German Chocolate Icebox Cake features layers of chocolate mousse, homemade frosting, and chocolate graham crackers, topped with whipped cream, pecans, and coconut.
Nothing beats classic German Chocolate Frosting—a rich, creamy caramel blend with coconut and pecans. It’s so good, we often eat it straight with graham crackers (or just a spoon if you’re my hubby)—and that’s exactly what inspired this recipe!
My Favorite Kitchen Tools To Make This Recipe
From trusty pots and pans to handy gadgets, I’ve curated a list of products I use and love.
I love creating new icebox cake recipes, especially since they’re completely no-bake—perfect for spring and summer! German Chocolate treats are always a hit at parties, potlucks, and casual get-togethers.
What is an ice box cake?
An icebox cake is a no-bake, easy dessert made with just a few ingredients. It’s been a party favorite for ages—ideal for potlucks or enjoying at home.
An icebox cake is a simple dessert made by layering cookies or crackers with creamy fillings like whipped cream or pudding. After chilling overnight, the layers soften and the flavors blend into a delicious, cake-like treat.
How to create ice box Cake layers
Other German Chocolate-inspired recipes
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German Chocolate Icebox Cake
Ingredients
German Chocolate Cake Frosting
- 1 cup evaporated milk
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 cup Tate+Lyle® Organic Raw Cane Sugar
- 3 egg yolks beaten with 1 teaspoon water
- 1/2 cup butter or margarine
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup flaked coconut
Icebox Cake
- 24 chocolate graham crackers
- 8 ounce cream cheese
- 1/2 cup Tate+Lyle® Organic Raw Cane Sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 8 ounce container whipped topping
Topping
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup Tate+Lyle® Organic Raw Cane Sugar
- 1 cup toasted coconut for topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans for topping
- 1 cup jarred caramel sauce
Instructions
German Chocolate Cake Frosting
- NOTE: If you do not wish to make the frosting, you can use 2 containers of store-bought coconut pecan frosting as a substitute. I prefer the taste of homemade frosting.
- In a large saucepan, combine evaporated milk and cornstarch, and mix; add in sugar, egg yolks, margarine and vanilla. Cook over low-medium heat until it reaches a slow boil. Stir constantly until thick – about 12 minutes from when it starts to slowly boil. Remove from heat and stir in pecans and coconut. This frosting will thicken up as it cools. Let cool 1 hour before spreading on cake.
Chocolate Mousse
- In a medium mixing bowl, add cream cheese, sugar, and milk, and beat together until smooth. Mix in cocoa and again beat until well combined and smooth. Gently fold in 8-ounce container of whipped topping.
Assembly
- Line a 13×9 inch baking dish with a single layer of chocolate graham crackers. If you need to fill in a few spots, break into small pieces to cover the bottom.
- Divide the German Chocolate Cake frosting in half (I just eyeball it). Spread half of the frosting over the bottom layer of graham crackers.
- Add half of the chocolate mousse to the top of the German Chocolate Cake Frosting and then add another layer of chocolate graham crackers.
- Repeat the steps again layering German Chocolate Frosting and the last half of the mousse. Top with a final layer of chocolate graham crackers.
Homemade Whipped Topping
- Add whipping cream and sugar to a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium-high until stiff peaks form. Spread over graham crackers.
- Top the cake with toasted coconut and chopped pecans.
- Cover with plastic wrap or foil & place in fridge for 2-3 hours to chill and allow mousse to set.
- Cut icebox cake and serve with a caramel drizzle on top. Devour & enjoy!
Pinning.
Made this last night for a gal pal lunch today. Used store bought frosting. It was really good, everyone loved it and I shared the recipe with a few. I plan to make it again for Father’s day and I might try to make the frosting too.
So glad to hear everyone loved it! The homemade frosting is definitely worth it, I hope you do give it a try!
This looks absolutely delicious! I love the idea of combining icebox cake sensibilities with the flavors of German chocolate cake. Genius!
This cake looks absolutely amazing! I must try this immediately!
Looks amazingly delicious! That is definitely a must make!
This is sure to be a hit at the next get together. So easy to make and everyone will love it!
So many yummy flavors, the frosting is my favorite! This did not last long in my house.
This was a dessert that is worth reliving! The layers of flavors and textures were simply irresistible! Planning to recreate this again!
This was incredibly delicious, oh my gosh. Going to be making it all summer long!
As a chocolate lover, I cannot get enough of this cake! Recipe is so simple to follow and delicious!