Overview
- 🕒 Prep Time: 20 minutes
- ❄️ Freeze Time: 4 hours
- ⏲ Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- 💲 Cost per Serving: $1.50
- 🔥 Calorie Count per Serving: 250 calories
Table of Contents
Introduction
Strawberry shortcake ice cream is the ultimate summer treat, blending creamy ice cream with the sweet, fruity flavor of strawberries and the crumbly goodness of shortcake pieces. This dessert is refreshing, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make at home.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to create a no-churn version that doesn’t require an ice cream maker. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a deliciously creamy ice cream that’s perfect for family gatherings, parties, or a cozy night in. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Strawberry shortcake ice cream isn’t just a dessert—it’s a sweet experience that combines creamy, fruity, and crunchy textures in every bite. Here’s why this recipe is going to become your new favorite:
1. No Ice Cream Maker Required
You don’t need any fancy equipment to make this creamy, indulgent ice cream. With a simple no-churn method, anyone can create a rich and velvety treat at home.
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of strawberries, the buttery crunch of shortcake crumbles, and the smooth, creamy texture of homemade ice cream. Every element complements the others for a harmonious and satisfying flavor.
3. Incredibly Creamy Texture
The whipped cream and sweetened condensed milk create a luscious, velvety base that feels like a gourmet ice cream. It’s rich without being too heavy, making it perfect for warm summer days.
4. Customizable to Your Taste
You can tweak this recipe to suit your preferences. Adjust the sweetness of the strawberry swirl, add extra shortcake crumbles for more crunch, or even include mix-ins like white chocolate chips or crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a personalized twist.
5. Great for Special Occasions
Whether it’s a summer barbecue, a birthday party, or just a family treat, this ice cream is a show-stopper. The layers of strawberry swirl and shortcake crumbles not only taste amazing but also look stunning when served.
6. A Nostalgic Favorite
If you’ve ever enjoyed a strawberry shortcake ice cream bar as a kid, this recipe brings that nostalgic flavor to life in a homemade, elevated way. It’s a trip down memory lane with a homemade twist.
7. Easy to Make Ahead
This ice cream stores beautifully in the freezer, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert. Prepare it a day or two in advance, and it’s ready to serve whenever the craving strikes.
8. Uses Simple Ingredients
You only need a handful of pantry and fridge staples to whip up this recipe. Fresh strawberries, cookies, and cream come together to create a dessert that tastes far more luxurious than its humble ingredients suggest.
9. Perfect for Sharing
This recipe makes enough to share with friends and family, and its layered presentation makes it an impressive dessert to bring to gatherings. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
This strawberry shortcake ice cream is the ultimate combination of ease, flavor, and wow factor. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to scoop up happiness! 😊
Ingredients
For the ice cream base:
- 2 cups heavy cream (cold)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the strawberry swirl:
- 1 1/2 cups fresh or frozen strawberries (hulled)
- 2–3 tablespoons granulated sugar (or sweetener of choice)
For the shortcake crumbles:
- 1 cup vanilla shortcake cookies (crumbled)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Strawberry Swirl
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries and sugar. Cook until the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool completely. Blend it for a smooth texture or leave it slightly chunky for a more rustic feel.
2. Make the Shortcake Crumbles
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, mix the crumbled shortcake cookies with melted butter until coated. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet and bake for 5–7 minutes or until golden and crisp. Let cool.
3. Whip the Ice Cream Base
- In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract, being careful not to deflate the whipped cream.
4. Assemble the Ice Cream
- In a freezer-safe container, layer the ice cream base, strawberry swirl, and shortcake crumbles. Repeat the layers, swirling gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Top with extra shortcake crumbles for added texture.
5. Freeze and Enjoy
- Cover the container with plastic wrap or a lid and freeze for at least 4 hours, or until firm.
- Scoop and serve in bowls or cones. Enjoy your homemade strawberry shortcake ice cream!
Tips for the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Making strawberry shortcake ice cream is easy, but these tips will ensure it turns out absolutely perfect every time:
1. Use Cold Ingredients
For the creamiest texture, make sure your heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk are cold before starting. This helps the whipped cream hold its structure and ensures a velvety smooth ice cream base.
2. Don’t Overmix
When folding the sweetened condensed milk into the whipped cream, mix gently to keep the base light and airy. Overmixing can deflate the whipped cream and make the ice cream less creamy.
3. Balance the Sweetness
Taste the strawberry swirl before assembling the layers to make sure it’s sweet enough. If your strawberries are a little tart, you can add an extra tablespoon of sugar or sweetener.
4. Cool the Layers
Let the strawberry swirl and shortcake crumbles cool completely before layering them into the ice cream. This prevents melting the whipped cream base and keeps the layers distinct.
5. Crunchier Crumbles
For the best texture, ensure the shortcake crumbles are fully cooled before mixing them into the ice cream. This keeps them crisp and prevents them from becoming soggy.
6. Layer Thoughtfully
When assembling the ice cream, layer the ingredients evenly and swirl gently with a knife to create a beautiful marbled effect. Don’t overmix the layers, as this can muddle the flavors.
7. Freeze Properly
Cover your ice cream container tightly with plastic wrap or a lid to prevent ice crystals from forming on the surface. Allow at least 4 hours of freezing time for the best consistency.
8. Use High-Quality Ingredients
Choose fresh, ripe strawberries and good-quality cookies for the crumbles. The better the ingredients, the more flavorful and satisfying your ice cream will be.
9. Serve with Style
For a picture-perfect presentation, garnish your ice cream with extra shortcake crumbles and fresh strawberry slices. A drizzle of strawberry purée can add a fancy touch.
10. Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to get creative! Add a dash of cinnamon to the shortcake crumbles, mix in white chocolate chips, or layer in crushed freeze-dried strawberries for a fun twist on the classic flavor.
These tips will help you create strawberry shortcake ice cream that’s creamy, flavorful, and impressive enough to share—or keep all to yourself! 😊
How to Customize This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Strawberry shortcake ice cream is already delicious, but customizing it to suit your preferences or dietary needs can make it even more special. Here are some creative ways to tweak the recipe and make it your own:
1. Make It Low-Carb
For a keto-friendly version, replace the sweetened condensed milk with sugar-free condensed milk and use low-carb cookies or almond flour crumble for the shortcake layer.
2. Try a Mixed Berry Swirl
Switch up the strawberry swirl by adding other berries like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries. You can even create a mixed berry layer for a colorful and tangy twist.
3. Add a Chocolate Touch
Incorporate white chocolate chips or drizzle melted chocolate between the layers for an extra indulgent dessert. Dark chocolate or milk chocolate also pair beautifully with strawberries.
4. Make It Vegan
Replace heavy cream with coconut cream and use sweetened condensed coconut milk. Swap the shortcake cookies for vegan-friendly options to create a completely dairy-free version.
5. Infuse with Flavors
Add a splash of almond extract or a pinch of cinnamon to the whipped cream base for added depth of flavor. You can also sprinkle some lemon zest into the strawberry swirl for a citrusy kick.
6. Boost the Crunch
Mix crushed nuts like almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts with the shortcake crumbles for an added layer of crunch and nutty flavor.
7. Play with Presentation
Instead of layering the ice cream in a container, pour the mixture into popsicle molds to create strawberry shortcake ice cream bars. You can coat them in shortcake crumbles for a nostalgic treat.
8. Add a Boozy Twist
Stir in a splash of Grand Marnier, Amaretto, or a strawberry liqueur to the strawberry swirl for a grown-up version of this classic dessert.
9. Incorporate Fresh Herbs
Add finely chopped fresh mint or basil to the strawberry swirl for a refreshing herbal twist. This is a great way to elevate the flavor and impress guests with something unique.
10. Use Sponge Cake Instead of Cookies
For a more traditional shortcake vibe, replace the cookie crumbles with small chunks of sponge cake or pound cake. These will soak up the ice cream and add a soft, buttery texture.
11. Make It Extra Fruity
Fold small chunks of fresh strawberries into the ice cream base for added bursts of fruity goodness in every bite.
12. Create a Layered Cake
Freeze the ice cream in a springform pan with layers of cookies, strawberry swirl, and whipped cream to create a strawberry shortcake ice cream cake.
Bonus Idea!
Freeze individual portions in small mason jars for a cute, portable dessert that’s perfect for picnics or party favors.
These customizations let you turn strawberry shortcake ice cream into a dessert that’s truly your own. Whether you’re sticking to the classic recipe or experimenting with new flavors, the result will be delicious! 🍓🍦
What to Serve with Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Strawberry shortcake ice cream is a showstopper on its own, but pairing it with the right treats and beverages can elevate your dessert game. Here are some delicious ideas to make your ice cream even more special:
1. Fresh Strawberry Purée
Drizzle some homemade Strawberry Purée over the ice cream for an extra fruity touch. Its vibrant color and tangy sweetness perfectly complement the creamy base.
