Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream: The Ultimate Homemade & Store-Bought Guide
Discover the best strawberry shortcake ice cream recipes, tips & fun facts. Easy homemade ideas and nostalgic flavors for summer and beyond!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6–8 hours
- Total Time: 8 hours
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base:
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2 cups heavy whipping cream (cold)
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1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
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1 tsp pure vanilla extract
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1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and finely chopped or pureed
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Optional: 2 tbsp strawberry jam for swirl
For the Shortcake Crunch Topping:
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12 Golden Oreos or vanilla sandwich cookies
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1/4 cup freeze-dried strawberries
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2 tbsp melted unsalted butter
Instructions
1. Make the Crunch Topping
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Add cookies and freeze-dried strawberries to a food processor.
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Pulse until crumbly, but not powdery.
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Pour in melted butter and stir to coat.
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Set aside.
2. Whip the Cream
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In a large bowl, whip cold heavy cream to stiff peaks using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
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Be careful not to over-whip!
3. Mix the Base
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In a separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree.
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Gently fold the whipped cream into the mixture until smooth and airy.
4. Layer and Assemble
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Pour half of the ice cream mixture into a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
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Sprinkle a generous layer of crunch topping.
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Add remaining ice cream, smooth the top, and finish with another layer of crunch.
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Swirl in strawberry jam if using, using a skewer or knife.
5. Freeze
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Cover with foil or plastic wrap.
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Freeze for at least 6 hours or overnight until firm.
6. Serve
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Let sit at room temp for 5 minutes before scooping.
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Top with fresh strawberries or extra crunch topping if desired.
Notes
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No Food Processor?
You can crush cookies and freeze-dried strawberries in a zip-top bag using a rolling pin. It works just as well for the crunch topping! -
Make-Ahead Tip:
This ice cream keeps well in the freezer for up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container. Let it thaw 5–10 minutes before scooping. -
Fresh vs. Frozen Strawberries:
Fresh strawberries give a brighter, fresher flavor, but thawed frozen strawberries work great too—just be sure to drain excess liquid before blending. -
Craving Extra Crunch?
Double the shortcake crumble recipe and store the extra in a sealed jar. Sprinkle it over other desserts or even yogurt! -
Low-Sugar Option:
Use low-sugar condensed milk and skip the strawberry jam to reduce sweetness. -
Loaf Pan Alternative:
Don’t have a loaf pan? Use a freezer-safe cake pan, pie dish, or individual ramekins to portion out smaller servings. -
Want a Pinker Ice Cream?
Add a drop of natural food coloring or use a bit more strawberry puree for a vibrant hue without artificial dyes.
Keywords: strawberry shortcake ice cream
The Ultimate Guide to Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Summertime is calling, and nothing screams “sweet nostalgia” like strawberry shortcake ice cream! Whether you remember chasing the ice cream truck for a crunchy pink bar or you’re just discovering this fruity, creamy treat, you’re in for a ride. In this article, we’ll explore what makes strawberry shortcake ice cream so irresistible, how to make it at home, and even dive into crunchy toppings, nostalgic facts, and where to grab a box when cravings hit. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most Googled questions about this delicious dessert. Let’s chill and dig in!
Introduction
Summertime is calling, and nothing screams “sweet nostalgia” like strawberry shortcake ice cream! Whether you remember chasing the ice cream truck for a crunchy pink bar or you’re just discovering this fruity, creamy treat, you’re in for a ride. In this article, we’ll explore what makes strawberry shortcake ice cream so irresistible, how to make it at home, and even dive into crunchy toppings, nostalgic facts, and where to grab a box when cravings hit. Plus, we’ll answer some of the most Googled questions about this delicious dessert. Let’s chill and dig in!
What Is Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream?
What is Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream?
Strawberry shortcake ice cream is a frozen dessert that blends the creamy richness of vanilla ice cream with the fruity burst of strawberry and a crumbly, buttery shortcake texture. It’s often served as an ice cream bar, cake, or scoopable treat layered with strawberry swirl, shortcake crumbs, and vanilla ice cream.
