Hey y’all! Who doesn’t love a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious? Meet the No-Bake Raspberry Icebox Cake, a sweet treat that melts in your mouth and brightens any occasion with its vibrant flavors. Whether you’re hosting a summer picnic or looking for a cozy treat, this cake fits right in. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This No-Bake Raspberry Icebox Cake
- Quick and Easy: This cake takes just 20 minutes to prepare.
- No Oven Needed: Perfect for hot days when you want to keep the kitchen cool.
- Fresh and Fruity: Bursting with the natural sweetness of raspberries.
- Make-Ahead Delight: Prepare it in advance and let it chill, perfect for busy schedules.
- Customizable: Easy to tweak for different flavored variations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 package (14 oz) of graham crackers
- 3 cups fresh raspberries
- ½ cup raspberry jam
Directions
Prepare the Whipped Cream
In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
Layer the Cake
Spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan. Arrange a layer of graham crackers over the cream, breaking them as needed to fit. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream over the crackers, followed by a layer of raspberry jam and fresh raspberries.
Repeat and Chill
Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream and raspberries on top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight, allowing the graham crackers to soften.
Notes
- Use fresh raspberries for the best flavor, but frozen can work in a pinch. Learn more about using fresh versus frozen fruit.
- If you prefer a sweeter cream, add more powdered sugar to taste.
Variations
- Chocolate Raspberry: Add a layer of chocolate ganache for a rich twist.
- Lemon Raspberry: Add lemon zest to the whipped cream for a citrusy kick.
- Mixed Berry: Combine with blueberries and strawberries for a berry medley.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- 9×13 inch baking pan
Storage Instructions
Store the No-Bake Raspberry Icebox Cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover with plastic wrap or an airtight lid to maintain freshness.
Suggested Pairings
Serve your icebox cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a glass of chilled prosecco for a celebratory touch.
Pro Tips
- For the best results, whip your cream just before assembling the cake. Here’s a guide on how to whip cream perfectly.
- Let the cake chill overnight for the flavors to fully meld.
- Layer the raspberries generously for a more vibrant fruit presence.
FAQ
Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries? Yes, strawberries, blueberries, or peaches work wonderfully as substitutes.
How can I make this cake dairy-free? Use coconut cream whipped with powdered sugar as a substitute for heavy cream.
Can I prepare this cake in advance? Absolutely! This cake is best when made the day before and allowed to chill overnight.