When it comes to desserts, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing slice of cake on a warm day. And what better way to enjoy your favorite flavors than with a chilled and creamy treat? Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and decadent or fruity and bright, we’ve got you covered with these 18 creamy refrigerated cakes that are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
From rich and chocolatey no-bake eclair cakes to light and airy lemon icebox cakes, each of these recipes is a masterclass in balance and flavor. And the best part? They’re all incredibly easy to make and require minimal effort, thanks to their refrigerated nature.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of creamy refrigerated cakes and explore the many flavors and textures that await you. So grab your mixing bowl and let’s get started!
No-Bake Chocolate Eclair Cake
This decadent dessert combines the classic flavors of chocolate and cream in a show-stopping cake that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 8 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the graham cracker crumbs and melted butter until well combined.
2. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream mixture until well combined.
6. Pour the cake batter over the crust and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Release the springform pan sides and slice the cake to serve.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake cake is ready in a snap.
Lemon Icebox Cake with Fresh Berries
Lemon Icebox Cake with Fresh Berries: A refreshing dessert that combines the brightness of lemon with the sweetness of fresh berries.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined. Press into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Bake crust for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned. Let cool completely.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks and lemon juice until smooth. Add heavy cream and whisk until stiff peaks form.
5. Spread whipped mixture over cooled crust.
6. Top with fresh berries.
7. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes for crust, no cooking time required for filling
Strawberry Refrigerator Cheesecake
This light and creamy cheesecake is infused with the sweetness of strawberries, perfect for a warm weather dessert or snack. With no baking required, it’s an effortless treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix crust ingredients until well combined.
2. Press crust mixture into a 9×13-inch dish.
3. Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth.
4. Add sour cream, vanilla extract, and whisk until combined.
5. Arrange strawberry slices on top of the cheesecake mixture.
6. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None (cools in refrigerator)
Tiramisu Chilled Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and decadent Tiramisu Chilled Cake recipe, featuring the classic Italian flavors of ladyfingers, mascarpone, and espresso.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine espresso and sugar; stir until dissolved.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture for about 3-5 seconds on each side (do not soak).
3. In a separate bowl, mix mascarpone cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth.
4. To assemble, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a 9×13-inch dish; spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat steps 2-4.
6. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (assembly and refrigeration only)
Peanut Butter Fudge Icebox Cake
A classic dessert that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser, this peanut butter fudge icebox cake is a perfect treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped peanuts
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
4. In a large bowl, beat peanut butter until smooth.
5. Add confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
6. Pour peanut butter mixture over crust.
7. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
8. Spread melted chocolate over peanut butter layer.
9. Sprinkle chopped peanuts on top of cake.
10. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None (assembles and refrigerates)
Banana Pudding Refrigerator Cake
A classic Southern dessert gets a modern twist with this creamy banana pudding refrigerator cake. Layers of moist banana bread, creamy pudding, and whipped cream come together to create a show-stopping treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf banana bread (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup vanilla pudding mix
Instructions:
1. Cut the banana bread into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Add powdered sugar and salt; whip until combined.
3. In a separate bowl, combine sliced bananas and softened butter.
4. Assemble the cake by layering banana bread, banana-butter mixture, and whipped cream in a 9×13-inch dish.
5. Top with vanilla pudding mix and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cook Time: None! This cake is best served chilled.
Oreo Cookie Icebox Cake
This classic dessert is a no-bake treat that’s perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a quick and easy dessert solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.4 oz) package Oreo cookies, crushed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crushed Oreos and powdered sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, cream cheese, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Pour the cream mixture over the Oreo mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Press the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a springform pan lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the cake to set.
6. Release from the pan, slice, and serve.
Cooking Time: None! This no-bake dessert is ready in just a few hours.
Pistachio Chilled Delight Cake
This refreshing cake is perfect for warm weather, featuring a creamy pistachio filling and a light, fluffy texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pistachios
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Powdered sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add egg whites and whisk until smooth.
3. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in pistachios and vanilla extract.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool completely before spreading with heavy cream and refrigerating for at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Raspberry Cream Cheese Refrigerator Cake
This refreshing cake is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick dessert fix. With its creamy cheesecake filling and sweet-tart raspberry layer, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until combined. Press into prepared pan.
3. Beat cream cheese, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. Pour over crust.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until edges are set.
5. Allow cake to cool completely. Top with whipped cream and fresh raspberries.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Key Lime Chilled Pie Cake
A refreshing twist on traditional cake, this Key Lime Chilled Pie Cake combines the brightness of key lime with the creaminess of whipped cream and a moist vanilla sponge. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a sweet and tangy treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg whites
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons grated key lime zest
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and egg whites. Add softened butter and mix until smooth.
