Description
Matzo Icebox Cake is a no-bake, layered dessert featuring crisp matzo sheets soaked in sweetened coffee, layered with a whipped cream and instant vanilla pudding mixture, and topped with shaved semi-sweet chocolate. Chilled overnight, this indulgent treat softens to a perfect creamy texture, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Matzo and Coffee
- 6-8 sheets plain matzo
- 1½ cups strong coffee, cooled
- 2 tablespoons sugar for coffee
Cream Mixture
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
Topping
- 4 oz semi-sweet chocolate, finely shaved or grated
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Mixture: Mix the cooled strong coffee with 2 tablespoons of sugar in a shallow dish, stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved to create a sweetened coffee soak.
- Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks begin to form, signaling the cream is beginning to thicken but still pliable.
- Add Pudding and Sugar: Incorporate the instant vanilla pudding mix and powdered sugar into the whipped cream. Continue whipping until stiff peaks form, resulting in a thick and fluffy pudding-cream mixture.
- Layer Matzo and Cream – First Layer: Quickly dip one sheet of matzo into the sweetened coffee for about 2-3 seconds, ensuring it absorbs moisture but does not become soggy. Place it in the bottom of a baking dish, breaking pieces if necessary to fit evenly.
- Spread Cream Mixture: Evenly spread one-fifth of the pudding-cream mixture over the matzo layer to create a smooth creamy surface.
- Repeat Layering: Repeat the dipping of matzo sheets in coffee and layering with the pudding-cream mixture until you have 5 layers of matzo and 5 layers of cream, finishing with the cream layer on top.
- Add Chocolate Topping: Generously sprinkle the finely shaved or grated semi-sweet chocolate over the topmost cream layer to add a rich finishing touch.
- Refrigerate: Cover the dish securely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld and the matzo to soften.
- Bring to Room Temperature: Before serving, let the cake stand at room temperature for about 15 minutes to soften slightly, enhancing the texture and flavor.
- Serve: Cut the icebox cake into squares and serve chilled for a deliciously creamy and layered dessert experience.
Notes
- Do not soak matzo sheets too long in coffee to avoid excessive sogginess.
- The cake improves in flavor and texture when refrigerated overnight.
- Use strong brewed coffee for a rich flavor contrast with the creamy layers.
- Ensure whipped cream reaches stiff peaks for stability in layering.
- This dessert is naturally gluten-free if using gluten-free matzo.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Jewish