
Decadent Strawberry Chocolate Fantasy Ice Cream Cake is all about celebration and pure joy in every bite. This stunning dessert layers moist chocolate cake with creamy chocolate and vanilla ice creams, fresh strawberries, and rich chocolate sauce. If you are after a showstopping treat for birthdays or special gatherings, this cake always steals the spotlight and tastes as incredible as it looks.
The first time I made this was for my best friend’s graduation and we all devoured it before dinner was even served. Now my family requests it every July as our go to summer celebration cake.
Ingredients
- Chocolate cake mix: Choose a good quality moist mix and follow the directions for best results
- Fresh strawberries: Select ripe but firm berries for the brightest flavor and color
- Chocolate chips: Use semi sweet or dark for a more intense chocolate layer
- Vanilla ice cream: Pick high quality ice cream that is creamy not icy as it will blend best
- Chocolate ice cream: Balances out the flavors and keeps the cake extra chocolatey
- Powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and a fluffier ice cream layer when mixed in
- Hot fudge sauce: Pick a thick and rich brand or make your own for best results
- Whipped cream: Go for homemade whipped cream or a high fat canned variety for the prettiest finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Bake the Chocolate Cakes:
- Prepare your cake pans by greasing and flouring them carefully. Make the chocolate cake batter according to the box instructions and evenly divide the batter. Bake the cakes until a toothpick comes out clean and let them cool completely. A cool base is key for the ice cream layers to set properly.
- Melt the Chocolate Chips:
- Microwave the chocolate chips in a glass bowl in short increments and keep stirring so the chocolate melts without burning. Let it cool slightly before building the cake to keep textures smooth.
- Mix the Ice Cream Layers:
- Soften both ice cream flavors until you can easily mix them with a spoon. Stir the vanilla ice cream separately with powdered sugar until it is smooth and slightly whipped. Do the same with chocolate ice cream so both layers spread easily.
- Layer and Assemble:
- Place the first cooled cake on your serving plate. Spread the vanilla ice cream all the way to the edges. Top with half the strawberries and gently press them into the ice cream. Drizzle half your melted chocolate for extra drama.
- Second Cake Layer and Chocolate Ice Cream:
- Lay the second cake round over the first. Spread with your chocolate ice cream till it reaches the edges. Add the rest of your strawberries and finish with another drizzle of melty chocolate.
- Decorate with Whipped Cream:
- Spoon or pipe whipped cream onto the top and use a spatula to swirl for a pretty finish. Pour hot fudge in ribbons across the whipped cream for pure decadent effect.
- Freeze and Serve:
- Set the finished cake in your freezer uncovered until the ice cream firms up usually two hours or overnight. Let it sit at room temperature five to ten minutes before slicing to get clean pieces with neat layers.

Strawberries have always been my favorite part of this cake because they add a burst of freshness against the chocolate. I remember my grandmother letting me pick the ripest berries in her garden just for this recipe.
Storage Tips
Cover any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store slices in airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to one week. To avoid freezer burn always press plastic directly onto the exposed cut edges.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to use other berries such as raspberries or blackberries if strawberries are out of season. For the cake layer you can swap in homemade chocolate cake if you want an even richer texture. Gluten free chocolate cake mix works well as a direct swap for anyone with allergies.
Serving Suggestions
Dress up each slice with extra fresh sliced strawberries or a scoop of additional ice cream on the side. Add some chocolate shavings or sprinkles just before serving for special occasions. This cake stands alone but also works well when paired with hot coffee or a glass of cold milk.
A Little History
Ice cream cakes became popular party treats in the twentieth century thanks to their no fuss assembly and crowd pleasing appeal. This strawberry chocolate version is inspired by the classic combinations found in European patisserie window displays and modern American diners alike.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chocolate cake is best for this treat?
A moist boxed chocolate cake mix is ideal, providing structure to support the layered ice cream and toppings.
- → Can I use different flavors of ice cream?
Absolutely; experiment with other flavors like strawberry or cookies and cream to customize the dessert.
- → How can I achieve clean slices when serving?
Allow the cake to freeze thoroughly, then dip a sharp knife in hot water between slices for clean portions.
- → Do I need to thaw the ice cream before layering?
Let the ice cream soften at room temperature, making it easier to spread smoothly over the cake layers.
- → How long should the dessert be frozen before serving?
Freeze for at least 2 hours to set the layers, but longer chilling ensures firmer, easier-to-serve portions.