Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert loved by many, with its perfect balance of sweet, creamy, and crunchy elements.
But what if you could enjoy that same irresistible flavor in a chilled, refreshing treat?
Enter Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream — a delightful twist on the traditional shortcake, combining rich ice cream, fresh strawberries, and crumbly shortcake pieces all in one bite.
This homemade strawberry shortcake ice cream recipe is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth during the warmer months.
Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, hosting a birthday party, or simply craving something creamy and fruity, this easy-to-make treat is guaranteed to please.
With the mix of fresh strawberries, a smooth ice cream base, and crunchy shortcake biscuits, it’s like enjoying a scoop of summer in every bite.
What You’ll Need for This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Recipe
Before you start whipping up this delicious ice cream, it’s important to gather the right ingredients.
Don’t worry, you don’t need anything too fancy!
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this strawberry shortcake ice cream a reality.
Ingredients for the Ice Cream Base
For the creamy, dreamy ice cream, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
- Fresh Strawberries – The star of this recipe! Fresh, ripe strawberries are best for that vibrant, natural flavor. They’ll be blended into a puree that gives the ice cream its fruity, refreshing taste.
- Heavy Cream – This will give your ice cream its signature rich and creamy texture. The heavy cream is essential for making the ice cream smooth and luscious.
- Whole Milk – A lighter alternative to cream, whole milk helps balance the richness and creates the perfect consistency.
- Sugar – To sweeten the ice cream and enhance the natural flavor of the strawberries. You can adjust the amount depending on how sweet you like your ice cream.
- Vanilla Extract – A dash of vanilla adds depth to the flavor, making it even more indulgent. It complements the strawberries and brings a warm, comforting note to the ice cream.
Ingredients for the Crunchy Shortcake Pieces
The shortcake pieces are what truly elevate this recipe and add that satisfying crunch:
- Shortcake Biscuits – You can either use store-bought shortcake biscuits or make your own if you prefer a homemade touch. These biscuits are the perfect crunchy complement to the creamy ice cream. Break them into bite-sized pieces to create those irresistible little crunches in every scoop.
- Optional: Sugar or Cinnamon – If you’re looking to add a bit more flavor to the shortcake pieces, a sprinkle of sugar or a pinch of cinnamon will do the trick. This extra step adds a little something special to the texture and taste.
With these ingredients, you’ll be able to create a strawberry shortcake ice cream that’s as indulgent as it is refreshing!
How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream at Home
Making strawberry shortcake ice cream at home is surprisingly easy and incredibly rewarding.
With a few simple steps, you can enjoy this delicious treat in no time.
Here’s how you can make it:
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Puree
Start by washing and hulling your fresh strawberries.
This ensures they’re clean and ready to be blended. Once they’re prepped, place the strawberries in a blender or food processor and puree them until smooth.
If you like your ice cream extra smooth, you can cook the puree down to thicken it slightly.
Place the puree in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of sugar to taste.
Stir occasionally, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until it reaches a thicker consistency.
Afterward, remove the puree from the heat and allow it to cool completely.
Step 2: Prepare the Ice Cream Base
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract.
Continue to whisk until the sugar is fully dissolved into the cream and milk mixture, creating a smooth base.
Once the strawberry puree has cooled, stir it into the cream mixture.
Make sure it’s fully combined and smooth.
This is where the strawberry flavor really infuses into the ice cream base, giving it that rich, fruity taste.
Step 3: Freeze the Ice Cream
If you have an ice cream maker, pour the prepared mixture into the machine and churn it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Most ice cream makers take around 20-25 minutes to churn the mixture into soft-serve consistency.
For those without an ice cream maker, no worries!
Simply pour the ice cream mixture into an airtight container, then place it in the freezer.
Every 30 minutes, stir the mixture vigorously with a fork to break up any ice crystals.
Continue this process for about 3-4 hours until the ice cream firms up.
Step 4: Add the Shortcake Pieces
Once your ice cream reaches a soft-serve consistency, it’s time to add the shortcake pieces.
Break your shortcake biscuits into bite-sized pieces and fold them gently into the ice cream base.
You want the shortcake to be evenly distributed throughout the mixture but still retain some texture.
If you’re using store-bought shortcake biscuits, feel free to give them a quick dusting of cinnamon or sugar before adding them into the ice cream for a little extra flavor.
Step 5: Final Freezing
Once you’ve mixed in the shortcake pieces, transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place it back into the freezer.
