Caramel Apple Icebox Cake

Caramel Apple Icebox Cake is a no-bake dessert masterpiece perfect for any occasion.

With layers of creamy whipped filling, crisp graham crackers, and a luscious caramel apple topping, this dessert combines the flavors of autumn with the simplicity of an icebox treat. It’s easy to prepare, deliciously indulgent, and sure to impress your friends and family!

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Rubber spatula
• Whisk

Ingredients Overview

• Apples: Fresh apples provide a sweet and tart contrast, giving the cake its signature fall flavor.
• Caramel Sauce: Brings richness and sweetness that pairs perfectly with the apples.
• Whipped Topping: Light and fluffy, it holds the layers together.
• Graham Crackers: Form the base and layers, softening as they absorb the filling.
• Cream Cheese: Adds a velvety, tangy touch to the filling.

Ingredients

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
• 4–5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 package graham crackers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Whipped Cream Filling

• In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
• In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully combined.

2. Cook the Apples

• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the chopped apples with 1/4 cup caramel sauce, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir occasionally until the apples soften slightly, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

3. Assemble the Icebox Cake

• Spread a thin layer of whipped cream mixture on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Place a layer of graham crackers on top, breaking them as needed to fit.
• Spread a layer of the whipped cream mixture over the graham crackers, followed by a layer of caramel-coated apples. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce.
• Repeat layers (graham crackers, whipped cream, apples, caramel) until the dish is full, finishing with a whipped cream layer on top.

4. Chill the Cake

• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.

5. Serve

• Drizzle with extra caramel sauce before serving and garnish with additional apple slices or chopped nuts if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Apple Variety: Use Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Honeycrisp for a sweeter touch.
• Make It Nutty: Add a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts between the layers for a crunchy texture.
• Caramel Sauce: Store-bought works well, but homemade caramel sauce will elevate the flavor.
• Whipped Cream Shortcut: Substitute with store-bought whipped topping if you’re short on time.

What to Serve With This Recipe

• A hot cup of spiced cider or coffee complements the dessert’s rich flavors.
• Pair with vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Serve as a lighter alternative to traditional pies at gatherings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! This cake is best made the day before serving to give the graham crackers time to soften and absorb the flavors.

How do I store leftovers?
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this dessert?
While it’s possible to freeze the icebox cake, the texture of the whipped cream and graham crackers may change slightly. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

What other fruits can I use?
Swap the apples for pears, peaches, or berries to create variations of this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• Sprinkle a little sea salt over the caramel topping for a sweet-and-salty twist.
• Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to each serving.
• For a festive look, garnish with caramelized apple slices or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

This Caramel Apple Icebox Cake is the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors. It’s a no-fuss dessert that’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser!

Caramel Apple Icebox Cake

Caramel Apple Icebox Cake is a no-bake dessert masterpiece perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

  

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 8 oz cream cheese softened
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce plus extra for drizzling
• 4 –5 medium apples peeled, cored, and chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg optional
• 1 package graham crackers

Instructions

 

• Prepare the Whipped Cream Filling
• In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream with a hand or stand mixer until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
• In a separate bowl, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped cream until fully combined.
• Cook the Apples
• In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the chopped apples with 1/4 cup caramel sauce, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir occasionally until the apples soften slightly, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
• Assemble the Icebox Cake
• Spread a thin layer of whipped cream mixture on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
• Place a layer of graham crackers on top, breaking them as needed to fit.
• Spread a layer of the whipped cream mixture over the graham crackers, followed by a layer of caramel-coated apples. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce.
• Repeat layers (graham crackers, whipped cream, apples, caramel) until the dish is full, finishing with a whipped cream layer on top.
• Chill the Cake
• Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the graham crackers to soften and the flavors to meld.
• Serve
• Drizzle with extra caramel sauce before serving and garnish with additional apple slices or chopped nuts if desired.