The Story & Intro
Hi, I’m Marilyn, 38, from the sun-drenched island of Crete in Greece. One summer afternoon, my grandmother and I were picking fresh strawberries from her garden. It was scorching, and I longed for something cool and sweet. That’s when she suggested a simple, no-bake dessert: strawberries, cream, and crunchy cake layered into icy bars.
Those no-bake strawberry shortcake ice cream bars quickly became my favorite summer treat. The combination of sweet strawberries, creamy ice cream, and soft shortcake is just magical. They’re perfect for family gatherings, a picnic, or even a spontaneous afternoon indulgence. What I love most is that these bars are fuss-free no oven needed, just love, patience, and a freezer!
Even now, I make them for my friends here in Crete. We sit on the terrace, sipping iced tea, and the first bite of these bars always brings big smiles. The joy of dessert isn’t just in the eating it’s in the memories, the laughter, and the simple sweetness of life.
These no-bake strawberry shortcake ice cream bars are perfect for anyone who wants a homemade dessert without the heat of the kitchen. They’re light, refreshing, and bursting with strawberry flavor. I promise, once you make them, they’ll be a staple of your summer desserts.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 2 cups graham cracker crumbs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
For the ice cream filling:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the strawberry layer:
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, diced
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
Optional garnish:
- Extra strawberries, whipped cream, or chocolate drizzle
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Layer
Mix diced strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for 15–20 minutes to release juices. This will create a natural syrup for your ice cream bars.
Step 2: Make the Graham Cracker Crust
In a bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and sugar. Press the mixture firmly into a lined 9×9-inch pan. Chill in the freezer for 10 minutes to set.
Step 3: Whip the Cream
Beat heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Assemble the Bars
Spread half of the whipped cream mixture over the chilled crust. Add a layer of strawberries, then top with the remaining whipped cream. Smooth the surface with a spatula.
Step 5: Freeze Until Firm
Cover the pan with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. Cut into bars just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these bars chilled with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of melted chocolate. Perfect for a summer picnic, backyard party, or a spontaneous dessert craving. I love placing them on a wooden platter, garnished with fresh strawberries for a festive look.
Conclusion
Making these no-bake strawberry shortcake ice cream bars brings back sweet memories of my grandmother’s garden and the long summer days of Crete. They’re simple, refreshing, and full of strawberry goodness. Perfect for families, friends, or a quiet treat for yourself. Remember, desserts aren’t just food they’re memories, joy, and a little taste of love.
Enjoy the process, share with those you care about, and savor every bite of these icy, sweet bars. They’re summer happiness on a stick without the stick!
100-Word Short Version
These no-bake strawberry shortcake ice cream bars are a refreshing summer treat. A buttery graham cracker crust meets fluffy whipped cream and juicy strawberries for a dessert that’s easy and delicious. Inspired by Crete’s summer afternoons, this recipe requires no oven, just a little freezer time. Layer crust, cream, and strawberries, then chill until firm. Perfect for picnics, parties, or a sweet solo indulgence, these ice cream bars are creamy, fruity, and delightful. Share them with friends or family, and make summer memories with every bite of this cool, sweet treat.