Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 6 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups vanilla ice cream, softened; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup powdered sugar; 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped; 1/2 cup strawberry sauce; 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Ideas

I love making Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars during the warmer months! The combination of creamy ice cream and crunchy shortcake is simply irresistible, especially when strawberries are in season. With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a delightful treat that satisfies my sweet tooth and keeps me cool. These bars are perfect for picnics or backyard gatherings, and I guarantee they'll become a favorite among friends and family. Try them out, and I'm sure you’ll fall in love with their delightful flavor and texture!

Created by

Olivia Martin

Last updated on 2026-02-27T19:45:35.983Z

When I first experimented with these Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars, I wanted to combine two of my summer favorites: ice cream and shortcake. The key to their creaminess is the whipped cream mixed into the vanilla ice cream, giving a light and airy texture that perfectly complements the fresh strawberries.

I found that layering the strawberry sauce and shortcake pieces into the ice cream allows each bite to burst with flavor. To enhance the shortcake layer, I used crushed vanilla wafers, which added a delightful crunch and subtle sweetness. Trust me, these bars are a dream!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
An irresistible combination of creamy ice cream and crunchy shortcake
Fresh strawberry flavor that shines in every bite
Perfectly portioned for serving at gatherings or enjoying on your own

Understanding the Structure

The foundation of Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars lies in the crust made from crushed vanilla wafers. This key component not only adds a delightful crunch but also provides a contrast to the creamy ice cream. To achieve the perfect texture, ensure that the crushed wafers are mixed well with melted butter so they stick together firmly when pressed into the baking dish. Avoid using overly fine crumbs, as they can make the crust too dense and less enjoyable.

When layering the crust, press it down firmly to create an even base. This prevents the ice cream mixture from seeping through, which can result in a soggy treat. I recommend using the bottom of a measuring cup to ensure a compact layer, which will hold its shape when cut into bars. Letting the crust chill slightly before adding the ice cream can also help stabilize the layers.

Achieving Ice Cream Perfection

Whipping the heavy cream until stiff peaks form is a crucial step in creating a light and fluffy ice cream layer. This aeration enhances the texture, making it creamy and smooth. If you over-whip the cream, it can turn grainy, which will impact the overall mouthfeel of the bars. Aim for a glossy finish before folding in the softened vanilla ice cream—this will ensure a well-integrated mixture without deflating the whipped cream.

When choosing your vanilla ice cream, opt for a high-quality brand with a good vanilla flavor. This investment in a premium ingredient makes a noticeable difference in the taste of your finished bars. You can also consider using a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut milk ice cream, to accommodate dietary preferences.

Customizing Your Bars

Feel free to get creative with the fruit component. While fresh strawberries create a genuine 'shortcake' experience, you can easily swap in other berries like raspberries or blueberries. For a tropical twist, consider using diced mango or peaches. Just ensure that the fruit is ripe and sweet to enhance the overall flavor profile without overpowering the bars.

If you're making the bars ahead of time, they can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. Cut them into individual portions before wrapping in plastic wrap for easy serving. This makes them perfect for spontaneous warm-weather gatherings or a quick dessert option on busy weeknights.

Ingredients

For the Ice Cream Bars

2 cups vanilla ice cream, softened
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped
1/2 cup strawberry sauce
1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before layering them into the pan for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

In a bowl, combine the chopped strawberries and strawberry sauce. Set aside to allow the flavors to blend.

Make the Cream Mixture

In another bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form. Fold in the softened vanilla ice cream until well combined.

Layer the Ingredients

In a 9x9 inch baking dish, combine the crushed vanilla wafers with melted butter and press into the bottom. Pour half of the ice cream mixture over the crust, followed by half of the strawberry mixture. Repeat with the remaining ice cream and strawberries.

Freeze the Bars

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 6 hours or until solid. Once frozen, cut into bars and serve.

Enjoy your homemade Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars on a hot day!

Pro Tips

For a more intense strawberry flavor, consider adding a splash of strawberry extract to the ice cream mixture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars for gatherings, consider drizzling homemade strawberry sauce or chocolate ganache over each bar just before serving. This adds an extra layer of color and flavor that can impress guests. You can also sprinkle some crushed nuts or extra vanilla wafer crumbs on top for a delightful crunch that complements the creaminess of the ice cream.

Pair these bars with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of sorbet for a refreshing contrast. A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside the bars can create a fun and indulgent dessert platter that caters to various taste preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your bars turn out too soft upon cutting, it may be due to insufficient freezing time. Ensure that they are frozen for at least 6 hours, but overnight is even better for a firmer texture. To help with slicing, let the bars sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes before cutting, making it easier to achieve clean lines without melting.

In the event that your layers don’t hold together well, check if your crust was adequately compressed. If you find they are crumbly even after proper freezing, consider increasing the ratio of butter to crumbs in your crust the next time to enhance binding. If you’re using fresh fruit, ensure it’s well-drained to prevent excess moisture from making the bars soggy.

Making It Your Own

Experimenting with flavors can lead to a delicious variety of ice cream bars. Try integrating spices like cinnamon or nutmeg into the cream mixture for warmth, or add citrus zest for brightness. You might also consider mixing in chocolate chips or cookie pieces for added texture and flavor.

For a festive twist, layer in some crushed cookies during the assembly phase, or fold in a swirl of lemon curd for a refreshing contrast to the sweet strawberries. Don’t hesitate to get creative; these bars are a versatile base for your imagination.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but fresh strawberries will provide a better texture and flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover ice cream bars in an airtight container in the freezer for up to one week.

→ Can I substitute the vanilla wafers?

Absolutely! You can use graham crackers or any favorite cookie for the crust.

→ Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute the vanilla ice cream with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.