Halloween Icebox Cake Layers

Halloween Icebox Cake has become my favorite no-bake treat to usher in October. Creamy layers tinted pumpkin-orange sandwich classic Oreo cookies for a festive dessert that is always the first thing gone at Halloween parties. This is the cake I make when I want to wow a crowd but do not want to spend hours in the kitchen.

My nephews request this every year and love helping color the whipped cream. The layered orange effect makes it look special with almost no effort.

Ingredients

• Heavy whipping cream: This is the secret to a silky lush filling. Always use full-fat cold cream for best volume
• Vanilla extract: Enhances sweetness and ties together Oreo and cream flavors. Choose pure vanilla
• Powdered sugar: Dissolves smoothly and sweetens the cream without grit. Sift if lumpy
• Orange food coloring: Gel is best for vibrant Halloween orange. Mix gently for even color
• Oreo cookies: Use classic for the signature flavor and crunch. Pick fresh cookies for best texture
• Orange Icing: For decoration and extra pop. Use a squeeze tube for easy drizzling
• Sprinkles: Halloween colors add festive flair. Go with classic orange black and purple or add candy eyes

Instructions

Line the Pan:

Line a 9-inch springform pan with plastic wrap or parchment. Let the wrap stick up an inch above the rim to help lift out the cake later. Gently press to mold to the pan for easier removal

Make the Whipped Cream:

Using the bowl of a stand mixer or a large mixing bowl with a hand mixer whisk the cold heavy cream vanilla extract and powdered sugar on high for about 5 minutes. Watch for stiff peaks that hold their shape this is key for beautiful layers

Color the Cream:

Divide the whipped cream evenly into three bowls. Add orange gel food coloring to each and fold gently. Make one pastel orange one vibrant and one deep orange. Use a light hand so the cream stays fluffy

Layer the Cookies:

Place a single layer of Oreo cookies on the bottom of the pan. Break a few cookies as needed to fill any gaps between whole cookies. This forms the base and adds crunch

Add the First Cream Layer:

Spoon one third of the dark orange whipped cream over the cookie base. Use a spatula to spread evenly right to the edges for neat stripes when sliced

Repeat Layers:

Add another layer of Oreo cookies on top of the dark orange cream. Spoon one third of the medium orange whipped cream over this layer spreading smooth and even. Place a final layer of Oreos and top it with the lightest orange whipped cream pressing gently to avoid shifting layers

Chill:

Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows cookies to soften into cake-like layers

Decorate:

Gently remove the cake from the pan and peel away the plastic or parchment. Decorate the top with orange icing drizzles and scatter Halloween sprinkles for a festive finish

I always buy Oreos the day I make this so the cookies are super crisp for layering—do not use stale cookies or they will turn mushy.

Storage Tips

Keep the cake covered in the fridge so the cream stays fluffy and the cookies do not get soggy. If making in advance wait to decorate with sprinkles until right before serving to keep them from bleeding color. Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days. After that the cookies get too soft for best texture

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want less sweetness use dark chocolate cookies instead of classic Oreos. Swap in any color gel for other seasonal versions like purple green and black for a monster cake. If you are dairy free coconut whipped topping works and pipes nicely for layers

Serving Suggestions

Slice the cake cold for neat spooky layers then let pieces sit a few minutes before eating for the cream to soften. Scatter candy eyes or gummy worms on top for extra Halloween fun. Serve with fresh blackberries or mandarins to offset the sweet and add color contrast

Make this Halloween Icebox Cake ahead for effortless party prep and a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Each slice is a burst of color and creamy crunch—happy haunting and happy eating.

Recipe Q&A

→ How do I achieve orange whipped cream?

Divide whipped cream and gently fold in orange gel food coloring. Create several shades for a festive look.

→ Can I make this dessert in advance?

Yes, it should chill at least 6 hours or overnight. This helps cookies soften for easy slicing.

→ What can I use instead of Oreos?

Chocolate wafer cookies or any similar chocolate cookies work well in place of Oreos.

→ Do I need a stand mixer for whipped cream?

A hand mixer or stand mixer helps achieve stiff peaks quickly, but you can also whisk by hand if needed.

→ How should I decorate the finished dessert?

Top with orange icing and colorful sprinkles for a festive Halloween appearance before serving.