Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 packages (8 oz / 225 g each) cream cheese – softened
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy whipping cream – cold
• 1 cup (120 g) powdered sugar – sifted
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 box (14 oz / 400 g) graham crackers
• 3 cups (450 g) fresh strawberries – hulled and sliced
• Optional garnish: whipped cream, extra strawberries, or mint leaves

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prep the Strawberries

Wash, hull, and slice the strawberries into even pieces. Pat them dry with a paper towel to prevent excess moisture from watering down the layers.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy.
2. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Beat again until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
4. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until fully incorporated and creamy.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. In a rectangular baking dish (9×13 inches / 23×33 cm), start with a layer of graham crackers, breaking pieces as needed to fit.
2. Spread a third of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crackers.
3. Add a layer of sliced strawberries on top.
4. Repeat the process: graham crackers → cream cheese mixture → strawberries, until you have three layers.
5. Finish with a final layer of cream cheese and strawberries on top for a beautiful presentation.

Step 4: Chill the Cake

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours, but overnight is best. This allows the graham crackers to soften into a cake-like texture.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

When ready to serve, slice into neat squares. Garnish with extra strawberries, whipped cream swirls, or fresh mint for a bakery-style finish.

Tips for Success

• Softening the crackers: The longer it chills, the better the layers meld. Overnight is ideal.
• Fruit variations: Swap strawberries with blueberries, peaches, or raspberries for seasonal twists.
• Lighter version: Use reduced-fat cream cheese and light whipped topping instead of heavy cream.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Cream Cheese Icebox Cake is proof that a delicious dessert doesn’t need to be complicated. With just a few everyday ingredients and zero oven time, you’ll have a dreamy, creamy cake that looks as good as it tastes. It’s the ultimate cool, comforting dessert that brings smiles at any gathering.