This easy, Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is the perfect summer dessert. With its layers of creamy strawberry ice cream, a delicious Golden Oreo crust, and a homemade strawberry crunch topping, it’s reminiscent of your favorite strawberry crunch ice cream bars. This treat is ideal for birthdays, picnics, or any sunny day gathering. The best part? It’s incredibly simple to make—just assemble the layers and let it chill!

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Crust
- For the Filling
- For the Frosting
- For the Topping
- How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
- Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
- Step 2: Make the Oreo Crust
- Step 3: Add Strawberry Ice Cream Layer
- Step 4: Create Frosting Layer
- Step 5: Finish with Strawberry Crunch Topping
- Step 6: Freeze and Serve
- How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
- Pair with Fresh Berries
- Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- Add Whipped Topping
- Serve with Ice Cream
- Garnish with Mint Leaves
- How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
- Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
- Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?
- How long does it take to make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?
- Can I customize the flavors?
- How should I serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delightful cake in no time.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the combination of strawberry ice cream and crunchy cookies; it’s sure to impress.
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion, from birthday parties to summer barbecues.
- No Baking Required: A fantastic option when you want a cool dessert without turning on the oven.
- Customizable: Easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is straightforward with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 8×8 inch (20×20 cm) pan
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- 8×8 inch pan: The perfect size for layering your cake and ensuring even freezing.
- Electric mixer: Makes mixing the frosting quick and effortless, achieving a smooth consistency.
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil: Helps with easy removal of the cake from the pan after it’s set.

Ingredients
To create this delightful Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake, gather 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 Filling
- 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 (20×20 cm) pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil so that there’s an overhang around the edges. This will help you remove the cake easily after it sets.
Step 2: Make the Oreo Crust
- In a mixing bowl, crush the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs.
- Mix in melted butter until well combined.
- Press this mixture evenly into the bottom of your prepared pan.
Step 3: Add Strawberry Ice Cream Layer
- Allow strawberry ice cream to soften slightly at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
- Spread half of the softened strawberry ice cream over the crust layer evenly.
Step 4: Create Frosting Layer
- In another bowl, beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth and fluffy.
- Spread this frosting over the first layer of strawberry ice cream.
Step 5: Finish with Strawberry Crunch Topping
- Crush freeze dried strawberries and remaining Golden Oreos into a crumbly texture.
- Sprinkle this mix generously over the frosting layer.
Step 6: Freeze and Serve
- Add remaining strawberry ice cream on top and smoothen out.
- Cover with plastic wrap and freeze for at least four hours until firm.
- Once set, lift out using parchment paper overhang and cut into pieces to serve.
Enjoy this refreshing Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake as a sweet treat for any occasion!
How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
Serving your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake can elevate any occasion. This dessert pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments that enhance its delightful flavors.
Pair with Fresh Berries
- Fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries on the side can add a burst of flavor and color to your dessert plate.
Drizzle with Chocolate Sauce
- A rich chocolate sauce drizzled over the top adds a decadent touch and contrasts nicely with the strawberry ice cream.
Add Whipped Topping
- A dollop of whipped cream on each slice enhances creaminess and provides a light texture that balances the cake’s richness.
Serve with Ice Cream
- For an extra indulgence, serve a scoop of plain vanilla or strawberry ice cream alongside each slice for an even cooler treat.
Garnish with Mint Leaves
- Fresh mint leaves not only add a pop of color but also provide a refreshing herbal note that complements the strawberries.
How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
Creating a perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake can be simple if you follow these tips. Each step ensures your cake turns out just right.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality strawberry ice cream and fresh strawberries to enhance flavor.
- Chill Properly: Allow the cake to freeze completely before serving to ensure clean slices.
- Soften Butter Slightly: Use slightly softened butter for frosting. This helps achieve a creamy consistency.
- Layer Evenly: Ensure each layer is spread evenly for balanced flavor and texture in every bite.
- Add Crunch Topping Last: Sprinkle your homemade strawberry crunch topping right before serving to keep it crispy.
Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
Complementing your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake with side dishes can make your meal more festive. Here are some great options:
- Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the sweet cake.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites offer creamy richness that pairs well with the lightness of the ice cream cake.
- Lemon Sorbet: A tangy lemon sorbet serves as a palate cleanser between bites of sweet dessert.
- Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These treats bring an elegant touch that resonates with the main dessert’s flavors.
- Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: The caramelized pineapple adds sweetness and unique flavor to balance the strawberry notes.
- Vanilla Pudding Cups: Silky vanilla pudding cups offer a smooth texture that complements the crunchiness of your cake.
- Coconut Macaroons: Chewy coconut macaroons introduce an additional layer of sweetness and chewiness.
- Grilled Peaches: Warm, grilled peaches brushed with honey create a delicious contrast to the cold ice cream cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake turns out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to watch for.
- Skipping the parchment paper: Not lining your pan can make it difficult to remove the cake. Always use parchment paper or foil for easy lifting.
- Overmixing the frosting: This can lead to a grainy texture. Mix just until combined for a smooth finish.
- Using hard ice cream: If your strawberry ice cream is too hard, it will be tough to spread. Let it soften at room temperature for about 10 minutes before using.
- Not measuring ingredients properly: Accurate measurements are crucial for the right taste and texture. Use measuring cups and spoons for all ingredients.
- Leaving it out too long: Allowing the cake to sit out in warm temperatures can cause it to melt. Serve immediately after slicing or keep it chilled.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
- Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm individual slices for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a single slice on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a non-stick skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a delicious dessert combining layers of strawberry ice cream, vanilla frosting, and a crunchy cookie base. It’s perfect for summer gatherings!
How long does it take to make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?
The total time to make this cake is approximately 270 minutes, including freezing time. The prep time is around 30 minutes.
Can I customize the flavors?
Absolutely! You can swap strawberry ice cream for other flavors like vanilla or chocolate. Add different toppings such as nuts or sprinkles for variety.
How should I serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake?
This cake is best served cold directly from the freezer. Slice into squares and enjoy on warm days as a refreshing treat.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly delicious. This dessert brings together creamy textures and fruity flavors that everyone will love. Feel free to experiment with different ice cream flavors or toppings to make this treat uniquely yours!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 9
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of summer with this easy Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake. Perfect for warm days and special occasions, this no-bake dessert features creamy layers of strawberry ice cream, a crunchy Golden Oreo crust, and a homemade strawberry crunch topping. With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can assemble this stunning cake and let it chill until firm.
Ingredients
- 22 Golden Oreos (or vanilla sandwich cookies)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 pints strawberry ice cream
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter (slightly softened)
- 2–3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (or whipping cream)
- 1/4 cup freeze dried strawberries
- 10 Golden Oreos (or other vanilla sandwich cookies)
Instructions
- Prepare an 8×8 inch pan by lining it with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
- Crush the Golden Oreos into fine crumbs and mix with melted butter. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
- Allow the strawberry ice cream to soften slightly, then spread half over the crust.
- Beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, salt, vanilla extract, and milk until smooth; spread over the first layer of ice cream.
- Crush freeze-dried strawberries and remaining Golden Oreos; sprinkle over the frosting layer.
- Add the remaining strawberry ice cream on top and smooth out. Cover and freeze for at least four hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg