As summer beckons with its warm embrace, there’s something undeniably nostalgic about biting into a Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bar. The rich layers of creamy strawberry goodness and the crunch of buttery cookie crust transport me straight to childhood afternoons spent chasing down the ice cream truck. When I decided to recreate this beloved treat at home, I discovered it’s easier than I ever imagined—no fancy equipment required!
This delightful Strawberry Layered Dessert not only satisfies those sweet cravings but also showcases the vibrant flavor of strawberries, making it perfect for gatherings or a quiet night in. As I layered the tart fruits with luscious cream and crunchy cookie crumbs, I couldn’t help but smile, knowing these bars would be a show-stopping addition to any dessert table. So if you’re tired of fast food and want something genuinely homemade that impresses both guests and your taste buds, join me in this simple yet delightful recipe. Each bite is a mini celebration of summer, waiting to be shared!
Why are Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars irresistible?
Irresistible Delight: Imagine indulging in layers of creamy strawberry goodness, perfect for warm summer days!
Easy to Make: No elaborate kitchen gadgets are needed, just straightforward steps for a delicious treat.
Crowd-Pleasing Treat: This dessert is ideal for parties or a simple family gathering; everyone will adore it!
Versatile Serving: Perfect as a frozen dessert or a refreshing pick-me-up after a long day.
Nostalgic Flavor: Experience flavors that evoke happy childhood memories with every delicious bite.
Quick Prep: Although it requires some freezing time, the prep is minimal—just blend and freeze.
Get ready to create your own Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars; they are sure to become a summer staple!
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Ingredients
For the Crust
• Unsalted butter – 6 tablespoons, melted and cooled; this adds richness to your crust.
• Vanilla sandwich cookies – 1 (about 13-ounce) package, such as Golden Oreos; they provide the perfect crunch.
• Kosher salt – 1/2 teaspoon, divided; enhances the flavor of the crust and ice cream layers.
For the Strawberry Layer
• Frozen strawberries – 1 (10-ounce) bag, whole or sliced; brings vibrant strawberry flavor to the dessert.
• Strawberry jam or preserves – 1/2 cup; adds extra sweetness and that lovely fruity essence.
For the Cream Layer
• Cold heavy cream – 1 cup; this is key for achieving fluffy, whipped cream that complements the strawberries.
• Kosher salt – 1/4 teaspoon (remaining); it balances the sweetness of the cream and strawberries, enhancing the overall flavor.
Indulge in creating these Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars that are sure to become a favorite among your family and friends!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
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Prepare the Strawberries: Let 1 (10-ounce) bag of frozen strawberries sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. This step helps them soften just enough for easier chopping. While waiting, line an 8×8-inch baking pan with 2 sheets of parchment paper, allowing it to hang over the sides—this will make lifting out the bars a breeze!
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Make the Crust: Process 1 (about 13-ounce) package of vanilla sandwich cookies and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt in a food processor until it resembles sand, about 20 seconds. Add the 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter and pulse until combined, about 6 to 8 times.
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Press Crust into Pan: Transfer about half of this mixture (approximately 1 cup) into the prepared baking pan. Press it down firmly to create an even layer, making sure to reach the edges and fill the corners for a sturdy foundation.
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Chop the Strawberries: Process the strawberries in the food processor until they break down into pea-size pieces, which should take about 20 seconds. This will give your strawberry layer a delightful texture—no one likes a mushy dessert!
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Whip the Cream: In a stand mixer, beat 1 cup of cold heavy cream on high speed until stiff peaks form, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, beat in the chopped strawberries, 1/2 cup of strawberry jam, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt on medium speed until everything is well combined, taking about 15 seconds.
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Pour the Strawberry Layer: Carefully pour this delicious strawberry mixture over your crust and spread it out into an even layer. Cover the pan and freeze it until the surface is firm to the touch but not completely frozen, about 3 hours.
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Top with Crust Crumbs: Once the strawberry layer is set, sprinkle the remaining cookie crumbs over it and press them into the strawberry layer for an added crunch.
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Final Freeze: Cover and freeze until firm, which will take at least 6 hours but is best if left overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply lift the bars out using the parchment and cut them into 9 to 12 pieces.
Optional: Drizzle with extra strawberry jam before serving for a beautiful presentation.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Use Fresh Strawberries: If possible, use fresh strawberries for added flavor and texture in your dessert layers.
Don’t Rush the Freezing: Allow enough freezing time for the strawberry layer to set properly, ensuring perfect slices.
Avoid Soggy Crust: Make sure to press the cookie crust firmly into the pan to prevent it from becoming soggy once layered with the strawberry mixture.
Taste Test: Feel free to adjust the amount of strawberry jam based on your sweetness preference; some enjoy it a bit more tart!
Storage Tips: Keep any leftover Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to a week—if they last that long!
What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars?
Indulging in these delightful ice cream bars is just the beginning—supercharge your dessert experience with the perfect pairings to elevate your summer gathering!
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Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or blueberries bring a burst of freshness that complements the creamy layers beautifully. Their natural sweetness enhances every bite.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds an extra layer of indulgence. Its airy texture balances the richness of the strawberry bars, creating a dreamy dessert experience.
