Name: Easy Pistachio English Toffee Icebox Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 15
Ingredients: 9 inch angel food cake; 6.8 oz instant pistachio pudding mix; 4 cups cold milk; 8 oz frozen whipped topping; 4.2 oz chocolate covered English toffee

This easy pistachio English toffee icebox cake is a delightful dessert that requires minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, this no-bake treat combines the lightness of angel food cake with the rich flavors of pistachio pudding and chocolate-covered toffee.

Photos of Easy Pistachio English Toffee Icebox Cake Recipe

If you don’t usually keep instant pistachio pudding mix or chocolate-covered English toffee in your pantry, you will need to pick these up at the supermarket. These specialty items add unique flavors and textures to the dessert, making it truly special.

Ingredients For Easy Pistachio English Toffee Icebox Cake

angel food cake: A light and fluffy cake that serves as the base of the dessert.

instant pistachio pudding mix: Provides a creamy, nutty flavor that complements the cake.

cold milk: Used to prepare the instant pudding mix, adding a smooth texture.

frozen whipped topping: Adds a light and airy layer to the cake, blending seamlessly with the pudding.

chocolate-covered English toffee: Sprinkled on top for a delicious crunch and chocolatey goodness.

One reader, Filip Toney says:

This easy pistachio English toffee icebox cake is a delightful treat! The combination of fluffy angel food cake, creamy pistachio pudding, and crunchy toffee is simply irresistible. Perfect for a quick and impressive dessert. My family loved it!

Filip Toney

Techniques Required

How to tear angel food cake: Tear the cake into bite-size pieces, approximately 1 to 2 square inches each. How to prepare pudding: Follow the instructions on the pudding mix package to combine it with cold milk. How to stir whipped topping into pudding: Gently fold the whipped topping into the prepared pudding to maintain its airy texture. How to crush toffee bars: Break the chocolate-covered English toffee into small pieces suitable for sprinkling over the cake.

How To Make Easy Pistachio English Toffee Ice Box Cake

Whip up an easy, kid-friendly dessert with this icebox cake made with layers of angel food cake, whipped cream, and English toffee.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking:

Chill Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 15 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

9inchangel food cake
6.8ozinstant pistachio pudding mix,(2 packages)
4cupscold milk
8ozfrozen whipped topping,(1 tub) thawed
4.2ozchocolate covered English toffee,(3 bars) chopped

Instructions

Tear angel food cake into bite-size pieces (1 to 2 square inches) and place in the bottom of a 9×13-inch pan.
Prepare pudding with milk as directed on the package.
Gently stir whipped topping into pudding, then pour mixture over angel food cake pieces. Sprinkle with crushed toffee bars.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 214.80kcal
Fat: 8.29g
Saturated Fat: 5.01g
Trans Fat: 0.05g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.24g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.41g
Carbohydrates: 31.80g
Fiber: 0.25g
Sugar: 21.47g
Protein: 3.61g
Cholesterol: 26.25mg
Sodium: 350.93mg
Calcium: 116.56mg
Potassium: 129.33mg
Iron: 0.12mg
Vitamin A: 83.81µg
Vitamin C: 0.02mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

To ensure your pistachio pudding mixture is smooth and lump-free, whisk the instant pudding mix with the cold milk gradually. Start by adding a small amount of milk to the pudding mix and whisk until it forms a thick paste. Then, slowly incorporate the remaining milk while continuously whisking. This method helps to prevent clumps and ensures a creamy texture for your icebox cake.

How to Save Time on Preparation

Prepare the pudding: Use an electric mixer to quickly blend the pistachio pudding mix and cold milk.

Use pre-made cake: Purchase a pre-made angel food cake to eliminate baking time.

Quick thawing: Thaw the frozen whipped topping in the refrigerator overnight to save time.

Crush toffee efficiently: Place the chocolate covered English toffee in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin to crush it quickly.

Layer smartly: Assemble the cake pieces and pudding mixture directly in the serving dish to save on cleanup time.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Pistachio English Toffee Icebox Cake Recipe

9 inch angel food cake - Substitute with pound cake: Pound cake has a denser texture and richer flavor, which can add a different dimension to the dessert.
9 inch angel food cake - Substitute with sponge cake: Sponge cake is light and airy like angel food cake, making it a suitable alternative.
6.8 oz instant pistachio pudding mix - Substitute with vanilla pudding mix with pistachio extract: If pistachio pudding mix is unavailable, vanilla pudding mix with a few drops of pistachio extract can mimic the flavor.
6.8 oz instant pistachio pudding mix - Substitute with homemade pistachio pudding: Making pistachio pudding from scratch using ground pistachios and a basic pudding recipe can provide a more natural flavor.
4 cups cold milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk can be used for a dairy-free option, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.
4 cups cold milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a subtle coconut flavor and is a good dairy-free alternative.
8 oz frozen whipped topping - Substitute with whipped cream: Freshly whipped cream can be used for a more natural and richer taste.
8 oz frozen whipped topping - Substitute with coconut whipped cream: For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped cream can be used, adding a hint of coconut flavor.
4.2 oz chocolate covered english toffee - Substitute with chocolate-covered almonds: Chocolate-covered almonds provide a similar crunch and chocolate flavor.
4.2 oz chocolate covered english toffee - Substitute with caramelized nuts: Caramelized nuts can offer a similar sweet and crunchy texture.

