Imagine a dessert so decadent, so effortlessly elegant, that it requires zero baking and delivers maximum flavor! This Icebox Cake Berries and Cream is your secret weapon for impressing guests without spending hours in a hot kitchen. With layers of luscious whipped cream, chocolate wafer cookies, and a burst of fresh berries, this dessert is like a dream that comes together in just 20 minutes. Get ready to transform simple ingredients into a show-stopping treat that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: -
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 package (14 oz) chocolate wafer cookies
- 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, whip the cream mixture on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, approximately 3-4 minutes. The cream should be thick and hold its shape when the beaters are lifted.
- Prepare a 9x9 inch rectangular dish or a similar-sized serving platter. Begin layering by spreading a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom of the dish to create a base.
- Arrange a single layer of chocolate wafer cookies over the cream, slightly overlapping them to cover the entire surface. Some breaking of cookies may be necessary to fit the dish completely.
- Generously spread a layer of whipped cream over the cookies, ensuring complete coverage. Use approximately 1/3 of the remaining whipped cream for this layer.
- Sprinkle a portion of the mixed berries over the cream layer, distributing them evenly.
- Repeat the layering process: cookies, whipped cream, and berries, creating 2-3 total layers depending on the depth of your dish.
- For the final top layer, cover the entire surface with the remaining whipped cream and decorate with the remaining mixed berries.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4-6 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the cookies to soften and absorb the cream, creating a cake-like texture.
- Before serving, remove from refrigerator and let sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes. Slice and serve chilled, garnishing with additional fresh berries if desired.
Tips
- Whip the cream to stiff peaks, but be careful not to over-beat, which can make the cream grainy.
- Use chilled mixing bowl and beaters for the fluffiest whipped cream.
- Choose ripe, fresh berries for the most intense flavor.
- For best texture, let the cake rest in the refrigerator overnight to allow cookies to soften completely.
- If you can't find chocolate wafer cookies, chocolate graham crackers make an excellent substitute.
- For a more stable whipped cream, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of mascarpone cheese while whipping.
- Ensure cookies are completely covered with cream to help them soften evenly.
- Serve chilled for the most refreshing summer dessert experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 100mg
