Black Forest Icebox Cake Recipe – No-Bake Summer Hit [2025]

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Black Forest Icebox Cake Recipe – No-Bake Summer Hit [2025]

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Black Forest Icebox Cake is a no-bake masterpiece that combines rich chocolate, sweet cherries, and fluffy whipped cream into layers of heaven. 🍫🍒 It’s the perfect chilled dessert for summer gatherings, easy enough for a weeknight treat but beautiful enough for a celebration. Classic Black Forest flavors made effortless — no oven required.

Ingredients

2 cups heavy whipping cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 (9 oz) package chocolate wafer cookies
1 can (21 oz) cherry pie filling
1 oz dark chocolate (shaved)
Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

Directions

  1. In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
  2. Spread a thin layer of whipped cream in the bottom of an 8×8″ dish.
  3. Add a layer of chocolate wafer cookies.
  4. Spread more whipped cream on top of the cookies, then spoon over a layer of cherry pie filling.
  5. Repeat the layers: cookies, cream, cherries — until you reach the top, ending with whipped cream.
  6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight to allow the cookies to soften.
  7. Before serving, garnish with shaved dark chocolate and optional maraschino cherries.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 9
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 6 hours minimum
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes

Variations

  • Use chocolate pound cake slices instead of cookies for a softer texture.
  • Swap cherry pie filling for raspberry or strawberry.
  • Add a splash of kirsch or cherry liqueur for a grown-up twist.

Storage and Reheating

Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. This cake is not suitable for freezing. No reheating needed — best served cold.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead?
Yes, it’s even better when made a day in advance.
Can I use whipped topping instead of homemade cream?
Yes, use 3 cups of thawed whipped topping if preferred.
What if I can’t find chocolate wafers?
Use chocolate graham crackers or thin chocolate cookies instead.

Conclusion

This Black Forest Icebox Cake delivers big flavor with zero baking. It’s nostalgic, refreshing, and crowd-pleasing — perfect for lazy summer days or special moments. Keep it chilled, slice generously, and watch it disappear.

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