Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

Name: Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h
Yield: 12 bars
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced; 1/2 cup sugar; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 2 cups vanilla ice cream, softened; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Collection

I love making Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars during the summer months. These delicious treats are a perfect way to beat the heat and satisfy your sweet tooth. With a creamy strawberry middle encased in a crumbly shortcake, each bite is a delightful experience. I especially enjoy the contrast of textures and flavors—the freshness of the strawberries pairs wonderfully with the rich ice cream. Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make, so I can whip them up and share with friends and family without any hassle.

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-27T20:01:35.111Z

When I first tried making ice cream bars at home, I was amazed at how simple it could be. Using fresh strawberries and a creamy ice cream base, I experimented until I found the perfect combination. It’s essential to let the strawberry mixture chill before pouring it into the molds; this helps the flavors meld beautifully. I also learned that freezing them overnight really enhances the texture, making them easier to cut into perfect bars.

One of my favorite parts about these bars is the shortcake crust. It has just the right amount of sweetness and is an excellent contrast to the rich ice cream. I often add a little vanilla to the crust for an extra layer of flavor, which elevates the whole experience. Sharing these with friends has become a joyful tradition during our summer gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich strawberry flavor bursting in every bite
Creamy, indulgent texture that's hard to resist
Perfect for hot summer days and gatherings

Understanding the Strawberry Layer

The strawberry layer is the heart of this ice cream bar, providing a fresh burst of flavor. Using ripe, in-season strawberries is crucial; they contribute the natural sweetness and vibrant color that make these bars irresistible. If strawberries are not in season, feel free to substitute with frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the texture of the final product.

When blending the strawberries, be cautious not to overmix; you want a smooth consistency without turning it into liquid. Once mixed with the softened vanilla ice cream, it should have a slightly speckled appearance, signifying the presence of strawberry bits. Allowing it to freeze for approximately two hours will help it achieve the right firmness and texture, ready for layering.

Crafting the Perfect Shortcake Crust

The shortcake crust serves as the structural base for your ice cream bars, so achieving the right texture is vital. When mixing the cold, cubed butter into the dry ingredients, aim for a coarse crumb that resembles little pebbles. This will ensure a light and crumbly texture, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy strawberry layer. Over-mixing can lead to a tough crust, so stir just until combined while retaining some visible butter chunks.

Press the dough firmly into the mold, ensuring an even layer, as this will help it hold together when cut into bars. If you prefer a sweeter crust, consider adding a tablespoon of powdered sugar. Remember to keep it stored in the refrigerator before pressing it into the mold—this gives it a firmer texture during baking.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting your recipe:

For the Strawberry Layer:

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon lemon juice
2 cups vanilla ice cream, softened

For the Shortcake Crust:

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars:

Prepare the Strawberry Mixture

In a blender, combine the fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth, then mix in the softened vanilla ice cream until evenly combined. Pour the mixture into a mold and freeze for about 2 hours.

Make the Shortcake Crust

In a bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the cold butter and mix until crumbly. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until just combined. Press this dough into the bottom of a greased mold.

Layer the Mixtures

Once the strawberry ice cream layer is sufficiently frozen, pour it over the shortcake crust in the mold. Smooth out the top and freeze for an additional 2 hours, or until firm.

Slice and Serve

Remove the bars from the mold, slice into pieces, and enjoy! Optionally, drizzle with more strawberry sauce or serve with fresh berries.

Enjoy your refreshing homemade treat!

Pro Tips

For easier slicing, let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before cutting. You can customize the flavors by using different types of berries or ice cream.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

These Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars are a fantastic make-ahead dessert. Once assembled, they can be stored in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to avoid ice crystals forming on the surface. When you plan to serve, you can take them out a few minutes early to soften slightly for easier slicing.

To extend their shelf life, consider wrapping each bar individually in plastic wrap or foil. This not only keeps them fresh longer, but also makes them easy to grab and enjoy on the go. A well-sealed ice cream bar can sometimes last up to a month in the freezer without losing flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While these ice cream bars are delightful on their own, a few simple serving suggestions can elevate your dessert experience. Drizzling with additional strawberry sauce and garnishing with fresh berries adds a fresh flair. You might also consider serving them alongside a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch.

For a flavor twist, try incorporating other fruits like ripe peaches or blueberries into the strawberry layer. You could even experiment with flavorings such as almond or coconut extract in the shortcake crust for a unique twist. Remember to adjust the sugar accordingly if you change the sweetness level of your fruit.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before blending.

→ How long do these ice cream bars last in the freezer?

They can last up to 2 months in the freezer if stored properly in an airtight container.

→ Can I substitute a different flavor of ice cream?

Absolutely! Any flavor you like will work well, such as strawberry, vanilla bean, or even chocolate.

→ What mold should I use for these bars?

A standard loaf pan works well, but you can also use popsicle molds for individual servings.