Memorial Day Icebox Cake (Print View)

Layered icebox cake of whipped cream, graham crackers and sliced strawberries—chill until firm for neat, summery slices.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy & Cream

01 - 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
02 - 1/4 cup powdered (confectioners') sugar
03 - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

→ Cookies & Base

04 - 1 (14-ounce) box graham crackers

→ Fruit

05 - 1 1/2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

→ Optional Garnish

06 - 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
07 - Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

# How To Make It:

01 - Place the mixing bowl and beaters in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to ensure the cream whips quickly and holds structure.
02 - Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer on medium-high speed, beat the cold heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form; avoid overbeating to prevent graininess.
03 - Spread a thin, even layer of the whipped cream across the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish to anchor the first layer of crackers.
04 - Arrange a single layer of graham crackers over the whipped cream, breaking pieces as needed to cover the surface without large gaps.
05 - Spread one-third of the remaining whipped cream over the cracker layer, then distribute one-third of the sliced strawberries in an even layer.
06 - Repeat the sequence—graham crackers, one-third whipped cream, one-third strawberries—ending with a final layer of whipped cream and arranged strawberries on top for a clean presentation.
07 - For a festive finish, scatter the blueberries over the top and tuck mint leaves where desired; press gently so the toppings sit flush with the cream.
08 - Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the crackers to soften and the layers to set. When ready, slice with a sharp knife and serve chilled.

# Expert Insights:

01 -
  • This is the kind of dessert that looks impressive but comes together with almost zero effort.
  • When the weather's warm, skipping the oven feels like a little life hack you'll want to use every summer.
02 -
  • I once hurried the chilling time, and the cake slid apart on the plate—never again!
  • Letting the cake sit overnight makes the graham crackers go from crunchy to delightfully cake-like, transforming the texture completely.
03 -
  • Always start with cold cream and a chilled bowl—it whips faster and holds its peaks best.
  • A dusting of powdered sugar on the final layer hides any imperfections and looks photo-ready.
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