Why You’ll Love Making Strawberry Ice Cream Bars at Home
There’s something magical about biting into a strawberry ice cream bar on a hot summer day. The creamy sweetness of the strawberry filling, wrapped in a delicate crunch, just makes life better. I remember the first time I tried making these bars at home—it was a hit with my kids and their friends. They couldn’t believe it wasn’t store-bought! What’s even better? You can customize them to your heart’s content. Whether you’re craving that nostalgic strawberry shortcake ice cream sandwich vibe or want to experiment with flavors like chocolate eclair ice cream bar, this recipe has got you covered.
A Little History Behind These Sweet Treats
The strawberry shortcake ice cream bar has been around for decades, capturing hearts with its simple yet irresistible charm. It all started as an homage to the classic strawberry shortcake dessert—think juicy strawberries, fluffy cake, and whipped cream. Over time, ice cream companies like Blue Bunny and Good Humor turned it into frozen perfection. If you’ve ever wondered “What’s on the outside of a strawberry shortcake ice cream?”—it’s usually a layer of crumbly, sweet shortbread coating. Growing up, my family would search high and low for the elusive strawberry shortcake ice cream near me, but now I skip the hunt and make my own version right at home.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This homemade strawberry ice cream bar is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to whip up. No fancy equipment needed—just a few pantry staples and some love. Plus, there’s no mystery about what goes into it. Unlike store-bought options, you control the ingredients, so you know exactly what you’re eating. And let’s not forget how fun it is to create memories in the kitchen with loved ones. Whether you’re aiming for a strawberry scooter crunch bar texture or something smoother, this recipe lets you play chef.
Perfect Occasions for These Bars
These bars are perfect for picnics, backyard BBQs, or lazy afternoons by the pool. Hosting a birthday party? Serve these alongside a strawberry ice cream bar cake for a dessert spread that’ll wow everyone. Even cozy movie nights become extra special when you hand out homemade treats. Trust me, once you start sharing these goodies, people will beg you for seconds (and maybe even the recipe).
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Substitution Options
- Fresh strawberries can be swapped with frozen ones if needed.
- Use almond or coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free twist.
- If you don’t have graham crackers, crushed cookies like digestive biscuits work too.
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberry Filling
In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens slightly and the berries break down, about 8–10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once done, let it cool completely. This step creates a vibrant red filling bursting with natural sweetness. Pro tip: Taste the mixture while cooking—you might need a pinch more sugar depending on your berries’ ripeness.
Step 2: Whip Up the Ice Cream Base
In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in the sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract. Be careful not to deflate the whipped cream. The result should be light and airy, almost cloud-like. This base is the foundation of your strawberry shortcake ice cream pint-inspired creation.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
Spread half of the whipped cream mixture into a lined loaf pan. Spoon the cooled strawberry filling evenly over the top, then cover with the remaining whipped cream. Use a spatula to smooth everything out. At this point, you’ll have gorgeous pink swirls peeking through the white layers—a feast for the eyes before it even hits the freezer!
Step 4: Make the Crumb Coating
In a small bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and powdered sugar. Press this mixture firmly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze both the loaf pan and the crumb mixture for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This ensures everything sets properly. Chef’s tip: For a richer flavor, toast the graham cracker crumbs lightly before mixing them with butter.
Step 5: Cut and Coat the Bars
Once set, remove the ice cream block from the loaf pan and slice it into rectangular bars. Dip each bar into the crumb coating, pressing gently to ensure it sticks. Place the coated bars back in the freezer for another hour to firm up. Voilà—you’ve made your very own strawberry ice cream bar chocolate-free delight!
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Freezing Time: 5+ hours
- Total Time: Approximately 6 hours
Chef’s Secret
To enhance the flavor, soak the strawberries in a splash of balsamic vinegar before cooking them down. Sounds weird, I know, but trust me—it adds a subtle depth that takes these bars to the next level.
Extra Info
Did you know that Good Humor bars were one of the first brands to popularize ice cream novelties in America? Their iconic strawberry shortcake ice cream bar remains a favorite among fans of retro desserts. While some flavors, like the chocolate eclair ice cream bar, have been discontinued, recipes like this keep the nostalgia alive.
Necessary Equipment
- Loaf pan
- Hand mixer or stand mixer
- Saucepan
- Parchment paper
- Sharp knife for slicing
Storage Tips
For best results, store your strawberry ice cream bars in an airtight container in the freezer. Layer them between sheets of wax paper to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh for up to two weeks, though they rarely last that long in my house!
