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4th of July ice cream cake

No-Bake 4th of July Ice Cream Cake

The beauty of this 4th of July ice cream cake is that it looks impressive, but it’s surprisingly simple to put together.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Refrigerate 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 16 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Equipment

  • 9-inch springform pan
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Hand mixer or stand mixer
  • Spatula or offset spatula
  • Food processor or zip-top bag + rolling pin
  • Parchment paper
  • Freezer space

Ingredients
  

For the Ice Cream Cake Layers

  • 1.5 quarts vanilla ice cream softened
  • 1.5 quarts strawberry or raspberry ice cream softened
  • 1.5 quarts blueberry or blue raspberry ice cream softened
  • 1 package 14 oz Oreo cookies or chocolate sandwich cookies (crushed)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted

For the Topping & Decorations

  • 2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Fresh strawberries and blueberries for garnish
  • Red white, and blue sprinkles

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Cookie Crust
  • Crush the cookies: Add your Oreo cookies to a food processor and pulse until finely ground. No processor? Place them in a zip-top bag and crush with a rolling pin.
  • Mix with melted butter: In a bowl, stir together the crushed cookies and melted butter until the texture is like wet sand.
  • Press into pan: Line the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper (optional, but helps with serving), then press the cookie mixture firmly into an even layer.
  • Freeze to set: Pop the crust into the freezer for at least 15 minutes while you prep your ice cream layers.
  • Pro Tip: Use the bottom of a measuring cup to press the crust down evenly—it helps pack it tightly so it holds together well.
  • Step 2: Add the First Ice Cream Layer (Strawberry or Raspberry)
  • Soften the ice cream: Let the strawberry ice cream sit out for 10–15 minutes until it’s soft and spreadable.
  • Spread evenly: Scoop the softened ice cream over the chilled crust and gently spread it into an even layer using a spatula or offset spatula.
  • Freeze to firm up: Return the pan to the freezer for about 30–40 minutes, or until the layer is firm before adding the next one.
  • Pro Tip: Don’t rush the freezing between layers—if one layer is too soft, it’ll blend into the next instead of staying distinct.
  • Step 3: Add the Vanilla Ice Cream Layer
  • Soften again: Take your vanilla ice cream out to soften while the first layer chills.
  • Layer and smooth: Once soft, scoop and spread over the frozen strawberry layer. Use the spatula to smooth it out as evenly as possible.
  • Freeze again: Place the cake back in the freezer for another 30–40 minutes, or until set.
  • Step 4: Add the Blue Ice Cream Layer
  • Repeat the process: Let your blue ice cream (blueberry or blue raspberry) soften, then add it as the final layer.
  • Smooth the top: Use a clean spatula to even out the top—this will be the “canvas” for your toppings.
  • Final freeze: Freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight for the entire cake to fully set and hold its shape when sliced.
  • Pro Tip: If you plan to serve the next day, cover the top with plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.
  • Step 5: Make the Whipped Cream Topping
  • Chill your tools: For best results, chill your mixing bowl and beaters in the freezer for 10–15 minutes before whipping.
  • Whip the cream: Add the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to the bowl. Beat on medium-high until soft peaks form.
  • Frost the cake: Once the cake is fully frozen, remove from the springform pan and spread the whipped cream over the top (and sides, if desired).
  • Pro Tip: Soft peaks mean the cream holds shape but still droops slightly—stop whipping at this stage to avoid overmixing.
  • Step 6: Decorate and Serve
  • Add toppings: Garnish with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and a generous sprinkle of red, white, and blue sprinkles.
  • Slice and serve: Use a sharp knife dipped in warm water (and wiped dry) to slice cleanly. Serve immediately!
  • Pro Tip: If the cake is too hard to slice right away, let it sit at room temperature for 5–10 minutes before cutting.

Notes

Nutritional Value Per Serving:

  • Calories: 300–400 kcal
  • Fat: 15–25g
  • Sugar: 25–35g
  • Protein: 3–5g
 
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Nutrition Disclaimer:
The nutritional information provided on this website is an estimate only and is intended for general guidance. We cannot guarantee its accuracy and recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition advice.
Keyword 4th of july food, 4th of july ice cream cake, ice cream cake