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Home / Recipes / Desserts / Passover Matzo Icebox Cake + Video

Passover Matzo Icebox Cake + Video

April 19, 2019 By Jill Selkowitz / 13 Comments Updated August 27, 2023 / As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs I earn from qualifying purchases; see all disclosures.

Jump to Recipe Go to Video

Passover Matzo Icebox Cake with vanilla cream, mocha cake layers and chocolate ganache frosting is a perfect dessert for your Pesach Seder. This recipe can be made strictly kashrut or not.

Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Every year, Jews all around the World, scramble to prepare their homes for Passover. It is a daunting task, yet it needs to be done with meticulosity.

Passover is the major Jewish holiday or “spring festival” where Jews celebrate as a commemoration, led by Moses, of their liberation by G-d of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery.

During Passover, Jewish law forbids the consumption of Chametz (fermented grain products), so Kosher food, which is normally fine to eat, may not fit the guidelines during Pesach. The laws for Israeli, Ashkenazi and Sefardic Jews are a bit different.

Also, many Jewish people raised Reform may not follow strict kashrut and may simply give up flour, bread and pasta type products. Kosher products containing cornstarch like some instant puddings would not be a concern.

 

Cast of Ingredients for Matzo Icebox Cake

Cast of Ingredients for Matzo Icebox Cake

Dessert, yes, you can have your matzo and eat it too….for dessert!

Please make sure to follow your level of kashrut when considering this Matzo Icebox Cake for Passover.

Jump to Section

  • Ingredients for Matzo Icebox Cake
  • What is Matzo Icebox Cake?
  • Can Matzo Icebox Cake Be Made without Cool Whip?
  • How to Make Passover Matzo Icebox Cake
  • Variations for Passover Matzo Icebox Cake
  • Can Icebox Matzo Cake Be Made in Advance?
  • Can Matzo Icebox Cake Be Made Without Canned Frosting?
  • How Do you Make a Kashrut Homemade Ganache?
  • Can Matzo Icebox Cake Be Frozen?
  • Tips and Tricks to Passover Matzo Icebox Cake
  • Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Ingredients for Matzo Icebox Cake

  • Passover Matzo – the box should be labeled for Passover
  • Kosher for Passover Instant Pudding or Jello Instant Pudding
  • Chocolate Frosting – or make it yourself, recipe below.
  • Espresso
  • Milk

 

Dump in Vanilla Instant Pudding

Dump in Vanilla Instant Pudding

Kosher for Passover Instant Pudding or Jello Instant Pudding is mixed in with the milk.

 

Whisk Pudding Until Thick

Whisk Pudding Until Thick

The pudding needs to be whisked well. This Rösle Stainless Steel Flat Whisk makes the task easier.

Chilling the pudding for about five minutes will help to firm it up quicker.

What is Matzo Icebox Cake?

It is a layer cake made with matzo, pudding, whipped topping and chocolate frosting. It needs no baking and is reminiscent of a chocolate coated, creamy eclair.

This idea came from two other of my recipes. A no-bake old fashion sheet cake made with graham crackers, which also requires no baking and my Chocolate Eau Claire Cake (Eclair Cake), which tastes just like a Napoleon.

 

Fold in Cool Whip

Fold in Cool Whip

The whipped topping should be carefully folded in.

Can Matzo Icebox Cake Be Made without Cool Whip?

Sure it can. As you see, this recipe is definitely not from scratch. If you would prefer to first make my Perfect Homemade Whipped Cream recipe (which is Kosher for Passover) and then fold it into the pudding, rather than using Cool Whip (which is Kosher, but not Kosher for Passover), it is absolutely fine.

The whipped cream is a bit softer than the Cool Whip.

 

Espresso Coffee for Dipping Matzo

Espresso Coffee for Dipping Matzo

We like to use Bustelo espresso for a nice and strong flavor. Regular strong coffee is very nice too.

You can even make a larger pot of coffee in the morning and use the extra for making Passover Matzo Icebox Cake.

The coffee gives a nice mocha flavor. Any liquid can be used.

Wine is wonderful in this recipe.

Grape soda, cherry juice, lemonade, plain water, ice tea, anything you fancy.

 

Place Soaked Matzo On Plate

Place Soaked Matzo On Plate

Soaking the matzo helps to open up the pores and allows the pudding to sink in and soften up to a cake like texture.

Various extracts, like almond or amaretto extract, mint extract, orange extract, cherry extract can be mixed into the pudding for various flavors.

They can also be mixed into the liquid too.