Allow it to freeze for an additional 4-6 hours or overnight until it’s firm enough to scoop.
Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
To ensure your strawberry shortcake ice cream turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
Use Fresh Strawberries for the Best Flavor
Fresh strawberries are essential for this recipe.
They provide the most vibrant, natural flavor and contribute to a smooth, refreshing taste.
Be sure to pick ripe, sweet strawberries for the best results.
If fresh strawberries aren’t in season, frozen strawberries can also be used, though the flavor might not be as intense.
Don’t Skip the Churning Process
If you’re using an ice cream maker, make sure to churn the mixture well. This is the key to achieving a smooth and creamy texture.
Churning incorporates air into the mixture, preventing ice crystals from forming and giving your ice cream a soft, velvety consistency.
If you don’t have an ice cream maker, remember to stir the mixture every 30 minutes if using the no-churn method.
This ensures a smooth texture and prevents large ice crystals from forming, which would affect the creaminess of the ice cream.
Customize the Shortcake Pieces
Feel free to get creative with the shortcake pieces!
If you’re using store-bought shortcakes, try adding a touch of cinnamon or sugar before breaking them up and mixing them into the ice cream.
If you prefer a bit more texture, try adding more shortcake pieces, or for a lighter option, add fewer pieces for a more delicate crunch.
Make It Dairy-Free
If you want to make this recipe dairy-free, simply substitute the heavy cream and whole milk with coconut milk or almond milk.
Both alternatives will still create a creamy texture, and the coconut milk will add a subtle coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with the strawberries.
Keep the Ice Cream Well-Frozen
To store your ice cream, make sure it’s in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn and preserve its flavor.
Store it in the coldest part of the freezer for the best results.
Let the ice cream soften for a few minutes at room temperature before scooping for the perfect texture.
How to Serve and Store Your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Once your strawberry shortcake ice cream is ready and perfectly frozen, it’s time to enjoy!
Here are some serving and storing tips to make sure you get the most out of this delicious treat.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry shortcake ice cream can be served in a variety of ways, depending on your preference or occasion.
For an extra indulgent experience, you can serve it in waffle cones, making the crunch of the cone complement the shortcake pieces in the ice cream.
If you prefer bowls, a simple dish will allow the ice cream to take center stage.
Top the ice cream with extra shortcake crumbs for an added crunch, or even a few fresh strawberries to enhance the fruity flavor.
You could also drizzle a little chocolate or caramel syrup over the top for an indulgent finish.
For a fun twist, serve your ice cream alongside a slice of fresh strawberry shortcake for the ultimate double dessert experience!
Storage Tips
To ensure your strawberry shortcake ice cream stays fresh and tasty, store it in an airtight container in the freezer.
It will stay delicious for up to two weeks, but make sure to eat it sooner if possible for the best texture and flavor.
If you need to store the ice cream for longer, consider placing a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly on top of the ice cream before sealing the container.
This helps prevent ice crystals from forming and keeps the ice cream smooth and creamy.
When you’re ready to serve, take the ice cream out of the freezer and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to soften slightly.
This makes scooping much easier and ensures a smoother texture when serving.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this strawberry shortcake ice cream, from its creamy texture to its balance of sweet and crunchy elements.
Here’s why this treat is sure to become a favorite:
Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures
This ice cream brings together the best of both worlds: a creamy, smooth base flavored with fresh strawberries, and the delightful crunch of shortcake pieces scattered throughout.
The combination of rich creaminess with the light, crumbly crunch creates a texture that’s simply irresistible.
A Refreshing Summer Treat
With the bright, fruity flavor of strawberries, this ice cream is perfect for hot summer days.
It’s refreshing, light, and indulgent all at the same time.
Whether you’re enjoying a sunny day on the porch or hosting a summer BBQ, this dessert will be the star of any occasion.
Customization Options
One of the best things about this recipe is how customizable it is.
You can easily tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
Want to make it dairy-free? Just swap in coconut or almond milk.
Looking for a more intense strawberry flavor? Add extra strawberry puree.
You can even play with the texture by adding more or less shortcake, depending on how crunchy you like it.
Made with Fresh, Simple Ingredients
Unlike store-bought ice cream, which may contain artificial flavors and preservatives, this recipe uses fresh strawberries, real cream, and natural ingredients.
It’s a simple, wholesome way to enjoy a classic dessert without any of the unnecessary additives.