If you’re planning to transport them, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a cooler with ice packs. This keeps them intact and minimizes melting.
Finally, label your container with the date. It’s easy to lose track of leftovers in a crowded freezer, and nothing ruins a snack quite like finding freezer-burned treats.
Tips and Advice
- Use room-temperature ingredients for easier mixing.
- Chill your bowls and beaters before whipping cream—it helps stabilize the texture.
- Experiment with different coatings, like crushed pretzels or nuts, for variety.
Presentation Ideas
- Serve the bars on a platter garnished with fresh mint leaves and halved strawberries.
- Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the tops for a decadent touch.
- Create mini versions by cutting smaller squares—they’re great for parties.
Healthier Alternatives
Looking for ways to lighten up this treat? Here are six ideas:
- Low-Sugar Option: Replace granulated sugar with a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit.
- Dairy-Free Delight: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based condensed milk.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: Use gluten-free graham crackers or almond flour for the coating.
- Protein-Packed Bars: Add a scoop of unflavored protein powder to the ice cream base.
- Fruit-Focused Twist: Incorporate other fruits like raspberries or mangoes alongside strawberries.
- No-Bake Bliss: Skip cooking the berries entirely and blend them raw for a fresher taste.
Mistake 1: Overmixing the Whipped Cream
Overmixing turns your fluffy whipped cream into buttery mush. To avoid this, stop beating as soon as stiff peaks form. A quick visual check ensures you haven’t gone too far. Tip: Chill your bowl beforehand to help stabilize the cream.
Mistake 2: Skipping the Cooling Step
Rushing the process by skipping the cooling step can ruin the texture. Patience pays off here—letting the strawberry filling cool prevents melting the ice cream base. Pro tip: Speed things up by spreading the filling on a plate to cool faster.
Mistake 3: Cutting Before Fully Freezing
If you cut the bars too soon, they’ll fall apart. Always freeze the assembled loaf until rock solid. This guarantees clean slices and happy eaters. Keep your knife warm by running it under hot water for smoother cuts.
FAQ
What Are Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars Made Of?
These bars typically consist of a creamy strawberry-flavored ice cream center coated in a crumbly, sweet shortbread shell. My homemade version uses real strawberries, heavy cream, and graham cracker crumbs for an authentic taste.
What Is the Best Tasting Strawberry Ice Cream?
The best tasting strawberry ice cream highlights the natural sweetness of ripe berries without overpowering them with artificial flavors. Using fresh, seasonal strawberries always makes a difference.
What Are Some Discontinued Good Humor Bars?
Some beloved Good Humor bars, like the chocolate eclair ice cream bar, have sadly been discontinued. But fear not—homemade recipes let you recreate those lost favorites.
What’s on the Outside of a Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream?
Traditionally, the exterior features a crunchy layer of graham cracker crumbs mixed with butter and sugar. It adds a satisfying contrast to the soft, creamy interior.
How Do I Store These Bars Long-Term?
Wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay fresh for several months this way.
Can I Use Frozen Strawberries?
Absolutely! Just thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture, which could affect the texture of your filling.
Do I Need Special Tools for This Recipe?
Nope! All you need is a basic loaf pan, a mixer, and some patience. Simple tools yield amazing results.
Why Does My Ice Cream Taste Grainy?
Graininess often happens if the sugar isn’t fully dissolved. Warm the sugar slightly with the strawberries to ensure it blends seamlessly.
Can I Add Chocolate to These Bars?
Of course! Drizzle melted chocolate over the finished bars or dip them halfway for a chocolaty twist.
Are These Bars Kid-Friendly?
Definitely! Kids love helping assemble and decorate these bars, making them a fun family activity.
Final Thoughts
Making your own strawberry ice cream bar is a rewarding experience that brings joy to everyone who tries it. From the vibrant berry filling to the crunchy outer layer, every bite is pure bliss. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Strawberry Ice Cream Bar
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine sliced strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until thickened, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let cool completely.
- In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold in sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
- Spread half of the whipped cream mixture into a lined loaf pan. Spoon cooled strawberry filling over the top, then cover with remaining whipped cream. Smooth out with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, melted butter, and powdered sugar. Press firmly onto a baking sheet lined with parchment. Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Once set, remove ice cream block from the loaf pan and slice into rectangular bars. Dip each bar into crumb coating and place back in the freezer for another hour.