Easy No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake – 3-Ingredient Dessert
A ridiculously simple 3-ingredient no-bake dessert that layers graham crackers, frozen strawberries in syrup, and Cool Whip to create a cake-like treat. Perfect for last-minute gatherings, this icebox cake requires only 15 minutes of prep and lets the fridge do the rest.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling)
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 standard box (about 14–16 full sheets) graham crackers (honey or cinnamon)
- 2 (10-ounce) packages frozen strawberries in syrup, thawed
- 1 (8-ounce) container frozen whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed (regular, not light)
- Optional: fresh strawberries for topping, mint leaves for garnish, powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
- Thaw the frozen strawberries and Cool Whip about 30 minutes before starting. Strawberries should be mostly thawed but still cold; Cool Whip should be soft enough to spread but not liquid.
- Pour the thawed strawberries and all their syrup into a medium bowl. Use a potato masher or fork to break them into smaller pieces, leaving some chunks for texture.
- Spread about 2 tablespoons of the strawberry mixture on the bottom of an 8×8-inch baking dish to help the first layer of graham crackers stick.
- Arrange a single layer of graham crackers on the bottom of the dish, breaking some to fit as needed. Use about 4 full sheets per layer, filling gaps with broken pieces.
- Spoon about one-third of the strawberry mixture over the graham crackers, spreading evenly so every cracker gets some syrup.
- Dollop about one-third of the Cool Whip over the strawberries and spread gently to the edges with a spatula.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the cream, pressing down very gently. Repeat with another third of strawberries and another third of cream.
- For the final layer, add graham crackers, then the remaining strawberries, then the remaining Cool Whip. Spread the top cream layer smoothly, covering all graham crackers completely.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, but overnight is best (up to 24 hours).
- Before serving, garnish with fresh strawberry slices, mint leaves, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Cut into squares and serve cold.
Notes
Don’t rush the chilling time—6 hours minimum, overnight is ideal. Use full-fat Cool Whip for best texture. Frozen strawberries in syrup are non-negotiable for the right consistency. If using fresh strawberries, mash with 2-3 tablespoons sugar and let sit 30 minutes. For dairy-free, use a vegan whipped topping. Can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square (1/9 of rec
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 27.5
- Sodium: 200
- Fat: 13.5
- Saturated Fat: 10
- Carbohydrates: 42.5
- Fiber: 1.5
- Protein: 2.5
Keywords: no-bake dessert, icebox cake, strawberry shortcake, 3-ingredient dessert, easy dessert, summer dessert, potluck dessert, last-minute dessert