The Berry Icebox Cake is a refreshing and delightful dessert that encapsulates the essence of summer with its juicy berries and light, creamy layers. This no-bake cake is incredibly easy to assemble and perfect for warm weather gatherings, offering a sweet, cool respite that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ingredients:
- 3 ¼ cups chilled heavy whipping cream
- ⅓ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 4 cups thinly sliced strawberries
- 1 cup blueberries
- 28 whole graham crackers
- Additional sliced strawberries and blueberries, for garnish
- Fresh mint, for garnish (optional)
Preparation:
Preparing the Whipped Cream:
Step 1:
In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to whip the chilled heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until soft peaks form. This process should take about 5 to 7 minutes on medium-high speed.
Step 2:
Set aside ¾ cup of the whipped cream for the base layer of the icebox cake.
Step 3:
Very gently fold in the sliced strawberries and blueberries into the remaining whipped cream, using a rubber spatula. Be careful to fold in the berries without deflating the whipped cream to maintain a light, airy texture.
Assembling the Cake:
Step 4:
Spread the reserved ¾ cup of whipped cream evenly on the bottom of a 13x9-inch dish. This helps the graham crackers stick and not move when layering.
Step 5:
Arrange graham crackers over the whipped cream layer, placing them side by side without overlapping. They should cover the entire surface.
Step 6:
Spoon about 1 cup of the berry whipped cream mixture over the graham crackers, gently spreading to cover them evenly.
Step 7:
Repeat the layering process, alternating graham crackers and berry whipped cream, to create four layers of each, ending with the whipped cream on top.
Garnishing and Chilling the Cake:
Step 8:
Decorate the top layer with additional sliced strawberries and blueberries for a colorful and appetizing finish.
Step 9:
Cover the dish and refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld. Avoid chilling for more than 24 hours to prevent the cake from becoming too soggy.
COOKING Note:
The key to a successful icebox cake is the chilling time, which allows the graham crackers to absorb moisture from the whipped cream, softening them to a cake-like texture.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the Berry Icebox Cake chilled, cut into squares. Garnish each serving with fresh mint leaves for an added touch of flavor and elegance.
Tips:
- For a lighter version, use a mixture of heavy cream and light cream, or even a whipped cream substitute.
- Experiment with different berries or fruits according to season and preference.
- Ensure the berries are patted dry after washing to prevent excess moisture from seeping into the whipped cream.
Prep Time:
- 30 minutes
Cooking Time:
- 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Total Time:
- 2 hours 30 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving, depending on the size of the slice and the exact ingredients used.
- Protein: About 3g per serving
- Sodium: Approximately 200mg per serving
The Berry Icebox Cake is a perfect summer dessert that combines the freshness of berries with the richness of whipped cream and the satisfying crunch of graham crackers. It’s a delightful, easy-to-make treat that requires no baking and can be customized to suit any taste, making it a versatile option for various occasions and gatherings.
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