A Crowd-Pleaser
This strawberry shortcake ice cream is guaranteed to impress your friends and family.
It’s a dessert that blends nostalgia with a modern twist, making it perfect for all ages.
Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a treat for a casual evening, this ice cream is always a hit.
Conclusion
Making your own strawberry shortcake ice cream is not only fun but also incredibly rewarding.
This homemade treat is a perfect blend of creamy, fruity, and crunchy goodness that will have you coming back for seconds (and thirds!).
Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm day or serving it at a special gathering, this recipe will surely impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.
The best part is that you can easily customize it to suit your preferences and dietary needs, all while using fresh, wholesome ingredients.
So, grab your ice cream maker or just your freezer, and get ready to indulge in the refreshing, delicious taste of strawberry shortcake ice cream.
It’s a dessert that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make strawberry shortcake ice cream without an ice cream maker?
Yes! If you don’t have an ice cream maker, you can still make this recipe using the no-churn method.
Simply follow the steps to prepare the ice cream base, then pour it into an airtight container and freeze.
Stir the mixture every 30 minutes for 3-4 hours to prevent large ice crystals from forming, and you’ll still have smooth and creamy ice cream.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Absolutely! While fresh strawberries are ideal for the best flavor, frozen strawberries can also work in this recipe.
Just make sure to thaw them before pureeing them. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.
3. How long does this strawberry shortcake ice cream last in the freezer?
This ice cream will last in the freezer for up to two weeks.
Make sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
To prevent freezer burn, you can also place a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap directly on the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container.
4. Can I use store-bought shortcake biscuits?
Yes, store-bought shortcake biscuits work perfectly in this recipe!
You can easily break them into bite-sized pieces and fold them into the ice cream.
If you want to add a little extra flavor, try sprinkling the biscuits with a pinch of cinnamon or sugar before mixing them into the ice cream.
5. Can I make this ice cream dairy-free?
Yes, you can make this ice cream dairy-free by substituting the heavy cream and whole milk with plant-based alternatives, such as coconut milk or almond milk.
Coconut milk works especially well, adding a subtle tropical flavor that complements the strawberries beautifully.
Just be sure to use a full-fat version to maintain that creamy texture.
Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream
Equipment
- 1 ice cream maker (optional)
- 1 Blender or Food Processor
- 1 large mixing bowl
- (1) Whisk
- 1 spatula
- 1 Airtight Container (for freezing the ice cream)
Ingredients
For the Ice Cream Base:
- 2 cups 480 ml Heavy Cream
- 1 cup 240 ml Whole Milk
- ¾ cup 150 g Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 2 cups 300 g Fresh Strawberries
For the Shortcake Pieces:
- 6-8 Store-bought or Homemade Shortcake Biscuits or 1½ cups of crumbled shortcake
Instructions
Prepare the Strawberry Puree:
- Wash and hull the strawberries, then blend them into a puree using a blender or food processor. For a thicker, richer flavor, cook the puree in a saucepan over low heat with 2 tbsp sugar for 10-15 minutes until reduced. Allow to cool before proceeding.
Make the Ice Cream Base:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar dissolves completely. Add the cooled strawberry puree and stir until fully combined.
Churn the Ice Cream:
- If using an ice cream maker, pour the mixture into the machine and churn according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically about 20-25 minutes.
Add the Shortcake:
- Once the ice cream reaches soft-serve consistency, gently fold in the crumbled shortcake pieces until evenly distributed.
Freeze:
- Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and place in the freezer for 4-6 hours or until fully set and firm.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the ice cream to sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before scooping. Serve in bowls or cones, and top with extra shortcake crumbs or fresh strawberries if desired.
Notes
- Texture Tip: If you don’t have an ice cream maker, use the no-churn method by freezing the mixture in an airtight container. Stir the ice cream every 30 minutes for the first 3-4 hours to break up ice crystals for a smooth texture.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the heavy cream and milk with coconut milk or almond milk to make this recipe dairy-free. Full-fat coconut milk will help create the creamy consistency needed for ice cream.
- Shortcake Variations: Feel free to use homemade shortcake biscuits for a personalized touch. A sprinkle of cinnamon or sugar on the shortcake pieces before adding them to the ice cream can add an extra flavor boost.
- Storing the Ice Cream: Store the ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer for up to two weeks. Let it soften for a few minutes before scooping for easier serving.
