Why You Must Make This Dessert

• It’s perfect for those hot summer days as you don’t need to turn on your oven!
• This delightful recipe comes from the renowned cookbook author Ina Garten and has been a favorite for years.
• If there’s a mocha lover in your household, this is an easy and delectable dessert to add to your menu!

This Mocha Chocolate Chip Cookie Icebox Cake won my heart instantly! It’s a dream come true for my coffee-loving oldest son, whose birthday falls just days after Christmas. And since I’m a fan of mocha, this is the perfect fit for me too! If you prefer cheesecake, try out the decadent Mocha Cheesecake that also hits the spot.

How to Make the Mocha Chocolate Chip Cookie Icebox Cake

1. Make the mocha cream filling. Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat together heavy cream, mascarpone, sugar, Kahlua, cocoa powder, espresso powder, and vanilla until firm peaks form. This will take about 5–7 minutes.
2. Layer the cookies in a springform pan. Start by arranging a layer of chocolate chip cookies at the bottom of the pan. Don’t hesitate to break a few cookies to fill in any gaps!
3. Spread the mocha filling. Use an offset spatula to spread a generous portion of the mocha cream over the cookies. Repeat the layering process until you’ve created five layers of cookies and five layers of the mocha filling, finishing with a layer of mocha cream on top.
4. Chill in the fridge. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
5. Serve your masterpiece! When you’re ready to indulge, run a knife around the inner edge of the springform pan, gently release the sides, slice, and serve!

Expert Tips for the Perfect Icebox Cake

Icebox cakes have a nostalgic flair, dating back to the 1920s and 1930s. The idea of layering whipped cream between cookies has transformed into a classic dessert that’s both easy and delightful. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly:

• The term “icebox” harks back to an era before electric refrigerators, when people used iceboxes to keep food cold.
• One of the most enduring icebox cakes features Nabisco Famous Wafers, stacked with whipped cream in between!
• Keep in mind that icebox cakes require several hours in the fridge before they’re ready to eat, so make sure to plan ahead!
• Pro Tip: Store-bought cookies work best for this recipe, making it super convenient! Test softness by dipping a cookie in milk—it should soften easily.
• Pro Tip: A springform pan is ideal for creating this dessert, as it allows for easy release of the cake once it’s set. Use an offset spatula to evenly spread the filling.
• If you’re only using cookies and cream, consider adding a bit of sugar to the whipped cream for an indulgent touch!
• Break cookies to fit snugly into any gaps when layering; this helps create a visually appealing cake.
• Pro Tip: Use a serrated knife for slicing. Clean the knife between slices for perfect cuts. Enjoy the best flavor and texture within a couple of days!

Frequently Asked Questions