Best Way to Present This Delicious Treat

Use a rectangular white porcelain platter: This will provide a clean and elegant canvas to highlight the vibrant colors of the pistachio pudding and chocolate covered english toffee.
Layer the cake pieces strategically: Arrange the angel food cake pieces in a neat, even layer at the bottom of the platter, ensuring they are evenly distributed for a uniform base.
Smooth the pudding mixture: After pouring the pistachio pudding and whipped topping mixture over the cake pieces, use an offset spatula to smooth the top, creating a sleek and polished surface.
Create a toffee garnish: Crush the chocolate covered english toffee into fine pieces and sprinkle them evenly over the top. For added texture, leave a few larger chunks to add visual interest.
Add a touch of gold: Lightly dust the top with edible gold leaf or gold dust to elevate the presentation and give it a luxurious finish.
Incorporate fresh elements: Garnish with a few whole pistachios and fresh mint leaves around the edges to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Serve with a side of elegance: Place a small dollop of whipped topping on each serving plate, and add a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a few pistachio crumbs for an extra touch of sophistication.
Chill before serving: Ensure the cake is well-refrigerated and firm before slicing. Use a sharp knife to cut clean, even squares, and serve immediately to maintain the integrity of the layers.

Essential Tools for Making This Dessert

9x13-inch pan: This is the container where you will assemble the cake. Its size ensures that the layers spread evenly.
Mixing bowl: Used to prepare the pudding mixture by combining the instant pistachio pudding mix with milk.
Whisk: Essential for mixing the pudding and milk together to achieve a smooth consistency.
Spatula: Useful for gently folding the whipped topping into the pudding mixture without deflating it.
Knife: Needed to cut the angel food cake into bite-size pieces.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the 4 cups of cold milk accurately.
Refrigerator: Necessary for chilling the assembled cake for at least 2 hours or overnight to set properly.
Plastic wrap or aluminum foil: To cover the pan while the cake is chilling in the refrigerator, keeping it fresh.

How To Store / Freeze This Dessert

Refrigeration: Once your dessert is assembled, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will keep the icebox cake fresh and prevent it from absorbing any unwanted odors from the fridge. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The longer it sits, the more the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious.
Freezing: If you plan to keep the cake for a longer period, freezing is an excellent option. First, ensure the cake is well-covered with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze the icebox cake for up to 1 month. When you're ready to enjoy it, transfer the cake to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
Individual Portions: For convenience, consider slicing the cake into individual portions before freezing. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. This way, you can easily grab a single serving whenever you crave a sweet treat.
Serving After Freezing: Once thawed, the cake might have a slightly different texture, but it will still be delicious. If you find the whipped topping has lost some of its fluffiness, you can add a fresh dollop of whipped cream on top before serving.
Avoiding Sogginess: To prevent the cake from becoming too soggy, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the pudding mixture before combining it with the whipped topping. This will help maintain the cake's delightful texture.
Garnishing: For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding a sprinkle of freshly crushed toffee or a drizzle of chocolate syrup just before serving. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds an extra layer of flavor.
Labeling: Always label your dessert with the date it was made and frozen. This helps you keep track of its freshness and ensures you enjoy it at its best quality.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A fun fact about this recipe is that the pistachio pudding mix not only adds a unique flavor but also gives the icebox cake a beautiful green hue, making it visually appealing for festive occasions.

Is This Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This easy pistachio English toffee icebox cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With ingredients like angel food cake, instant pistachio pudding mix, frozen whipped topping, and chocolate-covered English toffee, the total cost is approximately $15-$20. Considering the simplicity and the delightful taste, this dessert offers great value. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Is This Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This easy pistachio English toffee icebox cake is a delightful treat, but it leans towards the unhealthy side. The angel food cake, while low in fat, is high in sugar. The instant pistachio pudding mix and frozen whipped topping are processed foods containing artificial ingredients, preservatives, and added sugars. The chocolate-covered English toffee adds more sugar and unhealthy fats.

To make this dessert healthier, consider the following:

Replace the instant pistachio pudding mix with a homemade version using real pistachios, milk, and a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
Use Greek yogurt instead of frozen whipped topping for added protein and probiotics.
Substitute the chocolate-covered English toffee with dark chocolate and chopped nuts for a healthier crunch.
Opt for a whole grain or low-sugar angel food cake to reduce the overall sugar content.