How to Make Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

  • For strict kashrut, ensure all ingredients are labeled Kosher for Passover.
  • In a large bowl, mix the pudding and milk together until smooth.
  • Then, gently fold in the whipped topping.
  • Alternate layers of matzo and pudding mixture in a baking dish.
  • Top with chocolate Frosting and chill.

This is just a guide to how you assemble it. The full recipe is at the bottom of the post.

 

Spread Soaked Matzo with Pudding Mixture

Spread Soaked Matzo with Pudding Mixture

Passover Matzo Icebox Cake is so simple to make.

Each pudding layer should have about the same amount of pudding.

 

Cover with Another Soaked Matzo

Cover with Another Soaked Matzo

Keep layering until done!

Variations for Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

The possibilities are endless and they can be customized to whatever flavor you love. Here are some ideas to get you started:

  • Grape Wine Matzo Icebox Cake – Use wine or grape juice instead of coffee.
  • Black and White Matzo Icebox Cake – use one box of vanilla and one box of chocolate and alternate layers. Prepare each box of pudding separately.
  • Chocolate Peanut Matzo Icebox Cake – substitute chocolate pudding in place of vanilla pudding and top with crushed peanuts.
  • Pistachio Matzo Icebox Cake – substitute pistachio pudding for the vanilla and top with crushed pistachios.
  • Cheesecake Matzo Icebox Cake – use cheesecake flavored pudding in place of vanilla pudding.
  • Sugar-free Matzo Icebox Cake – use sugar free pudding and sugar free cool whip to reduce sugar content.

These suggestions should keep you busy for a while.

 

Build that Matzo Icebox Cake

Build that Matzo Icebox Cake

The pudding will seep into the matzo and firm up.

Can Icebox Matzo Cake Be Made in Advance?

  • Yes, definitely.
  • Matzo Icebox cake needs to be made a day in advance.

It needs to be covered with a cling wrap to keep in the moisture.

 

Stir Warm Chocolate Frosting

Stir Warm Chocolate Frosting

Microwave the chocolate frosting just a bit, so that it can be stirred.

The whipped frosting should be easy to spread, but still very thick. Be careful not to get it hot.

 

Pour Chocolate Frosting Over Cake

Pour Chocolate Frosting Over Cake

The frosting should be soft enough to stir, but not liquid. Be careful not to heat for too long.

Can Matzo Icebox Cake Be Made Without Canned Frosting?

  • Yes, definitely it can.
  • Store bought chocolate frosting works really well, but since it is not Kosher for Passover some of you may want to make your own
  • Just about 20  seconds in the microwave, a good stir and it is perfect for spreading.

How Do you Make a Kashrut Homemade Ganache?

Use this easy 3 ingredient ganache recipe. It’s delish and super quick.

  • 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso granules

Combine all ingredients in a double-boiler and whisk until smooth. Then, wait a few minutes to cool and pour over Passover Matzo Icebox Cake.

 

Place Cake in Refrigerator Overnight

Place Cake in Refrigerator Overnight

Another way to make Passover Matzo Icebox Cake is to use a 13×9 glass pan.

Then just pour the frosting over the top and spread. It is actually much easier to use the larger pan and my preferred method.

I am not the best at cake decoration and just pouring it over the whole pan is easier for me. But, i wanted you to see the layers.

Can Matzo Icebox Cake Be Frozen?

  • It can!
  • Wrap it tightly in foil and store in a baggie or FoodSaver bag and pop it in the freezer.
  • Allow the cake to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

 

Cutting the Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Cutting the Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Passover Matzo Icebox Cakes cuts really easily. It is soft and incredibly delicious.

 

Ed Approves of this Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Ed Approves of this Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Such a tall cake and a big bite.

Watch the video below as I walk you through every step and detail of this recipe. I’ve given you a ton of information above, but sometimes a visual of the process helps so you can follow along. I have my own cooking show on my YouTube Channel, so be sure to check it out and subscribe!


Watch my video and then scroll to the bottom for the printable recipe card.

Tips and Tricks to Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

  1. Buy ingredients according to your level of kashrut.
  2. Let the pudding chill in the fridge for about five minutes before adding in the whipped topping.
  3. Prepare the cake at least 24 hours in advance.
  4. A 13×9 pan is the least amount of work for this recipe.

Time for me to taste….

 

Tasting Passover Matzo Layer Cake

Tasting Passover Matzo Layer Cake

This Matzo Layer Cake is so fantastic. It truly tastes like a Napoleon.

 

Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Happy Passover everyone!

