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Savory Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Recipe

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You need 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Start by hulling and slicing them. This means removing the green tops and cutting them into thin pieces. Fresh strawberries add great flavor and sweetness to your bars. They also give a nice color and texture. For this recipe, grab 1 pint of vanilla ice cream. Make sure it is slightly softened. This makes it easier to spread over the crust. Vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and a rich taste. It pairs well with the strawberries and crust. To make the crust, you will need: - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Mix these three items together. The graham cracker crumbs give a nice crunch. The melted butter binds everything together. The vanilla extract adds extra flavor. This crust is the base for your ice cream bars. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by washing your fresh strawberries. Then, hull and slice them. Place the sliced strawberries in a medium bowl. Add one tablespoon of sugar and one teaspoon of lemon juice. Toss the strawberries gently to coat them. Let them sit for about 15 to 20 minutes. This time helps draw out the juices. The strawberries will become sweet and juicy, perfect for our bars. While the strawberries sit, prepare the graham cracker crust. In a separate bowl, mix one cup of graham cracker crumbs with half a cup of melted unsalted butter. Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Stir until the mixture looks like wet sand. Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish. Make sure it forms an even layer for a sturdy base. Now it’s time to assemble your bars. Spread one pint of slightly softened vanilla ice cream over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Next, spoon the macerated strawberries over the ice cream. Spread them out so every bite has strawberry goodness. Optionally, sprinkle some more graham cracker crumbs on top for added crunch. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Let the bars freeze for at least four hours or until they are completely firm. Once frozen, lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares or rectangles. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a mint leaf on top for a lovely touch. To make the best crust, use fresh graham cracker crumbs. I suggest crushing the crackers by hand for a coarser texture. This adds a nice bite to each bar. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and vanilla extract. It should feel like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the dish. Make sure it’s even. This helps the crust hold together when you cut the bars. To cut the bars, first, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This makes cutting easier. Use a sharp knife for clean edges. Wipe the knife between cuts to keep it clean. You can serve the bars straight from the freezer too. Just add a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh mint leaf on top. It makes for a pretty presentation! Feel free to get creative with flavors! You can swap strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or peaches. For a twist, try adding a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla. If you're feeling adventurous, mix in some cookie dough bites or chocolate chips. These changes add fun and surprise to each bite. Pro Tips Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. They will enhance the overall taste of your ice cream bars. Chill Your Bowl: Before mixing the ice cream, chill your mixing bowl in the freezer for a few minutes. This helps keep the ice cream from melting too quickly while you spread it. Customize Your Crust: Feel free to experiment with different types of crumbs for the crust, such as chocolate or vanilla wafers, to add a unique twist to your ice cream bars. Let Them Set: For optimal texture, ensure your bars freeze for the full 4 hours. If you can wait longer, overnight is even better for a firmer consistency. {{image_2}} You can easily make dairy-free strawberry shortcake ice cream bars. Use coconut milk ice cream instead of vanilla. This adds a nice twist and keeps it creamy. You can also use almond milk or cashew milk ice cream. Both options taste great and are easy to find in stores. While strawberries are delicious, you can switch things up. Try blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a fun twist. Just like with strawberries, mix them with sugar and lemon juice. This will give you a sweet filling that pairs well with the crust and ice cream. You can even combine different fruits for a colorful treat. Vanilla ice cream is classic, but feel free to explore! Use strawberry ice cream for a stronger berry flavor. Chocolate ice cream adds a rich taste and pairs well with all fruits. You can even try lemon or mint ice cream for a fresh burst. The key is to choose flavors that will complement your fruit choice. To store leftover strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, place them in an airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. This keeps the bars fresh and easy to grab. For best freshness, wrap each bar in plastic wrap before storing. This protects them from freezer burn. Ensure your freezer is set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower. This helps maintain the ice cream's creamy texture. These bars can last up to two weeks in the freezer. If you want to serve them later, remove them from the freezer and let them sit for a few minutes. This makes cutting easier. Serve with whipped cream and mint for a fun touch! Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. In fact, they taste better after freezing overnight. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. You can store them in the freezer for up to two weeks. Just keep them covered with plastic wrap. This keeps them fresh and prevents freezer burn. You can add many fun ingredients to these bars. Try using crushed nuts for crunch. Chopped chocolate can add a sweet touch. You might also want to mix in some other fruits. Blueberries or raspberries work well with strawberries. Get creative and make it your own! You can find pre-made strawberry shortcake ice cream bars at most grocery stores. Check in the ice cream section. Look for brands that focus on natural ingredients. Local ice cream shops may also have their own version. These bars are a great option if you want a quick treat. You learned how to make delicious strawberry shortcake ice cream bars from fresh ingredients. We covered how to prepare strawberries, make the perfect graham cracker crust, and assemble the bars. I shared tips for cutting and serving, plus ideas for flavors and options. You can store leftovers well to keep them fresh. This treat is easy to customize and enjoy anytime. Now, grab your ingredients and start making these tasty bars today!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Craving a sweet treat? Let me show you how to make delicious Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars! With fresh strawberries, creamy vanilla ice cream, and a crunchy graham cracker crust, these bars are a hit for any occasion. I’ll guide you step-by-step so you can impress your friends and family. Ready to dive in? Follow along, and let’s create a dessert that everyone will love!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Fresh and Fruity: The combination of fresh strawberries and creamy vanilla ice cream creates a delightful balance of flavors that is refreshing and satisfying.
  2. Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and just a few ingredients, making it perfect for a quick summer treat.
  3. Perfect for Sharing: These ice cream bars are easy to cut and serve, making them a great option for gatherings and parties.
  4. Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe by adding your favorite fruits or toppings, allowing for endless variations!

