This layered cake is the kind of dessert that feels fancy but is secretly effortless, the type you can pull off while sipping coffee and chatting with guests. Soft coffee-and-milk-soaked cookies, velvety custard cream, and rich chocolate pudding come together in alternating layers, creating a delicious dessert.
This is a treat that works for birthdays, sunday lunches, or a mid day snack.
What is a No-Bake Layered Cake?
This layered cake, often called an icebox cake, is a chilled dessert made by stacking cookies, crackers, or biscuits with layers of cream, pudding, or other fillings. As it chills, the cookies soften and take on a cake-like texture, making each slice tender.
While variations of this dessert date back to the early 20th century, the concept is timeless, easy to prepare, endlessly customizable, and perfect for warm days.
Pro Tips for the Best No-Bake Layered Cake
- Alternate flavors generously. The beauty of this cake is in the contrast of creamy custard and chocolate pudding, so don’t hesitate to put in enough.
- Use a deep dish because taller layers look more impressive when sliced.
- Choose sturdy cookies because softer cookies will turn soggy too quickly. Use biscuits that can hold their shape after dipping.
- Use a warm knife for cutting to avoid dragging through soft layers.
- A dash of vanilla extract in the custard or a sprinkle of cinnamon in the coffee adds an extra layer of complexity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of cookies?
Yes! While plain tea biscuits work perfectly, you can experiment with graham crackers, shortbread, or even chocolate cookies for a richer flavor.
Do I have to use coffee?
No, you can replace coffee with just milk or even a mix of milk and a flavored syrup like caramel or hazelnut for a kid-friendly version.
What can I use instead of custard cream?
Vanilla pudding, whipped cream, or even mascarpone cream can work beautifully here.
How to Store Layered Cake
Keep it covered in the fridge to prevent it from absorbing other odors. A glass dish with a lid or tightly wrapped plastic film works perfectly. It is also best eaten within 3–4 days.
Ingredients
How to Make a Layered Cake
Dip cookies briefly in the milk-and-coffee mixture, then arrange them snugly at the bottom of your serving dish. Spread a generous layer of custard cream over the cookies, smoothing it to the edges. Then, add another layer of dipped cookies over the cream.
Dip cookies briefly in the milk-and-coffee mixture, then arrange them snugly at the bottom of your serving dish. Spread a generous layer of custard cream over the cookies, smoothing it to the edges. Then, add another layer of dipped cookies over the cream.
Spread chocolate pudding evenly over the cookies and add another layer of cookies.
Spread chocolate pudding evenly over the cookies and add another layer of cookies.
Continue alternating layers of cookies, custard, and pudding until you have at least three layers in total.
Continue alternating layers of cookies, custard, and pudding until you have at least three layers in total.
Dust the top generously with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. before slicing.
Dust the top generously with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours. before slicing.
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