Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is the perfect dessert for any celebration! With layers of creamy strawberry shortcake ice cream and a delectable homemade strawberry sauce, this no-bake cake is as delightful to eat as it is to look at. It’s a refreshing treat suitable for birthdays, summer parties, or simply indulging your sweet tooth. The combination of flavors and textures makes this cake a standout dessert that will impress everyone at your gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This ice cream cake requires no baking, making it a quick and hassle-free dessert option.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of strawberry and vanilla flavors creates a delightful taste that appeals to both kids and adults.
• Customizable Layers: You can easily modify the layers with your favorite cookies or ice creams for a personal touch.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday or family get-together, this cake is sure to be a hit!
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious dessert, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• 9-inch springform pan
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Necessary for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Saucepan: Used to cook the strawberry sauce evenly, ensuring perfect consistency.
• Springform pan: Allows for easy removal of the cake without damaging its shape.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Sauce

• 4 cups frozen strawberries (about 520g)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200g)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons corn starch

For the Cake Layers

• 2 litres Chapman’s Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
• 3 cups crushed vanilla cookies
• 1/2 cup melted butter

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Sauce

1. In a saucepan, combine frozen strawberries, sugar, and water.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. In a small bowl, mix corn starch with a little water until smooth. Add this mixture to the saucepan.
4. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Base

1. In a mixing bowl, combine crushed vanilla cookies with melted butter. Mix until well combined.
2. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan to form an even layer.

Step 3: Layer the Ice Cream

1. Take the strawberry shortcake ice cream out of the freezer and let it soften slightly.
2. Spread half of the softened ice cream over the cookie base evenly.

Step 4: Add Strawberry Sauce

1. Pour half of your cooled strawberry sauce over the ice cream layer.
2. Repeat by adding another layer of ice cream followed by more strawberry sauce on top.

Step 5: Freeze and Serve

1. Cover the springform pan with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or until solid.
2. To serve, release the springform pan carefully, slice into pieces, and enjoy your delicious strawberry shortcake ice cream cake!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Serving Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a delightful experience that can be made even more enjoyable with some creative touches. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dessert presentation.

Garnish with Fresh Strawberries

• Top each slice with fresh strawberries for a burst of color and flavor.

Add Whipped Cream

• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for extra creaminess.

Drizzle with Strawberry Sauce

• Enhance the flavor by drizzling homemade strawberry sauce over each slice.

Incorporate Mint Leaves

• Use fresh mint leaves as a garnish for a refreshing touch.

Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

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

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Select fresh strawberries and premium ice cream for the best flavor.

• Chill Your Ingredients: Keep your heavy cream and ice cream chilled to maintain the right texture during preparation.

• Crush Cookies Finely: Ensure your vanilla cookies are crushed finely to create a smooth base for the cake.

• Let It Set Properly: Allow the cake to freeze adequately for several hours or overnight for the best results.

• Slice With Warm Knife: Dip your knife in warm water before slicing to achieve clean cuts through the ice cream cake.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

When serving Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake, pairing it with side dishes can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and complements the sweetness of the cake.

2. Chocolate Mousse: This rich dessert pairs well, offering a nice contrast to the light flavors of the cake.

3. Lemon Sorbet: A refreshing lemon sorbet provides a zesty balance against the creamy cake.

4. Pecan Pie Bars: These bars offer a nutty crunch that contrasts beautifully with soft ice cream layers.

5. Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake bites bring a tangy element that enhances dessert variety on your plate.

6. Granola Parfaits: Layered granola, yogurt, and berries make for an excellent crunchy side option.

7. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add tropical flair that pairs nicely with strawberry flavors.

8. Caramel Sauce Drizzle: A small bowl of caramel sauce can be offered for guests who enjoy an extra layer of sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake can be easier if you avoid these common mistakes.

• Skipping the chilling step: Not allowing your cake to chill properly can cause it to fall apart when served. Always refrigerate for at least a few hours before cutting.
• Using fresh strawberries instead of frozen: Fresh strawberries may not blend well into the sauce and can alter the texture. Stick to frozen strawberries for the best results.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can lead to an unbalanced cake. Use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
• Overmixing the cookie crust: Mixing too much can make the crust tough. Combine just until everything is moistened.
• Neglecting to let ice cream soften slightly: If your ice cream is too hard, it won’t spread evenly. Let it sit out for about 10 minutes before using.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until just soft.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid, and warm gently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake.

Can I use different types of ice cream?

Yes! You can substitute any flavor of ice cream that you enjoy for a unique twist on the Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake.

How do I make homemade strawberry sauce?

To make homemade strawberry sauce, simmer frozen strawberries with sugar and a bit of water until thickened, then blend until smooth.

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

The total time is approximately 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time, but chilling is essential for best results.

Can I customize this dessert?

Absolutely! You can add other fruits like blueberries or raspberries or mix in some nuts or chocolate chips for added texture.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a delightful treat that combines creamy, fruity flavors with a crunchy cookie crust. It’s perfect for any occasion and easy to customize based on your preferences. Give it a try and impress your friends and family!