No bake berry icebox cake is the taste of summer memories made simple! I remember my grandma always whipping up a berry icebox cake on hot summer days. It was the perfect treat: cool, refreshing, and bursting with juicy berries. This no bake berry icebox cake version is even easier than Grandma’s, and just as delicious. It’s the perfect quick dessert for potlucks, picnics, or just a sweet escape on a warm evening.
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Why You Will Love This no bake berry icebox cake Recipe
This recipe is perfect for those hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven. It’s a symphony of creamy, fruity, and subtly crunchy textures. The layers of graham crackers soften perfectly in the whipped cream, creating a cake like consistency that’s both comforting and refreshing. Plus, it’s incredibly adaptable – use your favorite berries, add chocolate shavings, or even a touch of citrus zest for an extra pop!
It’s also a fantastic recipe to make with kids. They’ll love layering the ingredients and arranging the berries. This no bake berry icebox cake recipe brings people together! This recipe is fast and uses simple ingredients that elevate the taste of summer berry dessert season.
Ingredients Needed for This no bake berry icebox cake Recipe
- For the Berry Mixture:
* 4 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the Cream Filling:
* 2 cups heavy whipping cream
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- For the Layers:
* 1 (14.4 ounce) package graham crackers
How to Make This no bake berry icebox cake Recipe
- 1. Prepare the Berry Mixture: In a medium bowl, gently combine the mixed berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Stir lightly to coat the berries. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes, allowing the berries to macerate and release their juices along with providing a wonderful summer berry dessert taste.
- 2. Make the Whipped Cream: In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat the heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
- 3. Assemble the Icebox Cake: In an 8×8 inch square dish or a similar size loaf pan, spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom.
- 4. Layer Graham Crackers: Arrange a layer of graham crackers over the whipped cream, breaking them as needed to fit snugly in the dish.
- 5. Add Berry Layer: Spoon half of the berry mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
- 6. Add Cream Layer: Spread half of the remaining whipped cream over the berry layer.
- 7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layers: graham crackers, berry mixture, and whipped cream.
- 8. Final Layer and Chill: For the final layer, spread the remaining whipped cream evenly over the top.
- 9. Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
How to Serve This no bake berry icebox cake Recipe
This no bake berry icebox cake is best served chilled. Cut into squares and serve immediately. Consider adding a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a few extra fresh berries on top for a beautiful presentation. A sprinkle of mini chocolate chips also adds a touch of decadence. Pair it with a refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea for the ultimate summer treat. For a more elegant touch, try serving it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream!
How to Store This no bake berry icebox cake Recipe
Store any leftover no bake berry icebox cake covered in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. After that, the graham crackers may become too soft, and the berries might release too much liquid. This icebox cake is not ideal for freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream and berries will change upon thawing. For best results, enjoy it within a few days of making it.
Tips to Make This no bake berry icebox cake Recipe
For a richer flavor, use full fat heavy whipping cream. You can also substitute the graham crackers with chocolate graham crackers for a chocolate berry version. If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the whipped cream. For a tangier flavor, add a pinch of lemon zest to the whipped cream. Avoid over soaking the graham crackers by ensuring the berry mixture isn’t too watery before layering. If you are using frozen berries, make sure they are fully thawed and drained to remove excess liquid. For another delicious dessert idea, check out this Fresh Berry Cream Cake.
Helpful Notes for This no bake berry icebox cake Recipe
The type of berries you use can be easily customized based on your preference and what’s in season. Feel free to experiment with different combinations! This recipe works equally well with store bought whipped cream, however, homemade whipped cream will provide a fresher, more flavorful result. The chilling time is crucial for the graham crackers to soften, so don’t skip this step! The icebox cake is best served when the graham crackers have a soft cake like consistency.
Variation of This no bake berry icebox cake Recipe
A fun variation is to add a layer of lemon curd between the graham crackers and the berries for a tangy twist. For a chocolate version, melt some dark chocolate and drizzle it over the graham cracker layers. You can also add a layer of sliced bananas or peaches for a different flavor profile. Get creative with your toppings! Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or even crumbled cookies on top. If you love raspberry desserts, you might also love Vanilla Raspberry Layer Cake or White Chocolate Raspberry Cake!
How long does no bake berry icebox cake need to chill?
For the best results, a no bake berry icebox cake should chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cookies to soften.
Can I use different types of berries in my icebox cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your no bake berry icebox cake with your favorite berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. A mix of berries adds a beautiful look and varied flavor.
What kind of cookies are best for no bake berry icebox cake?
Graham crackers are the most traditional and widely used cookie for no bake berry icebox cake, but you can also use other cookies like chocolate wafers or vanilla wafers. The key is to use a relatively plain cookie that will absorb moisture well.
Can I freeze no bake berry icebox cake?
Yes, no bake berry icebox cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Conclusion
This no bake berry icebox cake proves that simple desserts can still be incredibly special. With juicy berries, creamy layers, and zero oven time, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to all summer long. Be sure to visit and follow us on Pinterest for more no-bake desserts, summer treats, and easy crowd-pleasing recipes!
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No Bake Berry Icebox Cake: Easiest Summer Dessert!
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings 1x
Description
Cool, creamy, and bursting with berries, this no bake berry icebox cake is the perfect easy summer dessert. Layers of graham crackers, whipped cream, and fresh berries come together for a refreshing treat that requires no baking!
Ingredients
- 4 cups mixed fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (14.4 ounce) package graham crackers
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, gently combine the mixed berries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Let sit for 15 minutes.
- In a large bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beat until stiff peaks form.
- Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom of an 8×8 inch dish.
- Arrange a layer of graham crackers over the whipped cream.
- Spoon half of the berry mixture evenly over the graham crackers.
- Spread half of the remaining whipped cream over the berry layer.
- Repeat the layers: graham crackers, berry mixture, and whipped cream.
- For the final layer, spread the remaining whipped cream evenly over the top.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
- Cut into squares and serve chilled!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: icebox cake, berry dessert, summer dessert, no bake dessert