Introduction
Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and salty flavors of salted caramel with the buttery crunch of Ritz crackers. This no-bake treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday gathering or a simple family dessert. With its creamy layers and easy preparation, it is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Ritz Crackers – 2 sleeves
Cream Cheese – 8 oz, softened
Powdered Sugar – 1 cup
Cool Whip – 1 container (8 oz)
Salted Caramel Sauce – 1 cup, plus extra for drizzling
Milk – 1/4 cup
Vanilla Extract – 1 tsp
Sea Salt – for sprinkling on top
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (including refrigeration)
Yield: 12 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Caramel
Begin by placing a saucepan over medium heat. Add granulated sugar and cook while stirring constantly until the sugar melts and turns a golden amber color. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
Add Butter and Cream
Once the sugar has melted, carefully add the unsalted butter and stir until melted. Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream while continuing to stir. Be cautious as the mixture may bubble up. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the caramel cool to room temperature.
Prepare the Icebox Cake Layers
Line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper. Start by laying down a layer of Ritz crackers to cover the bottom.
Layer the Caramel and Cool Whip
Spread a layer of the cooled caramel over the crackers. Follow this with a layer of Cool Whip. Repeat the process, layering Ritz crackers, caramel, and Cool Whip until you reach the top of the dish, making sure to end with a layer of Cool Whip.
Chill the Cake
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the crackers to soften.
Serve the Cake
Once chilled, remove the cake from the refrigerator. Use the edges of the parchment paper to lift the cake out of the dish. Slice into squares and serve. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top if desired.
Notes
Caramel Consistency
Ensure that the caramel is cooled to room temperature before layering it with the crackers and Cool Whip to maintain the integrity of the layers.
Make Ahead
This icebox cake can be made a day in advance, making it a convenient dessert for gatherings.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The texture will continue to soften over time.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different flavors of whipped topping or adding a layer of nuts for added texture.
Cook techniques
Layering
The technique involves creating layers of ingredients to build texture and flavor in the icebox cake, alternating between Ritz crackers and salted caramel.
Chilling
Chilling is crucial as it helps the layers set together, allowing the flavors to meld and creating a firm structure to the cake.
Whipping
Whipping cream to soft peaks creates a light and airy texture, essential for the creamy filling of the cake.
Garnishing
Garnishing with additional caramel or crushed crackers on top provides visual appeal and enhances the overall flavor experience.
Marinating
Allowing the cake to sit for a period after assembling allows the flavors to deepen and the crackers to soften for a more cohesive taste.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes, you can substitute Ritz crackers with other similar crackers, but the flavor profile will change.
How long should I chill the cake?
It is recommended to chill the cake for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, for the best results.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! This icebox cake is perfect for making ahead of time as it stores well in the refrigerator.
What can I do if the caramel is too thick?
If the caramel is too thick, you can gently warm it up to loosen the consistency for easier spreading.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, store-bought caramel sauce can be used as a convenient substitute for homemade caramel.
Conclusion
This Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake is a delightful blend of sweet and salty flavors that creates a delectable treat suitable for any occasion. Its no-bake preparation makes it a convenient option for gatherings, while the layers of creamy caramel topping and crunchy crackers offer a unique texture that will keep everyone coming back for more.
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