Black Forest Icebox Cake (No-Bake Magic!)
Layers of Oreos, chocolate pudding, fluffy whipped cream, and cherry pie filling come together in this ultra-easy, no-bake dessert inspired by the classic Black Forest cake.
If you’re a fan of rich chocolate, velvety layers, and fruity cherry goodness, this dessert is calling your name! No oven, no fuss—just creamy, dreamy layers that get better the longer they chill. It’s the perfect make-ahead treat for summer gatherings, holidays, or whenever you need a quick showstopper.
Ingredients
- 1 can cherry pie filling
- 1 package Oreo cookies
- 1 tub Cool Whip (or any whipped topping, about 8 oz)
- 1 package instant chocolate pudding mix (3.9 oz)
- 2 cups cold milk (for the pudding)
Instructions
1️⃣ Whisk the Pudding
In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until smooth. Let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken while you prep the other layers.
2️⃣ Build the First Layer
Line the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with Oreo cookies. Break a few cookies if needed to fill in the gaps and create a full cookie base.
3️⃣ Add Pudding
Spread half of the thickened chocolate pudding over the Oreo layer using a spatula to smooth it out.
4️⃣ Spread Cool Whip
Next, layer half of the Cool Whip over the pudding. Use gentle strokes to keep those layers tidy!
5️⃣ Cherry Time
Spoon half of the cherry pie filling over the Cool Whip and spread it gently to cover the surface with ruby red fruit and syrup.
6️⃣ Repeat the Layers
Add another layer of Oreos, then spread on the remaining pudding, followed by the rest of the Cool Whip, and finish with the rest of the cherry pie filling on top.
7️⃣ Chill & Set
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This step is key! It lets the cookies soften into a cake-like texture and lets all the layers meld beautifully.
8️⃣ Serve & Swoon
Once chilled, slice into generous squares and serve cold. Every bite is rich, creamy, and bursting with cherry-chocolate goodness!
Tips & Twists
- Want to amp it up? Add chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips on top for a fancy finish.
- Swap the Oreos for chocolate graham crackers for a different twist.
- Make it boozy: Add a splash of kirsch to the cherry filling for a more authentic Black Forest vibe.
Whether it’s a potluck, birthday, or a Tuesday that just needs dessert—this Black Forest Icebox Cake is the no-bake hero your fridge deserves! Chocolate + cherries + whipped cream = happiness in a dish.
