summer barbecue, this cake fits right in.
Customizable Layers: Feel free to mix in your favorite flavors or toppings to make it your own.
Fun Texture: The contrast of the crunchy topping with creamy layers makes every bite exciting.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

8×8 inch pan (20×20 cm)
Parchment paper or aluminum foil
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Electric mixer: This tool ensures that your frosting is light and fluffy, making it easy to spread.
Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes allows for organized preparation of different components.
Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down bowls and folding ingredients gently without deflating mixtures.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Crust

22 Golden Oreos (wafers and filling, or other vanilla sandwich cookies)
1/4 cup unsalted butter (56 grams) (melted)

For the Ice Cream Layer

2 pints strawberry ice cream (1 litre)

For the Frosting

3/4 cup unsalted butter (168 grams) (slightly softened, but not starting to melt)
2-3 cups powdered sugar (220 – 330 grams)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3 tablespoons milk (30-45 ml) (or whipping cream)

For the Topping

1/4 cup freeze dried strawberries
10 Golden Oreos (or other vanilla sandwich cookies)

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

Line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Ensure there’s an overhang around the edges for easy removal later.

Step 2: Make the Crust

Crush 22 Golden Oreos into fine crumbs.
Combine crushed Oreos with melted butter in a bowl until well mixed.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of your prepared pan to form an even layer.

Step 3: Add Strawberry Ice Cream Layer

Let your strawberry ice cream soften slightly at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
Spread the softened ice cream evenly over the crust layer using a spatula.

Step 4: Prepare Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together softened butter with powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
Add salt, vanilla extract, and milk or whipping cream as needed for desired consistency.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

Spread the frosting over the strawberry ice cream layer evenly.
Place in freezer for at least 4 hours or until firm.

Step 6: Make Strawberry Crunch Topping

Crush remaining Golden Oreos along with freeze-dried strawberries in a bowl until crumbly.
Sprinkle this mixture generously over the top of your frosted cake before serving.

Now you have a stunning Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that everyone will love. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your experience.

Individual Servings

Serve in small squares for easy handling and enjoyment at parties or barbecues.

Toppings Galore

Add fresh strawberries or whipped cream on top for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

Use slices of the cake between two cookies for a fun twist on the classic ice cream sandwich.

Dessert Platter

Arrange slices on a platter with complementary desserts like brownies or cookies for a dessert table.

Pair with Beverages

Serve alongside iced tea or lemonade to enhance the refreshing summer vibe.

How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

To ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality strawberry ice cream and fresh strawberries can make a significant difference in flavor.
Chill Thoroughly: Allow each layer to chill properly before adding the next. This helps maintain structure.
Customize Flavors: Feel free to mix different flavors of ice cream or add additional layers for a unique twist.
Use Fresh Whipped Cream: Homemade whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the cake nicely.
Let It Rest: After assembling, let the cake sit in the freezer for a few hours to allow flavors to meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
Minted Watermelon: The refreshing taste of watermelon sprinkled with mint makes a perfect summer side.
Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These decadent treats complement the strawberry theme and add richness.
Lemon Sorbet: A tangy sorbet provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy ice cream cake.
Pineapple Skewers: Grilled pineapple skewers add a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs well with desserts.
Coconut Macaroons: These chewy cookies bring tropical flavors that work beautifully alongside strawberry desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake can be simple, but there are some common mistakes to watch out for.

Ignoring the butter temperature: Using melted butter instead of softened butter can change the texture of your frosting. Make sure the butter is slightly softened for the best results.
Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pan can lead to a messy removal. Always line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy serving.
Overmixing the frosting: Mixing too long can make your frosting too soft. Mix just until combined to maintain a thick and creamy consistency.
Not letting ice cream soften: Trying to spread hard ice cream will create a mess. Let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before spreading.
Not measuring ingredients accurately: Estimating can lead to imbalances in flavor and texture. Use precise measurements for the best outcome.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
It can last up to 2 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking every 10 seconds.
Stovetop: Place a slice in a pan over low heat, cover, and warm slowly for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different cookies for the crust?

Yes, you can substitute Golden Oreos with any vanilla sandwich cookies you prefer. Just ensure they have a similar texture for a good crust.

How do I customize my Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?

You can add extra layers of fruit or use different flavors of ice cream. Consider adding whipped cream on top or using chocolate cookies for a twist!

What’s the best way to serve this cake?

Slice it into squares and serve immediately after removing from the freezer. You can garnish with fresh strawberries or whipped cream if desired.

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

The prep time is about 30 minutes, but allow an additional few hours for freezing. Ideally, prepare it a day ahead if you want it perfectly set.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

Yes! You can use dairy-free butter and plant-based ice cream options to create a delicious dairy-free version of this cake.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Perfect for summer gatherings or special occasions, you can customize it easily based on your taste preferences. Don’t hesitate to try making this delightful dessert!