Description
This Quick Icebox Cake Recipe is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring layers of creamy whipped topping, crispy chocolate or plain graham crackers, and optional fresh fruit. Perfect for summer, it requires minimal prep and chills overnight to develop its signature soft texture and rich flavor, making it an easy and impressive treat for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Whipped Cream Mixture
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Cake Layers
- 1 box (9 oz) chocolate graham crackers or plain graham crackers
- 1 1/2 cups sliced strawberries or bananas (optional)
Topping (Optional)
- Chocolate shavings or crushed cookies
Instructions
- Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, combine the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use a mixer to whip the mixture until stiff peaks form, ensuring the cream is light and fluffy.
- Anchor the First Layer: Spread a thin layer of the whipped cream on the bottom of an 8×8-inch dish. This base layer helps keep the graham crackers in place.
- Add the Graham Crackers: Arrange a layer of graham crackers over the whipped cream, breaking pieces to fit the dish as needed to form an even layer.
- Layer with Cream and Fruit: Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the crackers, then add a layer of sliced strawberries or bananas if using. This adds moisture and flavor to the cake.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering crackers, whipped cream, and fruit until ingredients are used up, finishing with a thick layer of whipped cream on top.
- Refrigerate: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This chilling time allows the graham crackers to soften and flavors to meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, optionally top the cake with chocolate shavings, crushed cookies, or extra fruit as desired for added texture and decoration.
Notes
- This recipe is highly customizable—experiment with different types of cookies or berries.
- Try flavored whipped cream for a unique twist.
- The cake tastes even better the next day after chilling fully, as layers meld together perfectly.