Ingredients

Fresh strawberries

You need 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Start by hulling and slicing them. This means removing the green tops and cutting them into thin pieces. Fresh strawberries add great flavor and sweetness to your bars. They also give a nice color and texture.

Vanilla ice cream

For this recipe, grab 1 pint of vanilla ice cream. Make sure it is slightly softened. This makes it easier to spread over the crust. Vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and a rich taste. It pairs well with the strawberries and crust.

Graham cracker crust ingredients

To make the crust, you will need:

– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Mix these three items together. The graham cracker crumbs give a nice crunch. The melted butter binds everything together. The vanilla extract adds extra flavor. This crust is the base for your ice cream bars.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the strawberries

Start by washing your fresh strawberries. Then, hull and slice them. Place the sliced strawberries in a medium bowl. Add one tablespoon of sugar and one teaspoon of lemon juice. Toss the strawberries gently to coat them. Let them sit for about 15 to 20 minutes. This time helps draw out the juices. The strawberries will become sweet and juicy, perfect for our bars.

Making the graham cracker crust

While the strawberries sit, prepare the graham cracker crust. In a separate bowl, mix one cup of graham cracker crumbs with half a cup of melted unsalted butter. Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Stir until the mixture looks like wet sand. Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish. Make sure it forms an even layer for a sturdy base.

Assembling and freezing the bars

Now it’s time to assemble your bars. Spread one pint of slightly softened vanilla ice cream over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Next, spoon the macerated strawberries over the ice cream. Spread them out so every bite has strawberry goodness. Optionally, sprinkle some more graham cracker crumbs on top for added crunch. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Let the bars freeze for at least four hours or until they are completely firm. Once frozen, lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares or rectangles. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a mint leaf on top for a lovely touch.

Tips & Tricks

Achieving the perfect crust

To make the best crust, use fresh graham cracker crumbs. I suggest crushing the crackers by hand for a coarser texture. This adds a nice bite to each bar. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and vanilla extract. It should feel like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the dish. Make sure it’s even. This helps the crust hold together when you cut the bars.

How to cut and serve the bars

To cut the bars, first, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This makes cutting easier. Use a sharp knife for clean edges. Wipe the knife between cuts to keep it clean. You can serve the bars straight from the freezer too. Just add a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh mint leaf on top. It makes for a pretty presentation!

Suggestions for flavor variations

Feel free to get creative with flavors! You can swap strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or peaches. For a twist, try adding a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some cookie dough bites or chocolate chips. These changes add fun and surprise to each bite.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. They will enhance the overall taste of your ice cream bars.
  2. Chill Your Bowl: Before mixing the ice cream, chill your mixing bowl in the freezer for a few minutes. This helps keep the ice cream from melting too quickly while you spread it.
  3. Customize Your Crust: Feel free to experiment with different types of crumbs for the crust, such as chocolate or vanilla wafers, to add a unique twist to your ice cream bars.
  4. Let Them Set: For optimal texture, ensure your bars freeze for the full 4 hours. If you can wait longer, overnight is even better for a firmer consistency.

Variations

Dairy-free options

You can easily make dairy-free strawberry shortcake ice cream bars. Use coconut milk ice cream instead of vanilla. This adds a nice twist and keeps it creamy. You can also use almond milk or cashew milk ice cream. Both options taste great and are easy to find in stores.

