This festive Halloween Icebox Cake is a no-bake dessert masterpiece layered with Oreo cookies and fluffy, orange-tinted whipped cream. Easy to assemble and full of visual appeal, it’s perfect for spooky celebrations and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults. With its creamy texture and classic cookie crunch, it’s a Halloween treat that disappears quickly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe requires no oven, no complicated techniques, and only a handful of ingredients. It’s ideal for busy hosts or those looking for a fun, make-ahead dessert. The vibrant layers of orange whipped cream create a striking appearance, while the softened Oreo cookies give it a cake-like texture after chilling. The final touch of Halloween sprinkles and icing makes it a playful addition to your holiday table.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
Orange food coloring (gel recommended for best color)
2 (14.5-ounce) packages Oreo cookies (approximately 42 cookies)
Orange icing (for decoration)
Halloween sprinkles (for decoration)

Directions

Prepare the pan:
Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment paper or plastic wrap, leaving an overhang to help lift out the cake once set.
Make the whipped cream:
In a large bowl, combine the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and powdered sugar. Using an electric mixer, whip the mixture on high until stiff peaks form, about 4–5 minutes.
Tint the whipped cream:
Divide the whipped cream into three equal portions. Add varying amounts of orange food coloring to create three distinct shades—dark, medium, and light orange. Gently fold the coloring into each portion until evenly blended.
Assemble the cake:

Layer 1: Add a single layer of Oreo cookies to the bottom of the pan, breaking a few if needed to cover gaps.
Layer 2: Spread the darkest shade of whipped cream evenly over the cookies.
Layer 3: Repeat with another layer of cookies, then add the medium orange whipped cream.
Layer 4: Finish with a final layer of cookies and top with the lightest shade of whipped cream, smoothing the surface.

Chill the cake:
Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or overnight, to allow the cookies to soften and the layers to firm up.
Decorate and serve:
Carefully remove the cake from the pan. Decorate the top with orange icing and Halloween-themed sprinkles. Slice and serve chilled.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Chill Time: 6+ hours
Total Time: 20 minutes (plus chilling)
Servings: 12
Calories: 500 kcal per serving

Variations

Cookie Swap: Use chocolate graham crackers or different flavored sandwich cookies for variety.
Holiday Colors: Switch the food coloring to green and red for Christmas or pastels for springtime events.
Candy Crunch: Add crushed candy bars or chopped Halloween candy between the layers for extra texture.
Spiced Whip: Add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice or cinnamon to the whipped cream for a warm autumn twist.
Mini Version: Assemble individual cakes in mason jars or cups for easy party servings.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Do not freeze, as the whipped cream may separate once thawed. Keep chilled until serving, and cover any leftovers tightly to maintain freshness.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought whipped topping?

Yes, but freshly whipped cream offers better flavor and texture. If using whipped topping, skip the powdered sugar.

How do I get vibrant orange whipped cream?

Use gel food coloring for bold, even coloring without thinning the cream.

Can I assemble this in a different pan?

Yes, a rectangular or square dish will also work. Adjust the layering pattern as needed.

Do I need to separate the Oreo cookies?

No, use them whole—the cream filling helps soften the cookies as the cake chills.

Can I add other flavors to the whipped cream?

Yes, a bit of cinnamon, nutmeg, or orange zest can add subtle flavor variations.

Will the cookies really soften like cake?

Yes, after chilling for several hours, the cookies absorb moisture from the whipped cream and take on a cake-like consistency.

Can I make this cake the day before?

Absolutely—it’s best when chilled overnight, making it an ideal make-ahead dessert.

What’s the best way to slice this cake?

Use a sharp knife wiped clean between slices for neat layers.

Can I skip the food coloring?

Yes, but the orange shades enhance the Halloween theme. It’s optional for taste but adds to the visual appeal.

Is this safe for kids to help make?

Yes, it’s a fun, safe recipe for kids to help with—no heat required and lots of layering fun.

Conclusion

Halloween Icebox Cake is the perfect make-ahead dessert for your spooky celebrations.

Halloween Icebox Cake

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Author: Olivia
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This no-bake Halloween Icebox Cake is a spooky sweet treat layered with Oreo cookies and whipped cream tinted in festive orange hues. Easy to make and eye-catching on any Halloween table, it’s the perfect dessert for parties, potlucks, or a fun night in with family!

Ingredients

4 cups heavy whipping cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup powdered sugar
Orange food coloring (gel preferred for vibrant color)
2 (14.5 oz) packages Oreo cookies (approx. 42 cookies)
Orange icing (for decoration)

Halloween sprinkles (for decoration)

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Instructions

Prepare Pan: Line a 9-inch springform pan with parchment or plastic wrap, allowing overhang for easy removal.
Make Whipped Cream: Beat heavy cream, vanilla, and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form (4–5 minutes).
Tint Cream: Divide whipped cream into 3 bowls. Add different amounts of orange food coloring to each to create three shades.
Assemble Layers:
- Layer Oreos at the bottom of the pan.
- Spread darkest orange whipped cream on top.
- Repeat with another Oreo layer and medium shade cream.
- Finish with a third Oreo layer and the lightest orange cream on top. Smooth surface.
Chill: Cover and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight until set.

Decorate & Serve: Remove cake from pan. Decorate with orange icing and Halloween sprinkles. Slice and serve chilled.

Notes

Chill overnight for the best soft, cake-like texture.
Try it with chocolate whipped cream or flavored cookies for a twist.

Add Halloween candies on top for extra festive flair!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: No-Bake
Cuisine: American