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Judy John

Summer Strawberry Icebox Dessert Recipe

This summer strawberry icebox dessert layers creamy filling, tender cookies, and fresh berries for a cool easy treat. It tastes light, fruity, and wonderfully refreshing.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chill Time 8 hours
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 18 slices
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 275
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cream Filling
  • 16 oz cream cheese room temperature
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2 cups heavy cream cold
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
Layers
  • 24 pieces graham crackers whole sheets
  • 3 cups strawberries hulled and sliced
Topping
  • 1 cup whipped cream optional
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest optional garnish

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • 9x13 Pan
  • Hand Mixer
  • Rubber Spatula
  • Measuring Cups
  • Refrigerator
  • Freezer
  • Knife
  • Whisk
  • Offset Spatula

Method
 

  1. Line a 9x13-inch pan with parchment if desired for easy lifting.
  2. Beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth and fluffy.
  3. Whip heavy cream to stiff peaks in a separate bowl, then fold into the cream cheese mixture with vanilla.
  4. Spread a thin layer of filling in the pan to anchor the first layer.
  5. Arrange graham crackers in a single layer, breaking pieces to fit gaps.
  6. Spread one-third of the filling over crackers, then scatter strawberries evenly.
  7. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with filling on top. Smooth the surface neatly.
  8. Cover and refrigerate at least 8 hours or overnight until crackers soften and slices hold shape.
  9. Top with whipped cream, extra strawberries, and lemon zest if desired. Slice and serve cold.

Notes

For softer cake-like layers, chill overnight. For firmer slices, freeze 20 minutes before cutting. Freeze portions tightly wrapped for up to 1 month; thaw in the refrigerator. Add berries just before top garnish for freshest look. Try blueberries, raspberries, chocolate drizzle, or coconut for flavor twists. Store covered in the refrigerator up to 4 days.