Maybe you love and crave fall flavors, but you don't have the time or desire to bake. This no bake apple layer cake—or icebox cake--is a quick, easy, and delicious dessert that requires no oven time. And you only need just a few ingredients!
What is an apple layer cake or icebox cake?
The icebox cake came about in the 1930's when iceboxes were being promoted in the United States as a new kitchen appliance. Icebox cakes are made a lot like a trifle. Layers of cookie are layered between beds of whipped cream. It's then refrigerated to allow the cookies to soften so they become more cake like in taste and texture. No bake desserts are popular for everything from cheesecake, cake, and cookies!
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Ingredients
Icebox cakes only require just a few ingredients:
- Cookies--graham crackers or ginger crackers
- Frozen whipped topping
- Apple pie filling
- Cinnamon
Instructions
- In an 8x8 inch pan, layer a single layer of graham crackers or ginger crackers. Generously top with thawed whipped topping. Place another layer of graham crackers followed by another layer of whipped topping on top., then another layer of graham crackers. Top the final layer of graham cracker with apple pie filling.
- Cover and place cake in the fridge for a minimum of 4 hours but up to 8-12 hours before serving to allow the crackers to soften. Remove from fridge and top with additional whipped topping and sprinkle with cinnamon. Serve.
Substitutions
You can make some easy substitutions to fit your dietary needs or preferences.
- Gluten free: Simply substitute gluten free graham crackers or gluten free ginger thins.
- Vegan: You will want to make sure the graham crackers or ginger cookies you use are vegan. You will also want to use a plant based frozen whipped topping.
- Dairy free: Make sure your graham crackers or ginger cookie thins you are using are dairy free. In addition you will want to use dairy free frozen whipped topping.
Storing your apple layer cake
The no-bake apple layer cake will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out or absorbing other odors from the fridge.
Freezing is not recommended for this cake, as the texture of the whipped cream can change when frozen and thawed. It's best enjoyed fresh from the refrigerator.
Variations
You can make some variations of this cake. Instead of graham crackers you can use ginger cookies or ginger thins. You can even use digestive biscuits, vanilla wafers, or even shortbread cookies. The key is to use a cookie that will soften nicely when chilled.
You may also experiment with different fruits too! This cake is versatile and can be adapted to include other fruits. Pears and berries are popular variations of this cake too!
FAQ
Yes, you can use store-bought apple pie filling to save time. However, homemade filling offers a fresher flavor and allows you to control the sweetness and spice level.
If your graham crackers are still a bit too firm after chilling, try leaving the cake in the refrigerator for a few more hours. If you’re short on time, you can also lightly brush the graham crackers with apple juice or milk before layering them to help them soften faster.
Yes instead of making 1 large cake you can also make individual servings. You can assemble this dessert in individual jars or ramekins for a fun, personalized touch. Simply layer the ingredients as you would in the larger dish, then chill and serve.
4 Ingredient No Bake Apple Layer Cake
Equipment
- 1 8x8 inch square pan
Ingredients
- 1 box gluten free graham crackers
- 1 tub frozen whipped topping thawed
- 2 cups apple pie filling
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon can substitute apple pie spice
Instructions
- In an 8x8 inch pan, start by laying down a single layer of graham crackers.
- Generously spread a layer of thawed frozen whipped topping over the graham crackers.
- Add another layer of graham crackers on top of the whipped topping, followed by another layer of whipped topping.
- Place a final layer of graham crackers on top.
- Spread the apple pie filling evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.
- Cover the pan and refrigerate the cake for 8-12 hours to allow the graham crackers to soften and absorb the flavors.
- Before serving, remove the cake from the fridge and top with additional whipped topping. Sprinkle with cinnamon or apple pie spice for added flavor. Slice and serve.
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