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Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves adds a refreshing twist. This aromatic herb brightens the palate and provides a beautiful color contrast to the dessert.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling rich chocolate sauce over the bars creates an irresistible combination of flavors. The decadent chocolate perfectly contrasts the fruity strawberry notes, making it a true treat.
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Iced Tea: A glass of unsweetened iced tea serves as a wonderful counterpoint to the sweetness of the dessert. It’s refreshing and light, perfect for warm days.
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Sparkling Water: A splash of sparkling water with lemon elevates your gathering with a refreshing, bubbly touch. This drink enhances the flavors and keeps you feeling invigorated.
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Lemon Sorbet: For a light and tangy addition, serve a scoop of lemon sorbet alongside the bars. Its citrusy flavor refreshes the palate after the creamy sweetness.
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Almond Biscotti: Crunchy almond biscotti pairs nicely with the soft textures of the bars. Their nutty flavor adds depth and makes for a delightful textural contrast.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: For ultimate indulgence, serve with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. The simplicity of vanilla complements the strawberry layers and enhances the overall dessert experience.
These pairings will not only enhance the appeal of your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars but also create a delightful experience for everyone at your table!
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these delicious bars by incorporating your favorite flavors and dietary preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free cookies for the crust to make this dessert safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and dairy-free butter for a creamy, vegan-friendly option.
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Nutty Crunch: Add crushed nuts, like pistachios or almonds, to the crust for an extra layer of texture and flavor. These will also provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of strawberries!
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Fruity Twist: Swap in raspberries or blueberries for a burst of different fruit flavors. Mix them with the strawberries or create layers for a colorful presentation.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished bars for a rich, indulgent touch that elevates the whole dessert experience.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh mint or basil into the strawberry mixture for a surprising, refreshing herbaceous note. Just chop finely and fold in before freezing!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to the cream layer for an unexpected kick that beautifully balances the sweetness.
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Flavor Extracts: Experiment with vanilla or almond extract in the cream layer for an exciting flavor enhancement that pairs wonderfully with strawberries.
Let your culinary imagination run wild while crafting these delightful treats!
Make Ahead Options
These Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the crust and strawberry layers up to 24 hours in advance. Simply make the crust and layer it in your pan, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. The strawberry mixture can be whipped up a day before assembly and kept in the fridge to maintain its light texture. When you’re ready to finish, just pour the strawberry layer over the crust, freeze until firm (which takes at least 6 hours), and you’ll have a delightful dessert ready to impress your family or guests, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!
Storage Tips for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Fridge: If you plan to enjoy these bars within 3 days, store them in the fridge, covered tightly to prevent melting.
Freezer: For longer storage, keep the Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.
Reheating: To serve, simply remove from the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for about 5-10 minutes for easier slicing.
Wrap for Freshness: For best results, wrap individual bars in plastic wrap before placing them in the container to maintain their texture and flavor.
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best strawberries for my dessert?
Selecting strawberries is all about freshness! Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and free from dark spots or bruises. If you’re using frozen strawberries, make sure they’re from a reliable brand, as they should be frozen at peak ripeness. Always give them a gentle squeeze; they should yield slightly without being mushy.
How should I store these Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars?
For optimal freshness, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week. If planned to eat within 3 days, they can be kept in the fridge, tightly covered, but do note they are best enjoyed frozen!
Can I freeze these bars for longer than a week?
Absolutely! For longer storage, these bars can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just ensure they are wrapped well in plastic wrap before placing them in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
What should I do if my cream doesn’t whip properly?
If your heavy cream isn’t whipping up to stiff peaks, make sure the cream is very cold before beating. Use a chilled mixing bowl and beaters to help achieve the best results. If it remains runny, it’s likely that it didn’t have enough fat content; always opt for heavy cream with at least 36% fat.
Are these bars suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes! To make gluten-free Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars, substitute the vanilla sandwich cookies with gluten-free cookies. There are plenty of delicious alternatives out there, so you don’t have to miss out on this delightful treat.
Can I customize the flavors in this recipe?
Very! You can swap the strawberry jam for other fruit jams or preserves, like raspberry or blueberry, to change the taste. Additionally, mixing in chopped nuts or other berries can add a fun twist to the flavor and texture of your layers!
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars You’ll Crave This Summer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Let 1 bag of frozen strawberries sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften. Line an 8x8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Process vanilla sandwich cookies and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt in a food processor until resembling sand, about 20 seconds. Add melted unsalted butter and pulse until combined.
- Transfer half of the mixture into the prepared baking pan and press down firmly to create an even layer.
- Process the strawberries in the food processor until broken down into pea-size pieces, about 20 seconds.
- In a stand mixer, beat cold heavy cream on high until stiff peaks form, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then, beat in strawberries, strawberry jam, and remaining salt on medium speed.
- Pour the strawberry mixture over the crust and spread it evenly. Cover and freeze until firm, about 3 hours.
- Sprinkle remaining cookie crumbs over the set layer and press them in for added crunch.
- Cover and freeze until firm, ideally overnight. Lift out bars using parchment and cut into pieces.