Description

A refreshing, no-bake summer dessert featuring layers of vanilla wafers, homemade whipped cream, and macerated strawberries. This easy icebox cake transforms overnight in the fridge into a soft, cake-like treat without using an oven.

Ingredients

Scale

1 package (about 40 cookies / 225g) vanilla wafers
2 cups (480ml) heavy cream, cold
½ cup (60g) confectioners’ sugar
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1.5 pounds (680g) strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 tablespoons (25g) granulated sugar
2 tablespoons strawberry jam (optional)

Instructions

Hull and slice the strawberries. Toss them with granulated sugar and strawberry jam (if using). Let sit for at least 30 minutes to macerate and release juices.
In a large, chilled bowl, combine heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract. Whip on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form.
Line the bottom of an 8×8 inch glass baking dish with a single layer of vanilla wafers, breaking cookies as needed to fit.
Spread half of the whipped cream evenly over the cookie layer.
Scatter half of the macerated strawberries and a generous spoonful of the syrup over the cream.
Add a second layer of vanilla wafers on top of the fruit.
Spread the remaining whipped cream over the second cookie layer.
Top with the remaining strawberries and drizzle with any leftover strawberry syrup.
Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow cookies to soften.
Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Notes

Keep all equipment and cream cold for best whipping results. Use slightly stale vanilla wafers for better texture absorption. Do not freeze this dessert as the cream will separate. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free vanilla wafers. For a dairy-free version, use coconut cream and dairy-free cookies.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dessert
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 square
Calories: 280
Sugar: 22
Sodium: 180
Fat: 16
Saturated Fat: 10
Carbohydrates: 32
Fiber: 1
Protein: 3

Keywords: no-bake dessert, strawberry shortcake, icebox cake, summer dessert, easy dessert, whipped cream, vanilla wafers, make-ahead dessert