Origin and Evolution of the Flavor
Originally made popular by brands like Good Humor, this nostalgic treat started as an ice cream truck classic. Over the years, it’s evolved into no-churn homemade recipes, ice cream cakes, and even dairy-free alternatives. Its perfect blend of textures and flavors has helped it stay a summer dessert favorite for generations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients for the Ice Cream Base
To make a dreamy strawberry shortcake ice cream, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients. The base usually includes heavy cream, condensed milk, vanilla extract, and of course, fresh strawberries. This no-churn method is a time-saver and doesn’t require fancy equipment. Want an extra punch of flavor? Add a swirl of homemade strawberry pie filling—it’s a total game changer!
The “Shortcake Crunch” Topping: What It’s Made Of
That signature shortcake crunch topping is what turns this treat into an icon. It’s a combo of crushed vanilla cookies, freeze-dried strawberries, and a bit of melted butter to bind it all together. You’ll sprinkle this on top and mix some into the ice cream itself for that famous crunchy bite.
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream at Home
Step-by-Step Preparation Process
Start by whipping cold heavy cream until stiff peaks form. In a separate bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and pureed strawberries. Fold the whipped cream gently into the strawberry mixture until smooth. Then, pour half of it into a loaf pan.
Sprinkle a generous layer of the shortcake crunch topping (don’t be shy!), then add the rest of the ice cream mix. Finish it off with even more of that golden crumb. Freeze it for at least 6 hours, or overnight for best results. Boom—you’ve got yourself a classic, creamy treat without the churn!
Tips for Texture and Flavor Enhancements
Want that ice cream truck taste? Toss in strawberry chunks for texture, or swirl in some strawberry jam or syrup. For a healthier spin, try using Greek yogurt in place of heavy cream. Feeling adventurous? Drizzle white chocolate before freezing for a decadent twist.for more search about this recipe look at https://www.allrecipes.com/search?q=Strawberry+Shortcake+Ice+Cream
Creative Twists and Variations
Ice Cream Sandwiches, Bars & Cakes
Freeze your strawberry shortcake ice cream in a sheet pan, then cut it into squares for ice cream sandwiches. Or layer it in a springform pan for a gorgeous ice cream cake. It’s fun, festive, and super Instagram-worthy!
Vegan, Dairy-Free, or Keto Versions
Dairy-free? Use coconut cream. Keto? Swap cookies for almond flour crumble and use monk fruit sweetener. No matter your needs, there’s a way to enjoy this nostalgic summer treat.
Where to Buy Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Top Brands in Stores (e.g., Good Humor)
Good Humor remains a classic brand, but newer artisan brands offer small-batch and organic options. Most grocery stores stock this frozen favorite year-round, but it peaks in summer.
Fun Facts & Nostalgia
The Ice Cream Truck Classic
For many, strawberry shortcake ice cream was the first pick from the ice cream truck. Its crunchy pink topping and creamy center are forever iconic.
The Return of 90s Treats
This nostalgic treat is popping up again in TikTok trends and grocery aisles. Retro is back—and it’s delicious.
FAQs – People Also Ask
What is the strawberry shortcake ice cream made of?
It’s a creamy mix of vanilla ice cream, strawberry puree, and crunchy cookie topping made with freeze-dried strawberries and crushed vanilla wafers.
What are the strawberry shortcake crunchies made of?
They’re made of crushed cookies (like Golden Oreos or shortbread), freeze-dried strawberries, and melted butter.
Is strawberry shortcake a British dessert?
Originally, yes. The shortcake concept stems from British baking, but this modern ice cream version is a distinctly American creation.
What happened to the strawberry shortcake ice cream game?
It was part of the Strawberry Shortcake character brand. Many versions were removed from app stores over time due to licensing shifts.