1-First Step: Whip the cream. Start by adding the cold heavy cream, confectioners’ sugar, vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste, and almond extract to a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high speed until medium peaks form. The cream should look thick, soft, and billowy, but still smooth enough to spread easily.

2-Second Step: Prep the baking pan. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream across the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking pan. This small step helps the graham crackers stay in place. It also gives the bottom layer a creamy start, which helps the whole dessert slice more neatly later.

3-Third Step: Add the first cracker layer. Place 1 layer of full-sheet graham crackers over the whipped cream. Break pieces as needed so the pan is covered. Do your best to fit the crackers snugly, since small gaps are fine and will soften as the cake chills.

4-Fourth Step: Add the first cream and strawberry layer. Spoon about 2 cups of whipped cream over the crackers and spread it into an even layer. Then add the sliced strawberries. Spread the fruit evenly so each slice later gets a little berry in every bite.

5-Fifth Step: Repeat with another cracker layer. Lay down another layer of graham crackers over the strawberries. Gently press them into the cream so they sit level. This middle layer helps create the classic stacked look that makes a berry icebox cake so appealing.

6-Sixth Step: Add the blueberry layer. Spread another 2 cups of whipped cream over the second cracker layer. Top it with the blueberries and distribute them evenly. The blueberries add a juicy pop and a nice color contrast against the white cream.

7-Seventh Step: Finish the top layer. Add the final layer of graham crackers, then spread the remaining whipped cream over the top. Smooth it into an even finish, or create soft swirls with the back of a spoon for a pretty look.

8-Final Step: Chill and garnish. Cover the pan and refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours. For the best texture, let it chill a little longer if you have time. Before serving, garnish with additional berries.