What is Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake?
Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake is a no-bake dessert that masterfully balances the salty crunch of Ritz crackers with the sweet, gooey delight of salted caramel and creamy cheese layers. This dessert is perfect for those warm days when you crave something sweet but don’t want to heat up the kitchen.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This cake is a fantastic blend of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. The salty Ritz crackers pair perfectly with the sweet caramel and creamy cheese filling, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires no baking, making it a stress-free dessert option for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cake
- 2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 48 Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
- Whipped cream (for garnish)
How to Make Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves. Let it cook without stirring until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully whisk in the sea salt and heavy cream—it will bubble up vigorously, so be cautious. Continue whisking until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Allow it to cool.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until fluffy and well combined.
- Assemble the Cake: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Place a layer of 16 Ritz crackers on the bottom of the dish. Spread 1/3 of the cream cheese mixture over the crackers, then drizzle with 1/3 of the caramel sauce. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with the cream cheese mixture on top.
- Chill the Cake: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld and the cake set.
- Serve: Use the plastic wrap to lift the cake out of the dish. Cut into squares and serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of extra caramel sauce.
Tips for Success
- Use Softened Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother filling.
- Chill Thoroughly: Letting the cake chill for at least 12 hours ensures it sets properly and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Taste and Adjust: Feel free to taste the cream cheese mixture before assembling and adjust the sweetness if needed.
Variations
- Different Crackers: Try using Graham Crackers or chocolate wafer cookies for a different flavor profile.
- Alternative Sauces: If you’re not a fan of caramel, try using chocolate or strawberry sauce instead.
- Cheese Alternatives: Use mascarpone or ricotta cheese in place of cream cheese for a different texture and taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for making a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cake will stay fresh and delicious, and the flavors will continue to blend together.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to fancy parties. Its unique combination of flavors and textures will make it a standout dessert that everyone will rave about.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful no-bake cake with your friends and family!
Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake
Ingredients
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cake
- 2 packages 8 oz each cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 48 Ritz crackers
- 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce plus more for drizzling
- Whipped cream for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let it cook without stirring until it turns a deep amber color. Carefully whisk in the sea salt and heavy cream—it will bubble up vigorously, so be cautious. Continue whisking until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Allow it to cool.
- Make the Cream Cheese Filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until fluffy and well combined.
- Assemble the Cake: Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang on the sides for easy removal later. Place a layer of 16 Ritz crackers on the bottom of the dish. Spread 1/3 of the cream cheese mixture over the crackers, then drizzle with 1/3 of the caramel sauce. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with the cream cheese mixture on top.
- Chill the Cake: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or overnight, to let the flavors meld and the cake set.
- Serve: Use the plastic wrap to lift the cake out of the dish. Cut into squares and serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of extra caramel sauce.
