Can I use regular Oreos instead of golden Oreos?

Absolutely! Regular chocolate Oreos will create a classic cookies and cream base that pairs wonderfully with strawberry. The flavor profile will shift toward a chocolate-strawberry combination rather than the shortcake flavor, but it's equally delicious.

What if I can't find freeze-dried strawberries?

While freeze-dried strawberries provide intense flavor and color without adding moisture, you can substitute with strawberry wafer cookies crushed finely or even strawberry Pocky sticks broken into pieces. You could also use fresh strawberries that have been thinly sliced and patted very dry, but add these just before serving.

Can I make this with non-dairy ice cream?

Yes! This recipe works wonderfully with non-dairy alternatives. Just make sure to choose quality brands that have a creamy texture when frozen, as some non-dairy options can become icier than traditional ice cream.

How do I prevent my cake from getting too hard in the freezer?

Commercial ice cream is formulated to maintain a scoopable consistency in home freezers. If you find your cake is too firm, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. For the best texture, store your cake in the main section of the freezer, not the door where temperature fluctuations occur.

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake Recipe

This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake is a dreamy, creamy dessert that combines the nostalgic flavors of strawberry shortcake with the refreshing delight of ice cream. Layers of vanilla and strawberry ice cream sit atop a buttery golden Oreo crust, all crowned with a delightful crunch of freeze-dried strawberries and cookie bits. It’s an impressive treat that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Baking Required: This is completely no-bake! Just assemble and freeze – perfect for hot summer days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare this cake a day or two before you need it, making it ideal for entertaining or special occasions.
Crowd-Pleaser: The combination of vanilla, strawberry, and golden Oreos is universally loved by kids and adults alike.
Customizable: The basic technique works with endless flavor combinations, so you can make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Golden Oreos: These create both the buttery crust and add a surprise crunch on top. Their vanilla flavor complements the strawberry beautifully without overwhelming it like chocolate cookies might.
Butter: Binds the crust together and adds richness. Make sure it’s fully melted for easy mixing with the cookie crumbs.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Forms the base and top layers, creating that classic “shortcake” flavor component. Choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
Strawberry Ice Cream: Provides the signature strawberry flavor and pretty pink color. Look for one with real strawberry pieces for extra texture.
Freeze-Dried Strawberries: These little flavor bombs add intense strawberry taste and beautiful color without adding moisture that would make the topping soggy. They’re worth seeking out!

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Different Cookie Base

Try graham crackers or vanilla wafers for the crust instead of golden Oreos. Each brings its own unique flavor to complement the ice cream layers.

Ice Cream Flavors

Swap strawberry for raspberry, blackberry, or mixed berry ice cream. You could even use strawberry cheesecake ice cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Add Fresh Fruit

Include a layer of macerated fresh strawberries between ice cream layers for more texture and fresh flavor.

Chocolate Lover’s Version

Use chocolate Oreos for the crust and mix in some chocolate ice cream for a chocolate-covered strawberry vibe.

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Crush golden Oreos until they resemble coarse sand, then mix with melted butter until you achieve a wet sand consistency. Press this mixture firmly into the bottom of a parchment-lined springform pan, creating an even layer.

Step 2: Add First Vanilla Layer

Slightly soften 3 cups of vanilla ice cream and spread it in an even layer over the crust. Work quickly to prevent excessive melting, and use an offset spatula for the smoothest results.

Step 3: Prepare Strawberry Layer

Beat the strawberry ice cream with a paddle attachment for about 2 minutes until smooth and spreadable. This creates the perfect consistency for layering without having it melt too much.

Step 4: Add Final Vanilla Layer

Spread the remaining cup of vanilla ice cream over the strawberry layer, creating your third ice cream tier.

Step 5: Add Crunchy Topping

Mix the crushed freeze-dried strawberries with crushed golden Oreos and sprinkle evenly over the top vanilla layer. This creates a beautiful garnish and adds wonderful textural contrast.

Step 6: Freeze

Place the entire cake in the freezer for at least 2 hours, or until completely firm. This allows all the layers to set properly and flavors to meld.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Temperature Matters: Let ice cream soften just enough to be spreadable but not melty. Too soft and your layers will blend together.
Work Quickly: Have all ingredients measured and ready before you start assembling. This helps prevent the ice cream from melting too much during assembly.
Clean Cuts: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it clean between slices for picture-perfect servings.
Level Layers: Use the back of a spoon or an offset spatula to create smooth, even layers.
Chill Your Pan: Place your springform pan in the freezer for 10 minutes before starting to help the layers set faster as you build them.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh strawberries on the side or a light drizzle of strawberry sauce. For a more decadent presentation, add a dollop of whipped cream.

Special Occasions

This dessert is perfect for summer birthdays, baby showers with pink themes, Valentine’s Day, or any celebration where a show-stopping dessert is appreciated.

Serving Tips

Let the cake sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before slicing – it makes cutting easier while still maintaining the structure of the cake.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover any uneaten portion tightly with plastic wrap and return to the freezer. The cake will keep well for up to 2 weeks.

Freezing

This cake is designed for freezing and can be made up to a week in advance of your event. Just keep it well-covered to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating

No reheating needed! Simply remove from the freezer and let stand at room temperature for about 5 minutes before serving for the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use regular Oreos instead of golden Oreos?

Absolutely! Regular chocolate Oreos will create a classic cookies and cream base that pairs wonderfully with strawberry. The flavor profile will shift toward a chocolate-strawberry combination rather than the shortcake flavor, but it’s equally delicious.
What if I can’t find freeze-dried strawberries?

While freeze-dried strawberries provide intense flavor and color without adding moisture, you can substitute with strawberry wafer cookies crushed finely or even strawberry Pocky sticks broken into pieces. You could also use fresh strawberries that have been thinly sliced and patted very dry, but add these just before serving.
Can I make this with non-dairy ice cream?

Yes! This recipe works wonderfully with non-dairy alternatives. Just make sure to choose quality brands that have a creamy texture when frozen, as some non-dairy options can become icier than traditional ice cream.
How do I prevent my cake from getting too hard in the freezer?

Commercial ice cream is formulated to maintain a scoopable consistency in home freezers. If you find your cake is too firm, simply allow it to sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. For the best texture, store your cake in the main section of the freezer, not the door where temperature fluctuations occur.

Final Thoughts

This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Cake transforms ordinary ice cream into an extraordinary dessert with minimal effort. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for warm days, celebrations, or anytime you want to bring smiles to the table. The combination of creamy and crunchy textures alongside the classic vanilla-strawberry flavor pairing makes this a dessert everyone will request again and again!