Decadent Strawberry Chocolate Fantasy Ice Cream Cake is an irresistible dessert that layers moist chocolate cake, velvety ice cream, fresh strawberries, and rich melted chocolate. It’s the ultimate indulgence for birthdays, holidays, or anytime you want to impress with a showstopping sweet treat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This ice cream cake is a celebration in every slice. It combines the textures of tender cake, creamy ice cream, and juicy strawberries with decadent chocolate in every layer. Easy to customize and make ahead, it’s a crowd-pleaser that looks as stunning as it tastes. Perfect for summer gatherings or winter celebrations alike.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
chocolate cake mix (plus ingredients for preparation)
fresh strawberries, sliced
chocolate chips, melted
vanilla ice cream, softened
chocolate ice cream, softened
powdered sugar
hot fudge sauce
whipped cream (for topping)
directions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat the oven according to the directions on the cake mix box.
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Prepare the chocolate cake batter as instructed and divide evenly between the pans.
Bake as directed, then cool completely in the pans before removing.
Step 2: Melt the Chocolate
In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth.
Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Prepare the Ice Cream Layers
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened vanilla ice cream with powdered sugar until smooth.
Repeat in a separate bowl with the softened chocolate ice cream.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Place one cooled cake layer on a serving platter.
Spread the vanilla ice cream over the cake.
Layer with half the sliced strawberries and drizzle with half the melted chocolate.
Step 5: Add the Second Layer
Place the second cake layer on top.
Spread chocolate ice cream evenly over this layer.
Top with remaining strawberries and drizzle with the rest of the melted chocolate.
Step 6: Add Whipped Cream and Fudge
Spread whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake.
Drizzle generously with hot fudge sauce for a luxurious finish.
Step 7: Freeze and Serve
Freeze the assembled cake for at least 2 hours or until firm.
Slice and serve directly from the freezer.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields 12 servings.
Prep time: 30 minutes
Bake time: As per cake mix instructions (about 25–30 minutes)
Assembly and freeze time: 2 hours
Total time: About 3 hours
Variations
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Berry Blend: Use raspberries or blueberries in place of strawberries for a different fruit twist.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped toasted almonds or pecans between layers for texture.
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Triple Chocolate: Use chocolate fudge cake mix and chocolate chunks in the layers for extra richness.
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Mint Chocolate Version: Replace chocolate ice cream with mint chocolate chip and drizzle with mint syrup.
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Caramel Drizzle: Substitute fudge sauce with caramel for a sweet contrast.
storage/reheating
Store leftover cake in the freezer, tightly wrapped or in an airtight container, for up to 1 week.
Slice directly from the freezer when serving. Do not thaw before slicing to preserve structure.
Reheating is not recommended—serve frozen for the intended texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed mix?
Yes, any homemade chocolate cake recipe will work as long as it yields two 9-inch layers.
How do I prevent the ice cream from melting during assembly?
Work quickly and return the cake to the freezer between layers if needed. Use softened, not melted, ice cream.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, it can be assembled up to 2 days in advance and stored in the freezer.
What’s the best way to cut the frozen cake?
Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water for clean slicing.
Can I use a springform pan for layering?
Yes, it helps shape the cake neatly, especially with softer ice cream layers.
Can I substitute the whipped cream with frosting?
You can, but whipped cream complements the cold, creamy textures better than a dense frosting.
What’s the ideal ice cream consistency for spreading?
Soft enough to spread, but not liquid—about 10–15 minutes at room temperature.
Can I skip the powdered sugar in the ice cream?
Yes, but it adds a touch of sweetness and smoothness that enhances the flavor.
Do I need to level the cake layers?
It’s recommended for even stacking, but not essential if the layers are relatively flat.
What if I don’t have hot fudge sauce?
You can melt extra chocolate chips with a splash of cream for a quick fudge topping.
Conclusion
Decadent Strawberry Chocolate Fantasy Ice Cream Cake is a dessert dream come true. With its luscious layers of chocolate cake, creamy ice cream, juicy fruit, and rich chocolate, it’s a showstopping treat that delivers on every level. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this frozen masterpiece is sure to impress and delight.
[tasty-recipe id=”18871″]