These changes will enhance the nutritional profile of the dessert while maintaining its deliciousness.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This recipe offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors with minimal effort. The lightness of the angel food cake pairs beautifully with the creamy pistachio pudding and whipped topping. The addition of chocolate-covered English toffee adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of richness. It's a perfect make-ahead dessert that requires no baking, making it ideal for busy schedules. Refrigerating it allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a refreshing and indulgent treat. Overall, it's a crowd-pleaser that's both simple and sophisticated.

Enhance Your Easy Pistachio English Toffee Icebox Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the delightful crunch of roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with a tangy balsamic glaze. The slight bitterness of the sprouts perfectly complements the sweet and nutty flavors of the pistachio English toffee icebox cake.

Grilled Peach and Burrata Salad: A refreshing grilled peach and burrata salad can be a delightful contrast to the rich, creamy texture of the dessert. The juicy sweetness of peaches paired with the creamy burrata and a hint of basil will elevate your dining experience.

Prosciutto-Wrapped Asparagus: For a touch of elegance, serve prosciutto-wrapped asparagus. The salty prosciutto and tender asparagus create a savory bite that balances the sweetness of the icebox cake.

Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad: A zesty lemon herb quinoa salad brings a burst of freshness to the table. The quinoa provides a nutty texture, while the lemon and herbs add a bright, citrusy note that pairs beautifully with the dessert.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory honey glazed carrots can be a delightful addition. The natural sweetness of carrots enhanced by a honey glaze offers a harmonious balance to the creamy, nutty flavors of the pistachio English toffee icebox cake.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This

Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Cake: Imagine layers of fluffy angel food cake, luscious strawberries, and creamy whipped topping. This delightful dessert is perfect for summer gatherings and will have everyone asking for seconds.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Icebox Cake: Indulge in the rich flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with this decadent icebox cake. Layers of graham crackers, creamy peanut butter filling, and a smooth chocolate ganache make this a crowd-pleaser.

Lemon Blueberry Icebox Cake: Brighten your day with the zesty taste of lemon and the sweet burst of blueberries. This refreshing dessert features layers of lemon pudding, blueberry compote, and whipped cream.

Banana Pudding Icebox Cake: Transport yourself to the South with this classic banana pudding icebox cake. Layers of vanilla wafers, banana slices, and creamy vanilla pudding come together for a nostalgic treat.

Mango Coconut Icebox Cake: Escape to the tropics with this exotic mango and coconut icebox cake. Layers of coconut cream, fresh mango slices, and graham crackers create a dessert that's both refreshing and indulgent.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your next gathering with Stuffed Mushrooms. These delightful bites feature cremini mushrooms filled with a savory blend of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushroom caps are baked to perfection, creating a warm, creamy center that contrasts beautifully with the earthy flavor of the mushrooms. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a touch of elegance and a satisfying crunch.

Bruschetta: Add a touch of Italian flair to your appetizer spread with Bruschetta. This classic dish features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar enhance the flavors, making each bite a burst of freshness. Perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in, this appetizer is sure to impress.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the zesty flavors of lemon and the aromatic notes of herbs. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, and a blend of herbs such as rosemary and thyme. Grill the chicken until it is perfectly charred on the outside and juicy on the inside. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers are a colorful and nutritious option that can be customized to suit any taste. Hollow out vibrant bell peppers and fill them with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and vegetables. Add a touch of tomato sauce and sprinkle with cheese before baking until the peppers are tender and the filling is cooked through. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors and nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a hearty meal.

Why trust this Easy Pistachio English Toffee Icebox Cake Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful blend of pistachio pudding, angel food cake, and chocolate-covered English toffee. The combination of these ingredients creates a unique and irresistible dessert. The use of instant pudding mix and frozen whipped topping ensures a quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy schedules. Refrigerating the cake allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a creamy, crunchy, and satisfying treat. Trust this recipe for its simplicity, deliciousness, and the joy it brings to any gathering.

If you're curious to try this Easy Pistachio English Toffee Icebox Cake Recipe, be sure to share your experience and ask any questions you may have in our Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cake instead of angel food cake?

Yes, you can use other types of cake like pound cake or sponge cake, but keep in mind that it might change the texture and flavor of the final dish.

How long does this icebox cake need to chill in the refrigerator?

It needs to chill for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better to let the flavors meld together.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Just prepare it the day before and let it chill in the fridge until you're ready to serve.

What can I use instead of frozen whipped topping?

You can use freshly whipped cream as a substitute. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until it forms stiff peaks.

How do I crush the chocolate-covered English toffee?

You can place the toffee bars in a ziplock bag and use a rolling pin to crush them into small pieces.