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No-Bake Gingerbread Icebox Cakes

No-Bake Gingerbread Icebox Cakes

No-Bake Gingerbread Icebox Cakes are a simple yet spectacular festive dessert featuring layers of spiced gingerbread cookies and creamy whipped filling. Ready in minutes with no oven required, this dessert blends warm gingerbread spices with luscious cream and optional mix-ins for a perfect holiday treat or anytime indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Base

  • Gingerbread cookies (about 20-24 cookies, enough to layer a dish)

Creamy Filling

  • 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
  • 1 tablespoon molasses or honey (optional)

Optional Mix-ins and Garnishes

  • Chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) or chocolate chips (1/2 cup)
  • Powdered sugar or ground cinnamon for dusting
  • Whipped cream swirls for topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Creamy Filling: Whip the heavy cream with brown sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. In a separate bowl, beat the softened cream cheese with ground cinnamon, ground ginger, and optional molasses or honey until smooth. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, spiced filling.
  2. Layer the Cake: Using a glass dish or individual mason jars, start with a single layer of gingerbread cookies. Spread a generous layer of the creamy filling on top. Repeat alternating layers of cookies and cream until ingredients are used or container is full.
  3. Chill and Set: Cover the assembled cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the cookies to soften and meld with the cream layers for a cake-like texture.
  4. Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled, garnish with whipped cream swirls, a dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon, and a sprinkle of crushed gingerbread cookies or chopped nuts as desired. Slice and serve.

Notes

  • Use fresh, crisp gingerbread cookies for the best texture before chilling.
  • Beat the cream to stiff peaks to ensure a stable, fluffy filling.
  • Layer evenly for balanced slices and consistent flavor.
  • Refrigeration time is essential for the perfect melding of flavors and soft texture.
  • Try serving in clear jars or a trifle bowl to highlight the beautiful layered effect.

Nutrition

Keywords: gingerbread, no-bake dessert, icebox cake, holiday dessert, layered cake, whipped cream, cream cheese, ginger, cinnamon