Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

A refreshing treat for hot summer days, Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars combine creamy strawberry ice cream with a crunchy cookie crust. This simple yet delightful dessert fits perfectly for picnics, barbecues, or any gathering where you want to impress your friends and family. With just four ingredients, these bars are not only easy to make but also burst with the flavors of sweet strawberries.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 10 minutes, you can whip up this delicious dessert and pop it in the freezer.
• Simple Ingredients: Using only four common ingredients means you can easily recreate this treat anytime.
• Nostalgic Flavor: The combination of crispy cookies and creamy strawberry ice cream is a classic that everyone loves.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfectly portioned into bars, they are great for parties or as a cool after-school snack.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Easy enough for kids to help out in the kitchen, making it a fun family activity.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars, you’ll need a few essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan
• Parchment paper or aluminum foil
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool quickly crushes cookies and mixes your ingredients without the need for manual labor.
• Square pan: A square pan helps maintain even freezing and makes cutting uniform bars easier.

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Ingredients

A perfectly nostalgic summer dessert made with only 4 ingredients!

For the Crust

• 35 Golden Oreo cookies
• 5 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ cup freeze dried strawberries

For the Filling

• 1 quart strawberry ice cream (softened)

How to Make Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan

1. Line a 8×8 or 9×9 inch square pan with foil or parchment paper. Ensure it fits snugly to make removing the bars easier later.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust

1. Place the Golden Oreo cookies in a food processor and pulse until they turn into fine crumbs.
2. Add the freeze dried strawberries and pulse a few times to break them up slightly.
3. Pour in the melted unsalted butter, pulsing until the mixture is well combined and moistened.

Step 3: Assemble the Bars

1. Firmly press half of the cookie mixture into the bottom of the lined pan to create an even crust layer.
2. Spread the softened strawberry ice cream evenly over the pressed crust.
3. Sprinkle the remaining cookie mixture over the top of the ice cream layer.

Step 4: Freeze and Serve

1. Cover the pan securely and freeze for at least 2 hours or until solid.
2. Once frozen, slice into either 9 or 12 bars depending on your preference, then serve immediately.

Enjoy this delightful treat that captures summer’s essence with every bite!

How to Serve Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars are a delightful treat perfect for any gathering. Here are some creative serving ideas to enhance your dessert experience.

With Fresh Berries

• Serve the bars with a side of fresh strawberries or blueberries for added texture and flavor. This boosts the berry goodness and makes for a colorful presentation.

Drizzled with Chocolate Sauce

• Add a drizzle of chocolate sauce over each bar just before serving. The rich chocolate complements the sweetness of the strawberry ice cream beautifully.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• A dollop of whipped cream on top adds an extra creamy layer to your dessert. This classic pairing elevates the overall indulgence.

Accompanied by Coconut Flakes

• Sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes on top or around the bars. This adds a tropical twist and crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the soft ice cream.

Served in Ice Cream Bowls

• Cut the bars into smaller pieces and serve them in bowls, topped with additional freeze-dried strawberries. This makes for a fun, shareable dessert option.

How to Perfect Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

To ensure your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars turn out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Use softened ice cream: Allow the strawberry ice cream to soften at room temperature before spreading it over the crust. This helps achieve an even layer without breaking the crust.
• Press firmly: When pressing down the cookie mixture into the pan, make sure to press it firmly. This helps form a sturdy base that holds up well when sliced.
• Chill before slicing: After freezing, let the bars sit at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing. This makes cutting easier and results in cleaner edges.
• Store properly: If you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and keep them in the freezer to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

Pairing side dishes with your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some great options:

1. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances the richness of the ice cream bars perfectly.
2. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness of lemon sorbet provides a nice contrast to the sweet ice cream bars, making it an excellent palate cleanser.
3. Granola Cups: Crunchy granola cups filled with yogurt offer a healthy side that complements the sweetness while adding texture.
4. Peach Crisp: A warm peach crisp served alongside cold ice cream bars creates a delightful contrast in temperatures and flavors.
5. Pineapple Salsa: Fresh pineapple salsa adds a zesty kick that pairs well with strawberries, bringing bright flavors to your dessert table.
6. Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: Salty, sweet chocolate-covered pretzels make for a fun snack alongside your ice cream bars, adding crunch and flavor variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars perfect, be aware of these common mistakes.

• Skipping the foil or parchment paper: Not lining your pan can lead to a sticky mess. Always line the pan to ensure easy removal.
• Overmixing the cookie crust: Pulverizing too much can turn your crust into dust. Mix just enough for a crumbly texture that holds together.
• Not softening the ice cream: Using hard ice cream will make it tough to spread. Let it soften at room temperature for easier application.
• Cutting too soon after freezing: Slicing before they are fully frozen can cause a gooey mess. Ensure they freeze completely for clean cuts.
• Ignoring storage tips: Not covering them properly can lead to freezer burn. Store in an airtight container to keep them fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3 days.

Freezing Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

• Wrap individual bars in plastic wrap or foil.
• Can freeze for up to 2 months without losing quality.

Reheating Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm bars for about 5 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 10-15 seconds on low power for a soft touch.
• Stovetop: Place bars in a skillet over low heat, flipping until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars.

How do I customize my Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars?

You can add different freeze-dried fruits or swap strawberry ice cream for another flavor like vanilla or chocolate.

Can I use regular Oreo cookies instead of Golden Oreos?

Yes, regular Oreos will work well, but they will change the color and flavor slightly.

How long do Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars take to prepare?

The prep time is about 10 minutes, plus an additional 2 hours in the freezer.

What is the best way to slice the bars?

Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water, wiping it between slices for clean cuts.

Can I make these Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars dairy-free?

Yes! Use dairy-free ice cream and vegan butter as alternatives to cater to dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars are a delightful summer treat that’s easy to whip up with just four ingredients. Their versatility allows you to experiment with different flavors and toppings. Try this recipe today, and enjoy a refreshing dessert that brings nostalgia with every bite!