2. Warm Pound Cake or Shortcake
Serve a scoop of strawberry shortcake ice cream alongside a warm slice of pound cake or a classic shortcake biscuit. The soft texture and buttery flavor are a perfect match for the ice cream’s creamy and crunchy layers.
3. Whipped Cream and Fresh Berries
Top your ice cream with a dollop of whipped cream and a handful of fresh strawberries for a classic strawberry shortcake presentation. You can also mix in other berries like raspberries or blueberries for extra flavor.
4. Homemade Waffles or Crepes
Pair the ice cream with warm waffles or thin, delicate crepes. The combination of crispy or soft textures with the creamy ice cream creates a delightful dessert experience.
5. Strawberry Shortcake Sundae
Build a sundae by layering the ice cream in a tall glass with more shortcake crumbles, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream. Add a cherry on top for a fun and indulgent treat.
6. Cookies for Dipping
Serve crunchy cookies like sugar cookies, biscotti, or vanilla wafers on the side. These are perfect for scooping up bites of ice cream and adding more texture to your dessert.
7. Hot Fudge Sauce
Drizzle warm hot fudge sauce over the ice cream for a decadent chocolate-strawberry combination. The richness of the fudge beautifully balances the fruity flavors.
8. Iced Coffee or Latte
Pair your ice cream with a refreshing iced coffee or latte. The slight bitterness of the coffee complements the sweet and creamy ice cream, making it a sophisticated dessert option.
9. Strawberry Lemonade or Mocktails
Serve the ice cream alongside a cool glass of strawberry lemonade or a fruity mocktail. The refreshing drink enhances the summery vibe of the dessert.
10. Cheesecake Slices
Pair the ice cream with a slice of creamy cheesecake for a luxurious dessert combo. The tanginess of the cheesecake pairs wonderfully with the sweet, fruity ice cream.
11. Chocolate Dipped Strawberries
For an elegant pairing, serve your ice cream with chocolate-dipped strawberries on the side. The combination of creamy, fruity, and chocolatey flavors is irresistible.
12. Savory Pairing: Pretzels
For those who love a sweet and salty combo, serve crunchy pretzels alongside the ice cream. The saltiness adds a surprising yet delightful contrast to the dessert.
Bonus Idea!
Turn your ice cream into a milkshake by blending it with a splash of milk and topping it with whipped cream and a shortcake crumble garnish.
These pairings take your strawberry shortcake ice cream to new heights, making it the centerpiece of any dessert spread. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening treat, these combinations are sure to impress! 🍓🍦
FAQ: All About Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Q: Can I use store-bought shortcake cookies?
A: Yes, store-bought shortcake or vanilla cookies work perfectly for the crumble. You can also use graham crackers or sponge cake if preferred.
Q: How long does this ice cream last in the freezer?
A: Homemade ice cream can last up to 2 weeks in the freezer. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Q: Can I make this Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use sweetened condensed coconut milk. Choose dairy-free cookies for the crumble.
Q: What if I don’t have condensed milk?
A: You can make a simple substitute by simmering 1 cup of milk with 1/2 cup of sugar until it thickens, then cooling it before use.
Q: Can I add other mix-ins?
A: Yes! Try adding white chocolate chips, crushed freeze-dried strawberries, or even small chunks of pound cake for extra texture and flavor.
Recommended Products
Please note that the links below are affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, I’ll earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you). Thank you for supporting my blog!
Here are some tools and ingredients to help you make the best strawberry shortcake ice cream:
1. Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
For whipping the heavy cream to perfection, a good hand mixer or stand mixer is a must. It ensures your ice cream base is light, airy, and creamy.
Recommended Product: Electric Hand Mixer on Amazon
2. Freezer-Safe Containers
Use airtight, freezer-safe containers to store your ice cream and prevent ice crystals from forming. Look for ones with a flat design for easy scooping.
Recommended Product: Freezer-Safe Containers with Lids on Amazon
3. Fine Mesh Sieve
If you want your strawberry swirl to have a silky texture, a fine mesh sieve is perfect for straining out seeds.
Recommended Product: Fine Mesh Strainer on Amazon
These recommended products will make your strawberry shortcake ice cream experience even smoother and more enjoyable. Happy making and indulging! 😊🍓🍦
Final Thoughts
Homemade strawberry shortcake ice cream is a delicious way to celebrate the flavors of summer. With its creamy base, fruity swirl, and crunchy shortcake crumbles, this dessert is bound to impress your family and friends. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out in the comments! Don’t forget to share your photos and tag us @BoldBitesHub. Enjoy! 😊