Memorial Day No-Bake Icebox Cake (Print Version)

Layers of whipped cream, graham crackers and sliced strawberries chilled until set for a festive summer treat.

# What You'll Need:

→ Dairy & Cream

01 - 2 cups cold heavy whipping cream
02 - 1/4 cup powdered 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 blueberries
07 - Fresh mint leaves

# Directions:

01 - Combine cold heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar and vanilla in a large mixing bowl. Using an electric hand mixer or stand mixer, beat on medium-high until firm peaks form; be careful not to overbeat.
02 - Spread a thin, even layer of whipped cream over the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish using a spatula to create a glue layer for the crackers.
03 - Place a single layer of graham crackers over the whipped cream, breaking pieces as needed to cover the surface completely and form a flat base.
04 - Spread one-third of the remaining whipped cream over the graham crackers, then scatter one-third of the sliced strawberries in an even layer.
05 - Repeat the sequence twice more: graham crackers, one-third whipped cream, and one-third strawberries, finishing with a final layer of whipped cream and the remaining strawberries arranged decoratively on top.
06 - For a festive presentation, scatter blueberries over the top and tuck fresh mint leaves among the strawberries as desired.
07 - Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the layers to soften and meld for clean slicing.
08 - Remove from refrigerator, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe dry between cuts for neat slices. Serve chilled.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • This is your secret weapon for those times when your kitchen is already stifling and you crave a stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert—no oven required.
  • It honestly tastes even better after a night in the fridge, so you can prep ahead and still impress with perfect, clean layers.
02 -
  • Rushing the chill time means the layers won’t meld and you’ll end up with a crumbly, sliding mess (I learned the hard way at a family dinner...)
  • Switching to chocolate graham crackers once turned the whole dish into a s’mores-inspired hit—feel free to swap, it’s worth it.
03 -
  • If you spot a little watery syrup at the bottom after chilling, just blot gently with a paper towel before slicing.
  • A metal bowl and whisk make the whipped cream come together much faster—keep both in the fridge for at least 10 minutes before starting.
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