A Creamy, Decadent Dessert with Layers of Softened Cookies, Mascarpone Filling, and a Hint of Coffee
This no-bake icebox cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s made with soft cookies, a silky custard mascarpone filling, and topped with cocoa or fresh berries for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
For the Custard Mascarpone Filling:
-
1 cup whole milk
-
2 large egg yolks
-
1/4 cup granulated sugar
-
2 tbsp cornstarch
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 cup mascarpone cheese, softened
-
1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped to soft peaks
For the Layers:
-
1 package tea biscuits (or graham crackers/Maria cookies)
-
1/2 cup milk or coffee (for dipping the cookies)
Optional Toppings:
-
Cocoa powder, for dusting
-
Chopped chocolate or grated dark chocolate
-
Fresh berries
Instructions:
1οΈβ£ Make the Custard:
-
In a saucepan, whisk together the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch, and milk until smooth.
-
Place over medium heat and whisk constantly until the mixture thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
-
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
-
Let the custard cool completely, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
2οΈβ£ Prepare the Mascarpone Filling:
-
Once the custard is cool, gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
-
Then, fold in the whipped heavy cream to lighten the mixture.
3οΈβ£ Assemble the Icebox Cake:
-
Dip the cookies briefly into the milk or coffee, just enough to soften them slightly.
-
Arrange a layer of the soaked cookies in a square or rectangular dish.
-
Spread a layer of the custard mascarpone filling over the cookies.
-
Repeat the layers, alternating between cookies and filling, finishing with a layer of the mascarpone cream on top.
4οΈβ£ Chill:
-
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to allow the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld.
5οΈβ£ Garnish & Serve:
-
Before serving, dust the top with cocoa powder, sprinkle with chopped chocolate or grated dark chocolate, or add fresh berries for a finishing touch.
πΈ Tips:
-
For a tiramisu-inspired twist, use espresso to dip the cookies.
-
Add a splash of Amaretto or coffee liqueur to the dipping liquid for extra flavor.
-
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
This no-bake icebox cake with mascarpone is a rich and creamy dessert that’s perfect for any time you want a sweet treat without turning on the oven! πͺβοΈ