Alternative fruit fillings

While strawberries are delicious, you can switch things up. Try blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a fun twist. Just like with strawberries, mix them with sugar and lemon juice. This will give you a sweet filling that pairs well with the crust and ice cream. You can even combine different fruits for a colorful treat.

Different ice cream flavors

Vanilla ice cream is classic, but feel free to explore! Use strawberry ice cream for a stronger berry flavor. Chocolate ice cream adds a rich taste and pairs well with all fruits. You can even try lemon or mint ice cream for a fresh burst. The key is to choose flavors that will complement your fruit choice.

Storage Info

How to store leftover bars

To store leftover strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, place them in an airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. This keeps the bars fresh and easy to grab.

Freezing tips for freshness

For best freshness, wrap each bar in plastic wrap before storing. This protects them from freezer burn. Ensure your freezer is set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower. This helps maintain the ice cream’s creamy texture.

Shelf life and serving suggestions

These bars can last up to two weeks in the freezer. If you want to serve them later, remove them from the freezer and let them sit for a few minutes. This makes cutting easier. Serve with whipped cream and mint for a fun touch!

FAQs

Can I make these bars ahead of time?

Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. In fact, they taste better after freezing overnight. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. You can store them in the freezer for up to two weeks. Just keep them covered with plastic wrap. This keeps them fresh and prevents freezer burn.

What other ingredients could I add?

You can add many fun ingredients to these bars. Try using crushed nuts for crunch. Chopped chocolate can add a sweet touch. You might also want to mix in some other fruits. Blueberries or raspberries work well with strawberries. Get creative and make it your own!

Where can I buy pre-made strawberry shortcake ice cream bars?

You can find pre-made strawberry shortcake ice cream bars at most grocery stores. Check in the ice cream section. Look for brands that focus on natural ingredients. Local ice cream shops may also have their own version. These bars are a great option if you want a quick treat.

You learned how to make delicious strawberry shortcake ice cream bars from fresh ingredients. We covered how to prepare strawberries, make the perfect graham cracker crust, and assemble the bars. I shared tips for cutting and serving, plus ideas for flavors and options. You can store leftovers well to keep them fresh. This treat is easy to customize and enjoy anytime. Now, grab your ingredients and start making these tasty bars toda

