Today, we’re going to make a Lemon Berry Ritz Icebox Cake, which is a delicious combination of sweet berries, tart lemon zest, and crunchy Ritz crackers. This recipe is based on the famous icebox cakes that were popular in early 20th-century America, when refrigerators were commonplace in most homes. Because of their understated beauty and the miraculous change that occurs when they are chilled in the fridge overnight, icebox cakes are much sought for. In the summer, when the heat from the oven isn’t exactly pleasant, or anytime you need a creative dessert that doesn’t need much effort, this is the perfect recipe for you.
A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream would be the perfect complement to this delicious Lemon Berry Ritz Icebox Cake, but it also tastes great on its own. Pair it with a tart, citrus-infused salad for a welcome change of pace.
Eight servings of a lemon-berry Ritz icebox cake
Recipe Items
2 cups of lightly crushed mixed berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
granulated sugar, measuring 1 tablespoon
2 tablespoons of zest from a fresh lemon
A measure of one cup of heavy cream
Mascarpone cheese, half a cup
sweetened condensed milk, half a cup
Half a teaspoon of vanilla essence
One bag of Ritz crackers, weighing around 200 grams
Leaves of fresh mint, for decoration
What to do
1. Melt the sugar and lemon zest in a bowl and stir in the mixed berries. For the berries to release their juices, let the mixture rest for approximately 10 minutes.
2. Separate a bowl and whisk in the heavy cream until it forms slight peaks. Before continuing to mix, add the mascarpone, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. mix until thoroughly incorporated and smooth.
3. Layer one layer of Ritz crackers in a 9×13 inch baking dish, taking care to break some to fill in any spaces that may appear.
4. Dip half of the crackers into the cream mixture. Evenly distribute half of the fruit mixture over the whipped topping.
5. Spread the remaining cream mixture over the berries, then cover with another layer of Ritz crackers. Finish with the remaining berries.
6. Place in the fridge for at least four hours, preferably overnight, to let the crackers soften and the flavors combine. Cover with plastic wrap.
7. Prior to serving, garnish with mint leaves that are fresh.
Changes and Hints
Toasted sliced almonds or chopped walnuts sprinkled between the layers will lend a nutty taste. For a spicier flavor, you can increase the amount of lemon zest in the filling by one teaspoon or add crystallized ginger, finely chopped, if you want. If you’re trying to cut back on dairy, you may swap out the heavy cream and mascarpone with coconut whipped cream.