Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Summer is the perfect time for cool treats, and what better way to celebrate than with these delightful Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars? Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hosting a backyard barbecue, these bars are sure to be a hit. They combine the sweetness of strawberries with rich, creamy ice cream, all encased in a delicious shortcake layer.
Imagine biting into a smooth, creamy center filled with fresh strawberries, surrounded by a crunchy, buttery shortcake crust. This nostalgic dessert will take you back to carefree summer days, and they’re surprisingly simple to make at home. No ice cream machine needed!
These bars are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them a perfect addition to any dessert platter. The bright red strawberries against the white ice cream and golden crust create a beautiful contrast that’s hard to resist.

Layers of Flavor
Homemade Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars present a delightful mix of textures and flavors. Each layer plays a crucial role in creating a balanced treat that’s sure to please.
The base consists of buttery shortcake crumbs, which provide a crunchy foundation. This is complemented by a rich and creamy ice cream layer, made smooth with heavy cream and sweetened condensed milk. Fresh, juicy strawberries add a burst of natural sweetness and a pop of color.
Fresh Strawberries: The Star Ingredient
Strawberries are the highlight of these ice cream bars. Their natural sweetness and vibrant hue enhance both the taste and appearance of this dessert.
To maximize their flavor, the strawberries should be hulled and sliced, then mixed with a bit of sugar to allow them to macerate. This process draws out their juices and intensifies their sweetness, making each bite refreshing and luscious.
A Crunchy Shortcake Crust
The shortcake crust is essential for adding texture and structure to the bars. It’s made from crushed shortcake cookies combined with melted butter and a pinch of salt.
This mixture forms a sturdy bottom layer that holds everything together, while also offering a delightful contrast to the creamy ice cream and fresh strawberries. The buttery flavor enhances the overall experience, making each bite satisfying.
Simple Preparation Steps
Making these ice cream bars is straightforward and doesn’t require any special equipment like an ice cream machine. The preparation begins with the strawberries, followed by the ice cream base, and finally assembling the layers in a baking dish.
Once layered, the dish needs to be covered and placed in the freezer for a few hours. This freezing time is crucial, as it ensures the bars set up properly and are easy to cut into squares when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions
Once frozen, the Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars can be cut into neat squares for serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or garnished with additional fresh strawberries for a vibrant presentation.
For a festive touch, consider pairing these bars with a drizzle of chocolate or a dollop of whipped cream. They make a delightful dessert for summer gatherings, barbecues, or simply a joyful day spent outdoors.
A Treat for Any Occasion
These Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars are suitable for various occasions, whether it’s a casual family gathering or a festive celebration. Their eye-catching appearance and delightful taste make them a welcome addition to any dessert table.
With their combination of creamy, fruity, and crunchy elements, they capture the essence of summer and the joy of sharing delicious treats with friends and family.
Delicious and Easy Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Recipe

These Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars are a delightful combination of creamy vanilla ice cream, fresh strawberries, and a buttery shortcake crust. Each bite offers a balance of sweetness and texture, making them an enjoyable treat on a hot day.
Ingredients
- 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup shortcake crumbs (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: In a small bowl, mix sliced strawberries with granulated sugar and let them macerate for about 30 minutes until juicy.
- Make the Ice Cream Base: In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Layer the Bars: In a 9×9 inch baking dish, combine shortcake crumbs, melted butter, and a pinch of salt. Press half of this mixture into the bottom of the dish. Pour half of the ice cream base over the crust and spread evenly. Add the macerated strawberries in an even layer, followed by the remaining ice cream base. Finally, sprinkle the remaining shortcake crumb mixture on top.
- Freeze: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or until fully set.
- Serve: Once the bars are frozen solid, remove from the dish and cut into squares. Enjoy your refreshing Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Freeze Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 12 bars
- Calories: 200kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 26g