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Easy No-Bake Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake for Two

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A quick and easy no-bake dessert for two, featuring layers of vanilla wafers, macerated strawberries, and a creamy mascarpone filling. Perfect for date night or a midnight craving.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 2 cups sliced)
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup mascarpone cheese
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream, cold
  • 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • About 30 vanilla wafers (recommend Nilla Wafers)
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons strawberry jam
  • Optional garnish: fresh mint leaves, extra sliced strawberries, powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Macerate the strawberries: In a medium bowl, combine sliced strawberries, 2 tablespoons sugar, and 1 teaspoon lemon juice. Stir gently and let sit for 15-20 minutes until glossy and syrupy.
  2. Make the cream filling: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and mascarpone until smooth and fluffy (about 2 minutes). Add powdered sugar and vanilla, beat until combined. In a separate cold bowl, whip heavy cream to stiff peaks. Gently fold whipped cream into cream cheese mixture until light and airy.
  3. Prepare the pan: Line a small loaf pan (8.5×4.5 inches) with plastic wrap, leaving overhang on all sides.
  4. Layer the cake: Spread a thin layer of cream mixture (about 2 tablespoons) on the bottom. Arrange a single layer of vanilla wafers on top, breaking as needed. Spread about 1/3 of remaining cream over cookies. Spoon about 1/3 of macerated strawberries (with some juice) over cream. Repeat layers: cookies, cream, strawberries, cookies, cream, strawberries. End with a final layer of cream. If using strawberry jam, drizzle a thin layer over the first cream layer.
  5. Chill: Cover pan with overhanging plastic wrap, pressing gently against the surface. Refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
  6. Unmold and serve: Unfold plastic wrap, place a serving plate upside down over pan, flip over. Lift pan away and peel off plastic wrap. Garnish with mint, extra strawberries, and powdered sugar. Slice and serve cold.

Notes

For clean slices, dip a sharp knife in hot water and wipe dry between cuts. Let the cake chill overnight for best texture. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain before macerating.

Nutrition

Keywords: no-bake, strawberry shortcake, icebox cake, dessert for two, easy dessert, vanilla wafers, mascarpone

Find it online: https://grubella.com/easy-no-bake-strawberry-shortcake-icebox-cake-for-two/