You need 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Start by hulling and slicing them. This means removing the green tops and cutting them into thin pieces. Fresh strawberries add great flavor and sweetness to your bars. They also give a nice color and texture. For this recipe, grab 1 pint of vanilla ice cream. Make sure it is slightly softened. This makes it easier to spread over the crust. Vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and a rich taste. It pairs well with the strawberries and crust. To make the crust, you will need: - 1 cup graham cracker crumbs - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Mix these three items together. The graham cracker crumbs give a nice crunch. The melted butter binds everything together. The vanilla extract adds extra flavor. This crust is the base for your ice cream bars. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by washing your fresh strawberries. Then, hull and slice them. Place the sliced strawberries in a medium bowl. Add one tablespoon of sugar and one teaspoon of lemon juice. Toss the strawberries gently to coat them. Let them sit for about 15 to 20 minutes. This time helps draw out the juices. The strawberries will become sweet and juicy, perfect for our bars. While the strawberries sit, prepare the graham cracker crust. In a separate bowl, mix one cup of graham cracker crumbs with half a cup of melted unsalted butter. Add one teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavor. Stir until the mixture looks like wet sand. Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the dish. Make sure it forms an even layer for a sturdy base. Now it’s time to assemble your bars. Spread one pint of slightly softened vanilla ice cream over the graham cracker crust. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly. Next, spoon the macerated strawberries over the ice cream. Spread them out so every bite has strawberry goodness. Optionally, sprinkle some more graham cracker crumbs on top for added crunch. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and place it in the freezer. Let the bars freeze for at least four hours or until they are completely firm. Once frozen, lift the bars out using the parchment paper. Cut them into squares or rectangles. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a mint leaf on top for a lovely touch. To make the best crust, use fresh graham cracker crumbs. I suggest crushing the crackers by hand for a coarser texture. This adds a nice bite to each bar. Mix the crumbs with melted butter and vanilla extract. It should feel like wet sand. Press the mixture firmly into the dish. Make sure it’s even. This helps the crust hold together when you cut the bars. To cut the bars, first, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes. This makes cutting easier. Use a sharp knife for clean edges. Wipe the knife between cuts to keep it clean. You can serve the bars straight from the freezer too. Just add a dollop of whipped cream and a fresh mint leaf on top. It makes for a pretty presentation! Feel free to get creative with flavors! You can swap strawberries for other fruits like raspberries or peaches. For a twist, try adding a splash of almond extract instead of vanilla. If you're feeling adventurous, mix in some cookie dough bites or chocolate chips. These changes add fun and surprise to each bite. Pro Tips Use Fresh Strawberries: For the best flavor and texture, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. They will enhance the overall taste of your ice cream bars. Chill Your Bowl: Before mixing the ice cream, chill your mixing bowl in the freezer for a few minutes. This helps keep the ice cream from melting too quickly while you spread it. Customize Your Crust: Feel free to experiment with different types of crumbs for the crust, such as chocolate or vanilla wafers, to add a unique twist to your ice cream bars. Let Them Set: For optimal texture, ensure your bars freeze for the full 4 hours. If you can wait longer, overnight is even better for a firmer consistency. {{image_2}} You can easily make dairy-free strawberry shortcake ice cream bars. Use coconut milk ice cream instead of vanilla. This adds a nice twist and keeps it creamy. You can also use almond milk or cashew milk ice cream. Both options taste great and are easy to find in stores. While strawberries are delicious, you can switch things up. Try blueberries, raspberries, or peaches for a fun twist. Just like with strawberries, mix them with sugar and lemon juice. This will give you a sweet filling that pairs well with the crust and ice cream. You can even combine different fruits for a colorful treat. Vanilla ice cream is classic, but feel free to explore! Use strawberry ice cream for a stronger berry flavor. Chocolate ice cream adds a rich taste and pairs well with all fruits. You can even try lemon or mint ice cream for a fresh burst. The key is to choose flavors that will complement your fruit choice. To store leftover strawberry shortcake ice cream bars, place them in an airtight container. Use parchment paper between layers to avoid sticking. This keeps the bars fresh and easy to grab. For best freshness, wrap each bar in plastic wrap before storing. This protects them from freezer burn. Ensure your freezer is set to 0°F (-18°C) or lower. This helps maintain the ice cream's creamy texture. These bars can last up to two weeks in the freezer. If you want to serve them later, remove them from the freezer and let them sit for a few minutes. This makes cutting easier. Serve with whipped cream and mint for a fun touch! Yes, you can make these bars ahead of time. In fact, they taste better after freezing overnight. This allows the flavors to blend nicely. You can store them in the freezer for up to two weeks. Just keep them covered with plastic wrap. This keeps them fresh and prevents freezer burn. You can add many fun ingredients to these bars. Try using crushed nuts for crunch. Chopped chocolate can add a sweet touch. You might also want to mix in some other fruits. Blueberries or raspberries work well with strawberries. Get creative and make it your own! You can find pre-made strawberry shortcake ice cream bars at most grocery stores. Check in the ice cream section. Look for brands that focus on natural ingredients. Local ice cream shops may also have their own version. These bars are a great option if you want a quick treat. You learned how to make delicious strawberry shortcake ice cream bars from fresh ingredients. We covered how to prepare strawberries, make the perfect graham cracker crust, and assemble the bars. I shared tips for cutting and serving, plus ideas for flavors and options. You can store leftovers well to keep them fresh. This treat is easy to customize and enjoy anytime. Now, grab your ingredients and start making these tasty bars today!

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

Delicious ice cream bars layered with fresh strawberries and a graham cracker crust.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 9
Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 pint vanilla ice cream (slightly softened)
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 2 unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 4 cup whipped cream (for garnish)
  • 1 leaves fresh mint leaves (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • In a medium bowl, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Toss well and let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes to macerate, releasing the juices.
  • While the strawberries are macerating, prepare the crust. In a separate bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and vanilla extract until the mixture resembles wet sand.
  • Line an 8x8-inch baking dish with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. Press the graham cracker mixture firmly into the bottom of the lined dish to form an even layer.
  • Spread the softened vanilla ice cream over the graham cracker crust, smoothing it out with a spatula.
  • Spoon the macerated strawberries over the ice cream, spreading them out evenly.
  • Optionally, sprinkle some additional graham cracker crumbs on top for added texture.
  • Cover the dish with plastic wrap and freeze for at least 4 hours or until completely firm.
  • Once frozen, remove the bars from the dish using the parchment overhang and cut them into squares or rectangles.
  • Serve topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a mint leaf for garnish.

Notes

Allow ample time for freezing to ensure bars are firm.
Keyword bars, dessert, ice cream, strawberry

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