Name: Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwich
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed); 3/4 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1.5 quarts strawberry ice cream (or vanilla with strawberry swirl); 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, finely chopped (optional, for garnish or mixing into ice cream)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These ice cream sandwiches offer the perfect balance of textures and flavors — buttery shortcake, sweet and creamy strawberry ice cream, and the occasional bite of real strawberry. They’re easy to assemble and can be made ahead, making them a convenient and crowd-pleasing dessert. If you love strawberry shortcake, this frozen version will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Granulated sugar
Baking powder
Salt
Unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
Heavy cream
Vanilla extract
Fresh strawberries (optional for garnish or mixing into the ice cream)
Strawberry ice cream (or vanilla with strawberry swirl)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add heavy cream and vanilla extract, stirring just until combined. Do not overmix.
Roll or pat the dough into a ½-inch thick rectangle. Cut into equal-sized squares or rectangles for sandwich layers.
Place on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10–12 minutes, or until golden brown. Let cool completely.
Once the shortcakes are cool, slice each one horizontally if they are thick, or use two if thin.
Soften the strawberry ice cream slightly, then scoop and spread onto one side of the shortcake. Top with another shortcake to form a sandwich.
Optionally, press finely chopped fresh strawberries into the edges for extra flavor and texture.
Freeze the assembled sandwiches for at least 2 hours before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 8 ice cream sandwiches.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Bake time: 10–12 minutes
Freezing time: 2 hours
Total time: About 3 hours

Variations

Use vanilla ice cream and add sliced fresh strawberries inside the sandwich for a more classic shortcake flavor.
Add lemon zest to the shortcake dough for a citrusy twist.
Roll the sandwich edges in crushed freeze-dried strawberries or white chocolate chips for an elevated finish.
Try a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
Use heart-shaped cutters for a fun, romantic presentation.

Storage/Reheating

Wrap each sandwich individually in parchment paper or plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. No reheating is required — just let them sit out for a minute or two before eating if they’re too firm.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought shortcake?

Yes, store-bought shortcake or even pound cake can work, but homemade shortcake gives the best texture and flavor.

What’s the best type of ice cream for this?

Strawberry ice cream is classic, but you can also use vanilla with a swirl of strawberry or chunks of real fruit for added texture.

How do I make clean cuts for even sandwiches?

Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and clean it between cuts for clean edges.

Can I add fresh strawberries inside the sandwich?

Yes, thinly sliced fresh strawberries make a delicious addition and enhance the strawberry flavor.

Can I use whipped cream in place of ice cream?

Not for freezing. Whipped cream won’t hold up well in the freezer — ice cream is better for structure and stability.

How do I prevent the shortcake from becoming too hard in the freezer?

Make sure your shortcake is tender and not overbaked. Also, let the sandwiches sit at room temperature for 2–3 minutes before eating.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free ice cream and a vegan butter substitute in the shortcake dough.

What can I use if I don’t have a biscuit cutter?

A knife or a glass with a sharp edge works just as well to shape your dough.

How long can I store these in the freezer?

Up to 2 weeks is ideal for best flavor and texture, though they may last longer if stored properly.

Can I use other fruits?

Yes! Try raspberries, blueberries, or peaches for a variation on the flavor profile.

Conclusion

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Sandwiches are a fun and flavorful frozen dessert that brings together the nostalgic charm of a classic strawberry shortcake with the cool creaminess of ice cream. Perfect for summer gatherings, holidays, or just a sweet afternoon escape, these treats are as pretty as they are delicious. Give them a try and enjoy a fresh twist on a beloved favorite.