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Easy Red White and Blue Berry Icebox Cake: Best No-Bake Dessert

berry icebox cake - featured image

This no-bake berry icebox cake layers vanilla wafers, fresh strawberries, blueberries, and whipped cream for a cold, creamy, and festive dessert perfect for summer gatherings. It’s simple to make and tastes even better after chilling overnight.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box (about 11 oz) vanilla wafers (e.g., Nilla wafers)
  • 1 pint (473 ml) heavy whipping cream, cold
  • 1/4 cup (30 g) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 1 cup fresh blueberries
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions

  1. Whip the cream: Pour cold heavy whipping cream into a large chilled bowl. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest (if using). Beat on medium-high speed until soft peaks form, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Prepare the berries: Rinse strawberries and pat dry. Slice off tops and cut into 1/4-inch slices. Rinse blueberries and let dry on paper towels. Ensure berries are completely dry.
  3. Layer one: Spread a thin, even layer of whipped cream on the bottom of an 8×8 or 9×9 square baking dish. Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers on top, covering completely. Break wafers to fill gaps.
  4. Layer two: Spread about one-third of the remaining whipped cream over the wafers. Arrange a layer of sliced strawberries on top, then scatter a handful of blueberries. Press berries in lightly.
  5. Layer three: Add another layer of vanilla wafers, pressing gently. Spread another third of the whipped cream over the wafers. Top with another layer of strawberries and blueberries.
  6. Layer four: Add the final layer of vanilla wafers. Spread the last of the whipped cream over the top, smoothing evenly. Arrange remaining berries decoratively on top. Optionally, crumble a few wafers over the top.
  7. Chill: Cover dish tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, until wafers soften and cake holds its shape.
  8. Serve: Remove from fridge about 10 minutes before serving. Slice into squares and serve cold.

Notes

Do not overwhip the cream; it can turn into butter. Dry berries thoroughly to prevent sogginess. Press wafers gently after each layer. For best results, chill overnight. Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: icebox cake, no-bake dessert, berry dessert, Fourth of July, summer dessert, vanilla wafers, strawberries, blueberries