If you’re craving a show-stopping summer treat that takes mere minutes to make, the No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake is about to be your new best friend! It’s silly-simple to assemble (seriously: no oven, no stress), and it layers creamy, chocolatey goodness into every bite. This is one of those fabulous desserts that vanishes the instant you set it down—trust me, there won’t be leftovers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Totally Effortless: No baking, no fancy gadgets, just layer, chill, and enjoy a glorious homemade ice cream cake!
- Crowd-Pleasing & Kid-Approved: Every age falls in love with those soft ice cream sandwiches and all the fudge and cookies on top.
- Ultra-Customizable: Swap flavors, mix and match toppings, or add sprinkles—make it your own for any occasion.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it hours (or days!) early and keep it in the freezer until it’s party time—zero last-minute stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You won’t believe how just a handful of nostalgic favorites come together to create the magic of this No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake. Every ingredient brings something essential: creamy, chocolatey layers, irresistible whipped topping, and, of course, that iconic Oreo crunch finish.
- Ice Cream Sandwiches (21): The sturdy, creamy base of your “cake”—classic vanilla is perfect, but feel free to play with flavors.
- Hot Fudge (11.75 oz): Rich and gooey, this brings decadent chocolatey swirls to every bite. Warm slightly for easier spreading.
- Cool Whip (16 oz tub, thawed & divided): Fluffy, sweet, and light; this acts as your “frosting” and balances all the chocolate.
- Oreos (18, crushed): For a crunchy, cookie crumble topping—go classic or use a fun flavor for extra flair.
Variations
The best part about a No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake is how easy it is to tweak for every taste bud and occasion. Don’t be afraid to mix things up with all sorts of flavors, toppings, or allergy-friendly swaps!
- Switch Up the Ice Cream Sandwiches: Try cookies-and-cream, chocolate chip, or Neapolitan ice cream sandwiches for a flavor twist.
- Dairy-Free or Gluten-Free: Use dairy-free “ice cream” sandwiches and whipped topping, and gluten-free cookies so everyone can indulge worry-free.
- Add Extra Layers: Chop up candy bars, add a drizzle of caramel, or throw in fresh fruit to make the layers even more decadent.
- Mini Cakes for Celebrations: Assemble individual sandwich stacks in muffin tins for adorable single-serve treats—perfect for parties!
How to Make No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
Step 1: Build the First Layer
Arrange a single, snug layer of ice cream sandwiches on the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan. If they don’t fit perfectly, trim a few sandwiches to fill in any gaps—don’t worry, a slightly rustic look is part of the fun and charm!
Step 2: Get Gooey with Fudge & Fluff
Spread one-third of the hot fudge (slightly warmed so it’s easy to drizzle) over those sandwiches, then swoop on half the Cool Whip. Take a second to admire those luscious, creamy layers—they’re the heart of what makes this cake legendary!
Step 3: Repeat & Finish with Cookies
Add a second layer of ice cream sandwiches right over the Cool Whip. Top with another third of the hot fudge and the rest of your Cool Whip, then shower the entire surface with your crushed Oreos. Drizzle on the last of the fudge for a dramatic finish.
Step 4: Freeze Until Set
Place your cake in the freezer, uncovered at first, for at least 4 hours (overnight is even better) so everything can meld together into a sliceable dream. When it’s ready, let it sit at room temp just a few minutes for the easiest slicing.
Pro Tips for Making No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
- Sandwich Swapping: If your sandwiches are different sizes, cut and rotate them for a snug, even base without big gaps.
- The Ultimate Fudge Drizzle: Briefly microwave the hot fudge in 10-second bursts for effortless spreading—just don’t overheat, or it’ll melt the ice cream layers!
- Clean Slices, Every Time: Dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts for picture-perfect, bakery-style squares.
- Oreo Texture Magic: Crush your Oreos to your favorite consistency—chunky for serious crunch, or finely crumbled for a more even topping!
How to Serve No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake
Garnishes
Go wild with toppings! A sprinkle of colorful sprinkles, extra crushed Oreos, or a swirl of caramel or chocolate sauce makes every slice of No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake look extra inviting. Add fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and a hint of summer brightness.
Side Dishes
Since this dessert is sweet and rich, lighter sides are the way to go. Serve with a big bowl of cut fruit, or even an iced coffee, lemonade, or cold brew tea for grown-ups—a lovely balance to the cake’s indulgence.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this cake straight from the pan for family-style fun or, for special occasions, slice and stack individual portions on a dessert platter. For birthdays, pipe whipped cream rosettes and add candles. Or layer mini versions in mason jars for sweet grab-and-go party treats!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers of your No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake tightly covered (either with plastic wrap or a secure lid) in the freezer for up to one week. Just be sure to seal well so the cake doesn’t pick up any freezer odors.
Freezing
This cake is built for the freezer! Once assembled, you can keep it frozen for up to a week before serving. To keep layers neat, freeze it uncovered for the first hour so the top firms up, then cover for long-term storage.
Reheating
No reheating needed—just take the cake out of the freezer about 10 minutes before slicing so it softens enough for easy serving. If it’s extra firm, a sharp knife run under warm water works wonders!
FAQs
-
Can I make No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake tastes even better when made ahead. Assemble it a day (or two!) in advance, freeze, and slice just before serving—the layers meld beautifully in the freezer.
-
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
Homemade whipped cream works wonderfully—just whip it stiff so it holds its shape when frozen. Keep in mind it won’t be quite as stable for long freezer storage as Cool Whip, so enjoy within a day or two.
-
What if I don’t have enough ice cream sandwiches?
No problem! Just cut the recipe in half and use a smaller pan, or patch together leftover pieces so everything is covered—you’ll still get all the flavor, promise.
-
How do I crush the Oreos for the topping?
The easiest way is to pop them in a zip-top bag and smash gently with a rolling pin. For a finer topping, give them a few pulses in a food processor. Leave some chunky pieces for the best texture!
Final Thoughts
This No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake is pure summer fun in dessert form! Whether you’re making it for a birthday, BBQ, or just because you love a good shortcut, I hope it brings as many smiles to your table as it has to mine. Go ahead—give it a try, and don’t forget to grab a fork before it disappears!
Print
No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this easy and delicious No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Layers of ice cream sandwiches, hot fudge, Cool Whip, and crushed Oreos make for a delightful frozen treat.
Ingredients
Ingredients for No Bake Ice Cream Sandwich Cake:
- 21 ice cream sandwiches
- 18 Oreos (or similar, crushed)
- 11.75 ounce hot fudge
- 16 ounce tub Cool Whip (thawed and divided)
Instructions
- Arrange Ice Cream Sandwiches: Place a layer of ice cream sandwiches at the bottom of a 9×13 inch pan.
- Add Hot Fudge and Cool Whip: Spread ⅓ of the hot fudge over the sandwiches, then layer half of the Cool Whip on top.
- Repeat Layers: Create another layer of sandwiches, hot fudge, and Cool Whip.
- Top with Oreos: Sprinkle the crushed Oreos over the top and drizzle the remaining ⅓ of hot fudge.
- Freeze: Place the cake in the freezer for at least 4 hours.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: Approximately 380 kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
