Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake

Published: June 4, 2025

by Sofia

Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that impresses with its unique combination of salty Ritz crackers, rich salted caramel, and creamy cheese layers. This cake is perfect for various occasions, from family gatherings to holiday celebrations. Its standout quality lies in the effortless preparation and the mouthwatering flavor that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No Baking Required: This recipe saves time and effort, making it ideal for busy days.
Irresistible Flavor Combination: The blend of salty and sweet creates a dessert that tantalizes your taste buds.
Versatile for Any Occasion: Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or simply a treat at home.
Easy to Customize: Feel free to add toppings like nuts or fruits to suit your preferences.
Satisfies Sweet Cravings: Indulge in a rich dessert without the fuss of traditional baking.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. These items will help ensure your cake comes out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Mixing bowls
Medium saucepan
Whisk
8×8-inch baking dish
Plastic wrap
Hand mixer

Importance of Each Tool

Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
Medium saucepan: Perfect for cooking the caramel sauce evenly.
Hand mixer: Ensures your cream cheese filling achieves a light and fluffy texture.

Ingredients

Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake features simple yet delicious 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 Cream Cheese Filling

2 packages (8 oz each) cream cheese, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly

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 1: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the granulated sugar and water. Stir until completely dissolved.
Let it cook without stirring until it reaches a deep amber color.
Carefully whisk in the sea salt and heavy cream. Be cautious as it bubbles up vigorously.
Continue whisking until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in the butter and vanilla extract. Allow to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Filling

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and creamy.
Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fluffy and well combined.

Step 3: 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 at 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 these layers two more times, finishing with the cream cheese mixture on top.

Step 4: Chill the Cake

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours or overnight to let flavors meld and cake set.

Step 5: Serve

Use 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.

Enjoy your delicious Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake!

How to Serve Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake

Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Whipped Cream

Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for a creamy contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.

Drizzled with Extra Caramel Sauce

A drizzle of extra salted caramel sauce will enhance the rich flavors and create a beautiful presentation.

Alongside Fresh Berries

Serve with fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing touch that adds color and acidity.

Garnished with Sea Salt Flakes

Sprinkling a few sea salt flakes on top intensifies the sweet-salty flavor profile, making each bite irresistible.

Pair with Coffee or Tea

Enjoying this dessert with a cup of coffee or tea complements the sweetness and makes for a perfect after-dinner treat.

How to Perfect Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake

To make sure your Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This helps achieve a smooth filling without lumps, ensuring better texture in your cake.
Cool Your Caramel Sauce: Allowing the caramel to cool before assembly prevents it from melting the cream cheese layer, maintaining distinct layers in your cake.
Layer Carefully: Spread even layers of cream cheese mixture and caramel sauce to ensure consistent flavor throughout each slice.
Chill for Adequate Time: Refrigerating the cake overnight allows flavors to meld and ensures it sets properly, making slicing easier.
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality crackers and real vanilla extract; these will enhance the overall taste of your dessert.

Best Side Dishes for Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake can create a balanced meal. Here are some delightful options:

Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness that contrasts nicely with the richness of the cake.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy complement that pairs perfectly with the salted caramel flavors.
Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy chocolate mousse offers an indulgent touch, making for an exquisite dessert experience.
Nutty Granola Parfait: Layering granola with yogurt creates texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.
Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses such as Brie or goat cheese adds savory notes that balance out the sweet elements of the dish.
Coffee or Espresso: A strong cup of coffee or espresso cuts through the sweetness, enhancing overall enjoyment after indulging in dessert.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results.

Skipping the Chilling Time: Allowing your cake to chill for at least 12 hours is crucial. Skipping this step can lead to a runny texture instead of a firm cake.
Not Using Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your cream cheese is softened properly. Cold ingredients won’t mix well, leading to lumps in your filling.
Overcomplicating the Caramel Sauce: Keep an eye on your sugar while making caramel. Stirring too often can cause it to crystallize; just let it cook until it reaches the desired color.
Using Unsalted Butter for Caramel: Make sure you use salted butter in your caramel sauce for that perfect balance of sweet and salty flavors.
Cutting Too Soon: Patience is key! Cutting the cake before it has set properly can make it fall apart, so wait until it’s fully chilled.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

item Store the Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake in an airtight container.
item It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake

item Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn.
item The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place the cake in a baking dish, covered with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warmed through.
Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Heat slices gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making and enjoying your Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake.

How long does the Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake need to chill?

The cake should chill for at least 12 hours or overnight to ensure it sets properly and flavors meld.

Can I customize the filling for my Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake?

Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even different flavored extracts to personalize your dessert.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but this may result in a less creamy texture.

How do I know if my caramel sauce is done?

Your caramel is ready when it turns a deep amber color. Be cautious not to overcook it as it can burn quickly.

Final Thoughts

The Ritz Cracker Salted Caramel Icebox Cake is an indulgent treat that perfectly balances salty and sweet flavors. This no-bake dessert is not only easy to prepare but also versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or fillings. Whether you’re serving guests or enjoying a quiet night at home, this cake is sure to impress!