3. Stir in key lime zest and juice.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Chocolate Mousse Refrigerator Cake
Create a decadent dessert with this simple recipe. A chocolate mousse refrigerator cake is perfect for warm weather, as it’s light and refreshing.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces good-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted chocolate, sugar, and salt.
3. Add the softened butter to the chocolate mixture and whisk until smooth.
4. Fold in the egg whites and vanilla extract.
5. Gently fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until well combined.
6. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch dish or a mold of your choice.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time:
– 3 hours to refrigerate
Coconut Cream Dream Icebox Cake
Coconut Cream Dream Icebox Cake: A creamy, dreamy dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days or any occasion when you need a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs and sugar.
2. Add softened butter and stir until the mixture is well combined.
3. Press the crust mixture into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream until smooth.
5. Stir in shredded coconut and vanilla extract.
6. Pour the coconut cream mixture over the graham cracker crust.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an icebox cake that sets in the refrigerator.
Blueberry Lemon Chilled Cake
Beat the heat with this sweet and tangy cake that combines the sweetness of blueberries with the brightness of lemon. This chilled treat is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick dessert fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
3. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by lemon juice.
4. Gently fold in blueberries.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Caramel Apple Icebox Cake
A refreshing dessert perfect for warm weather, this Caramel Apple Icebox Cake is a twist on the classic icebox cake. Layers of moist apple cake, creamy caramel, and crunchy nuts come together in a sweet and satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13 inch apple spice cake
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups chopped walnuts
– 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
Instructions:
1. Cut the apple cake into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream and butter until smooth.
3. Add the chopped walnuts and mix until well combined.
4. Fold in the apple cake cubes until coated with the cream mixture.
5. Spread half of the cake mixture into a 9×13 inch dish.
6. Drizzle with caramel sauce and top with sliced apples.
7. Repeat layers, finishing with the remaining cake mixture on top.
8. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None, as this is an icebox cake that sets in the refrigerator.
Pumpkin Spice Chilled Cheesecake
Celebrate the flavors of fall with this creamy and refreshing dessert. Pumpkin spice adds a warm and cozy twist to traditional cheesecake, perfect for any autumn occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust by mixing crumbs and sugar in a bowl. Add melted butter and stir until combined. Press into a springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar, pumpkin puree, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake mixture into crust. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until set.
5. Let cool completely. Chill in refrigerator for at least 4 hours.
6. Top with whipped heavy cream before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes + chilling time
Black Forest Refrigerator Cake
This iconic German dessert gets a modern twist with our simplified recipe, featuring layers of chocolate cake, whipped cream, and cherry preserves.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 6 ounces semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 1 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix dry ingredients, then add wet ingredients and chocolate chips. Pour into prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. Allow cake to cool completely. Whip heavy cream with vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread over cooled cake.
4. Drizzle cherry preserves over whipped cream layer. If using walnuts, sprinkle on top.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peaches and Cream Icebox Cake
This classic dessert is a staple of warm-weather gatherings, requiring minimal cooking effort but maximum flavor payoff. A creamy filling, sweet peaches, and crumbly vanilla wafers come together to create a refreshing treat perfect for potlucks or picnics.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large ripe peaches, diced
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar and continue whipping until smooth.
2. Fold in diced peaches and vanilla extract.
3. In a large serving dish or individual cups, create a layer of crushed vanilla wafers.
4. Spoon half of the peach-cream mixture over the wafers.
5. Repeat layers, finishing with the remaining cream topping.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert requires no cooking; simply assemble and chill.
Matcha Green Tea Chilled Cake
Cool down with this refreshing matcha green tea cake, perfect for warm weather or any time you need a pick-me-up. This moist and flavorful dessert is infused with the subtle bitterness of matcha, balanced by sweet and creamy notes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (200g) all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon matcha powder
– 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 6-inch (15cm) springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and matcha powder.
3. In a large bowl, whisk eggs until frothy. Add softened butter and whisk until combined.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Whisk until smooth.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of creamy, refrigerated cakes! From classic no-bake chocolate eclairs to refreshing strawberry refrigerator cheesecakes, these 18 recipes offer a delightful escape from the ordinary. Say goodbye to tedious baking and hello to effortless, make-ahead treats that are perfect for any occasion. With flavors ranging from rich tiramisu to tangy key lime pie, there’s something for everyone in this collection of creamy chilled delights.