Description
A simple, no-bake dessert made with layers of graham crackers, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. Perfect for hot summer days, this cake comes together in just 15 minutes of active work and chills overnight for a tender, cake-like texture.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 sleeves graham crackers (about 20–24 crackers)
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided
- 2 cups heavy cream, cold
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice for strawberries
Instructions
- Wash and hull the strawberries. Slice them about 1/4 inch thick. Toss with 1/4 cup of the sugar in a bowl and let sit for 15-20 minutes to macerate.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold heavy cream, remaining 1/4 cup sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Whip on medium speed until soft peaks form (the cream should hold its shape but still look soft and billowy).
- Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom of an 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Arrange a single layer of graham crackers on top of the cream, breaking them as needed to fit snugly.
- Spoon about one-third of the macerated strawberries (including juices) over the graham crackers. Spread evenly.
- Dollop about one-third of the whipped cream over the strawberries and spread gently to cover.
- Repeat layers: graham crackers, strawberries, cream, two more times, ending with a layer of cream on top. Spread smooth.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
- Before serving, top with fresh sliced strawberries. Slice with a sharp knife, wiping clean between cuts.
Notes
For best results, chill overnight. The graham crackers soften into a cake-like texture. Keep everything cold for easier whipping. Don’t skip macerating the strawberries—it creates the syrup that softens the crackers. For clean slices, run knife under hot water between cuts. Can be frozen for up to 1 month (without fresh strawberry topping).
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/9 of cake
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 22
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 3
Keywords: no-bake dessert, strawberry icebox cake, summer dessert, easy dessert, graham cracker cake, no oven dessert