Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake

This Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake is a true gem. Imagine biting into a creamy, dreamlike dessert where each mouthful feels like a delightful hug. The mild saltiness of Ritz crackers contrasts beautifully with a rich salted caramel and smooth cream cheese filling. You don’t need to be a baking wizard to pull this off, which is precisely why it’s so appealing! Whether you’re busy with work, planning a family gathering, or just wanting to treat yourself to something special, this cake fits the bill effortlessly. Plus, you can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to mingle and deepen, which is always a win in the kitchen!

Jump to:

• Why This Recipe Works
• Why You’ll Love This Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake
• Ingredients
• Preparing the Caramel Sauce
• Create the Perfect Caramel
• Making the Cream Cheese Filling
• Beat for Creamy Perfection
• Assembling the Cake
• Layer with Love
• Chilling the Cake
• Set it to Perfection
• Serving the Cake
• Slice and Serve
• Tips for Success
• Variations
• Storage Tips
• Serving Suggestions
• FAQs
• More Easy Desserts Recipes:
• 📖 Recipe Card

Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try, how to bring it to life, and why it’ll become your go-to dessert for any occasion.

Why This Recipe Works

This Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake combines the salinity of Ritz crackers with the sweet richness of salted caramel and creamy cheesecake filling, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The icebox cake concept allows for easy assembly and makes it perfect for serving a crowd. With minimal preparation time and no baking required, this recipe offers practicality without compromising on taste.

Why You’ll Love This Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake

You’ll find this dessert not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser. It appeals to both the young and the young at heart. The unique combination of textures—from the crunch of the crackers to the smoothness of the cream cheese filling—makes every bite enjoyable. Plus, who can resist a dessert that looks as good as it tastes, especially when drizzled with additional caramel?

Ingredients

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 3/4 cup heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 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

Preparing the Caramel Sauce

Create the Perfect Caramel

First, combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Now, allow the mixture to cook undisturbed until it achieves a deep amber color, which usually takes about 10 minutes. At this point, carefully whisk in the sea salt and heavy cream—watch for a vigorous bubble-up! Stir until everything is smooth, then remove it from heat and mix in the butter and vanilla extract. Let the caramel cool to room temperature, and you’re ready for the next step.

Making the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat for Creamy Perfection

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy. Then, add in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Continue beating until the filling is fluffy and well-combined—this should only take a couple of minutes.

Assembling the Cake

Layer with Love

Next, line an 8×8-inch baking dish with plastic wrap, ensuring enough overhang for easy removal. Start by placing 16 Ritz crackers at the bottom. Spread 1/3 of the cream cheese mixture over the crackers, then drizzle with 1/3 of the salted caramel. Now, repeat this layering process two more times. Finish with the remaining cream cheese mixture on top for that perfect finishing touch.

Chilling the Cake

Set it to Perfection

Once you’ve assembled your masterpiece, cover the dish with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or preferably overnight. This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to set properly, ensuring your dessert cuts beautifully.

Serving the Cake

Slice and Serve

When you’re ready to serve, gently use the overhanging plastic wrap to lift the cake out of the dish. Cut it into squares and serve each piece with a fluffy dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle an extra bit of salted caramel sauce on top for that delightful finishing touch, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Tips for Success

• Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature. This helps with easy mixing and ensures a smooth filling.
• Allow the caramel sauce to cool completely before layering it; this will prevent it from melting the cream cheese filling, keeping your layers intact.
• You can be creative with your presentation—think chocolate shavings or crushed nuts for an extra pop!

Variations

• Nutty Delight: Toss in crushed pecans or walnuts between layers for a nutty crunch.
• Chocolate Lovers: Substitute some of the caramel with chocolate ganache for a richer dessert.
• Fruit Fusion: Layer in sliced bananas or strawberries for a fruity twist that brightens up the cake.

Storage Tips

Any leftover slices can be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap. The flavors deepen the longer it sits, making it even tastier after a day or two!

Serving Suggestions

Consider pairing this Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a nice cup of coffee. It’s also a fantastic option for potlucks or family gatherings, sure to impress!

FAQs

1. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese; however, it may affect the creaminess and overall texture of the filling.

2. How long does this icebox cake last?
This delicious dessert can last up to 5 days in the fridge, meaning you can savor it throughout the week.

3. Can I freeze the cake?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for up to a month. Just be sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.

4. What if I don’t have salted caramel sauce?
No worries! You can use unsalted caramel sauce and add a touch more sea salt for a similar flavor.

5. Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the Ritz crackers with gluten-free crackers to create a gluten-free version of this delightful cake.

This Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake isn’t just a treat for the taste buds, but also a feast for the eyes, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering. With easy preparation and scrumptious layers of flavor and texture, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy every delicious bite of this delightful creation!

More Easy Desserts Recipes:

• Strawberry Lemonade Cookies
• Watermelon Sugar Cookies
• Bananas Foster Cheesecake
• Filipino Mango Float

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