Cake is good. Ice cream is even better. Together, they’re one of summer’s greatest desserts. This easy no-bake berry ice cream cake layers a fudgy brownie base with vanilla and strawberry ice cream before being topped with frozen berries for an effortlessly elegant finish.

Easy Berry Ice Cream Cake

This easy no-bake berry ice cream cake features a rich brownie base layered with vanilla and strawberry ice cream, fresh berries and a frosty berry topping.

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Ingredients

Brownie Base

1 prepared 8-inch brownie or individual brownie bites store-bought or homemade

Ice Cream Filling

1 L vanilla ice cream softened
1 L strawberry ice cream softened
1 cup sliced fresh strawberries

Topping

1 cup frozen mixed berries
Fresh mint optional

Instructions

Line a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan with two overlapping sheets of plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang to lift out the cake later.
Trim the brownie to fit the bottom of the loaf pan. Press firmly into place.
Spread softened vanilla ice cream evenly over brownie. Freeze until firm, about 2 hours.
Spread softened strawberry ice cream over vanilla layer. Scatter sliced strawberries throughout the layer.
Freeze until completely firm, at least 3 hours or overnight.
Lift cake from pan using plastic wrap. Top with frozen mixed berries.
Allow cake to stand 10–15 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Make Ahead

Freeze up to one week before serving.

Variation

Swap strawberry ice cream for raspberry, cherry or mixed berry.

Keyword berry ice cream cake, easy ice cream cake, easy summer dessert, no-bake dessert, strawberry ice cream cake

How to Freeze Berries for Desserts

Frozen berries create a beautiful frosted finish that’s perfect for ice cream cakes, pavlovas and summer desserts. The trick is to freeze them individually first so they don’t clump together.

Gently rinse strawberries, raspberries, blueberries or currants under cold water.
Pat completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture creates ice crystals.
Arrange the berries in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet or plate, making sure they aren’t touching.
Freeze for 2 to 3 hours, or until firm.
Transfer the frozen berries to a freezer-safe container or resealable freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 6 months.

Tips for the Best Frozen Berries

Freeze berries when they’re perfectly ripe for the best flavour.
Small berries like raspberries, blueberries and currants freeze especially well.
Slice large strawberries before freezing if you’ll be using them in desserts.
Add frozen berries just before serving to keep their frosted appearance.

How to Make an Easy Ice Cream Cake in 4 Quick Steps

Start with a brownie base

Go for a no-fuss packaged grocery store brownie or use your favourite brownie recipe. Line a loaf pan with two large overlapping sheets of plastic wrap, leaving a 2-inch overhang. Measure and cut the brownie base, then press it into the pan.

Build the layers

Choose two flavours of ice cream – say, vanilla and strawberry. Spread softened vanilla on base; fold in plastic wrap, press and freeze for 2 hours. Unwrap and evenly spread softened strawberry ice cream and sliced strawberries; rewrap and freeze until set, 2 to 4 hours.

Freeze the berries

Moody, refreshing and frosty, frozen berries add a restaurant-quality finishing touch. To freeze, place dried berries on a small tray or plate and freeze. Just before serving, garnish the top of the cake with berries.

Slice like a pro

For a theatrical entrance and that sexy over-the-shoulder ice cream drop, let the cake stand at room temperature until slightly softened – we’re talking 10 to 15 minutes. To cut, use a chef’s knife that’s been dipped in hot water and dried, and repeat between each slice.