This Salted Caramel Oreo Icebox Cake is a no-bake, layered dessert that combines crunchy Oreo cookies, luscious salted caramel, and a creamy filling. The layers soften as they chill, creating a decadent, cake-like texture without the need for baking. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for summer, holidays, or any time you want an easy and indulgent treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake & Easy – Perfect for warm days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
- Creamy & Crunchy – The layers soften to perfection while still maintaining texture.
- Sweet & Salty Perfection – The salted caramel adds an irresistible balance to the sweetness.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Gets better the longer it chills!
- Crowd-Pleaser – A hit at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Oreo cookies (regular or double-stuffed)
- Heavy whipping cream
- Cream cheese, softened
- Powdered sugar
- Vanilla extract
- Salted caramel sauce
- Milk (for dipping the Oreos)
- Flaky sea salt (for garnish)
Directions
Step 1: Make the Creamy Filling
- Whip the Cream – In a bowl, beat heavy whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
- Mix the Base – In another bowl, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.
- Combine – Gently fold in the whipped cream to create a light, fluffy filling.
Step 2: Assemble the Layers
- Dip & Layer Oreos – Lightly dip each Oreo in milk and layer them at the bottom of a dish.
- Spread Cream – Spread a layer of the cream mixture over the Oreos.
- Drizzle with Caramel – Drizzle salted caramel sauce over the cream layer.
- Repeat – Continue layering Oreos, cream, and caramel until you reach the top.
Step 3: Chill & Serve
- Refrigerate – Cover and chill for at least 6 hours (or overnight) to let the layers soften.
- Garnish – Before serving, drizzle more caramel on top and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
- Slice & Enjoy – Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy, dreamy layers!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8-10
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chilling Time: 6+ hours
- Total Time: About 6 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Chocolate Lover’s Version – Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cream layers.
- Peanut Butter Twist – Mix peanut butter into the cream cheese filling.
- Extra Crunchy – Use chopped pretzels or toffee bits for texture.
- Different Cookies – Try Golden Oreos or chocolate chip cookies for a twist.
- Coffee Kick – Dip Oreos in cold brew instead of milk for a mocha-inspired treat.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
- Serving Tip: Best enjoyed chilled for the perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes! But homemade salted caramel adds extra richness.
How do I prevent the cake from getting too soggy?
Dip the Oreos quickly in milk—don’t soak them.
Can I use Cool Whip instead of whipped cream?
Yes, but homemade whipped cream gives a fresher taste.
What’s the best dish to use?
An 8×8 or 9×9-inch dish works best for layering.
Can I make this in advance?
Yes! It tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, but full-fat cream cheese gives the best texture.
How do I make this into individual servings?
Layer in small jars or glasses for easy, single-serve desserts.
Can I make this without cream cheese?
Yes! Swap it for Greek yogurt or mascarpone for a different texture.
How do I get clean slices?
Use a sharp knife and wipe it clean between cuts.
Can I add nuts for extra crunch?
Absolutely! Chopped pecans or almonds make a great addition.
Conclusion
This Salted Caramel Oreo Icebox Cake is an easy, no-bake dessert that delivers layers of creamy, crunchy, sweet, and salty goodness. Perfect for any occasion, it’s a simple yet indulgent treat that’s sure to impress. Make it ahead, chill, and enjoy a decadent slice whenever you crave something special!
PrintSalted Caramel Oreo Icebox Cake
This no-bake dessert layers Oreo cookies, luscious whipped cream, and homemade salted caramel for a decadent treat that gets even better as it chills. Perfect for parties, summer nights, or when you need a sweet fix with minimal effort!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
For the Cake Layers:
- 1 family-size pack Oreo cookies (~36 cookies)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Salted Caramel Sauce:
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
For Garnish:
- Crushed Oreos
- Extra caramel drizzle
- A pinch of flaky sea salt
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce
- In a small saucepan, melt sugar over medium heat, stirring continuously until it turns a golden amber color.
- Add butter and stir until fully melted.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in sea salt. Let cool.
Step 2: Make the Whipped Cream
- In a large bowl, beat heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form.
Step 3: Assemble the Icebox Cake
- In a 9×9-inch dish, spread a thin layer of whipped cream on the bottom.
- Arrange a single layer of Oreo cookies over the whipped cream.
- Drizzle with salted caramel and add a thick layer of whipped cream.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with whipped cream on top.
Step 4: Chill & Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (overnight is best) to allow the cookies to soften into a cake-like texture.
- Before serving, drizzle with extra caramel, sprinkle with crushed Oreos, and add a pinch of flaky sea salt.
Notes
- Shortcut Version: Use store-bought caramel sauce to save time.
- Extra Crunch? Add chopped pecans or chocolate chips between layers.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve chilled with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!