Oh, by the way, you sure don’t need to be Jewish to enjoy this wonderful Matzo Icebox Cake!

More Passover Recipes to Make:

  • Instant Pot Matzo Brei {Jewish Passover French Toast}
  • Homemade Pressure Cooker Gefilte Fish {Jewish Fish Balls}
  • Pressure Cooker Passover Vegetable Matzo Lasagna
  • Air Fryer Passover Matzo Taco Chips

There are tons of Jewish recipes on the blog and I hope you will enjoy all of them. Actually, I know you will.

Kitchen Equipment and Essentials

  • J.A. Henckels Classic 8 inch Chef’s Knife
  • Anchor Hocking Glass (Liquid) Measuring Cups
  • Rösle Stainless Steel Flat Whisk– a MUST have, probably my most used utensil
  • di Oro Living Silicone Spatulas Set
  • Pyrex Oblong Glass Baking Dish

Please don’t feel that you need any of these tools to make delicious food. I use high end equipment as I find they last longer, so it is cheaper in the end than having to replace items. Always use the best that you can afford; don’t break the bank!

Caring is sharing! If you would like to support This Old Gal, please share this recipe on Social Media, so that I can continue to bring you more wonderful recipes! 

Here is the handy printable recipe.

Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

5 from 2 votes
Print Pin SaveSaved! Rate
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American, Jewish, Passover
Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Calories: 221kcal
Author: Jill Selkowitz

Ingredients

  • 2 (3.4 oz) boxes Instant Vanilla Pudding
  • 3.5 cups Whole Milk
  • 8 ounces Cool Whip thawed
  • 1 box Matzo
  • 1.5 cups Strong Coffee or Espresso
  • 1 can Chocolate Frosting
US Customary - Metric

Instructions

  • In large bowl combine pudding mix and milk and stir until combined and beginning to thicken.  Let sit at least five minutes in refrigerator and then gently fold in Cool Whip.
  • Pour strong coffee into a shallow square baking dish at least 8 inches.
  • Dip one sheet of matzo into coffee/espresso for 10 seconds and then place matzo onto a plate, an 8x8 baking dish or, if using a 13x9 baking dish, break matzo to fit into a single layer.
  • Spoon 1/2 - 3/4 cup (depends on how many layers and what size pan) of pudding mixture over matzo. Top with another layer of coffee soaked matzo and spread more pudding over the matzo. Repeat until all matzo and pudding has been used, ending with the last piece of coffee soaked matzo.
  • Remove lid and aluminum foil from can of frosting and place in the microwave for 10 second intervals (approx 20 seconds total) and mix well until frosting is smooth.  Drizzle frosting over top layer of matzo.
  • Cover matzo icebox cake with wrap and place in refrigerator overnight.

Video

Notes

How To Make Homemade Ganache

Use this easy 3 ingredient ganache recipe. It's delish and super quick.
  • 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon instant espresso granules
Combine all ingredients in a double-boiler and whisk until smooth. Then, wait a few minutes to cool and pour over Passover Matzo Icebox Cake.
 

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts
Passover Matzo Icebox Cake
Amount Per Serving
Calories 221 Calories from Fat 81
% Daily Value*
Fat 9g14%
Saturated Fat 3g19%
Cholesterol 10mg3%
Sodium 113mg5%
Potassium 188mg5%
Carbohydrates 32g11%
Fiber 0g0%
Sugar 28g31%
Protein 3g6%
Vitamin A 150IU3%
Calcium 104mg10%
Iron 0.6mg3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Tried this recipe?Mention @ThisOldGalCooks or tag #thisoldgalcooks!
© ThisOldGal.com - Sharing the recipe link to any of my recipes posts are both encouraged and appreciated. Unauthorized and improperly attributed or non-attributed use of this material, including screen shots, copy/paste of full recipes to any social media site, website, mobile application or service (e.g., copymethat, recipe keeper, pepper) or cookbook, without the requisite attribution or otherwise with express written permission from Jill Selkowitz is strictly prohibited. You may share a photo with a link back instead.

Pin this Passover Matzo Icebox Cake

Passover Matzo Icebox Layer Cake

Passover Matzo Icebox Layer Cake

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  • 152

April 19, 2019

About Jill Selkowitz

Hi, I'm Jill. I'm a mom to Tonkinese cats and enjoy sharing restaurant quality meals, easily made at home. With my easy step by step photos and directions, new cooks will be able to follow along and cook like rock stars.

Comments

  1. Cathy says

    April 3, 2022 at 11:03 am

    My husband does not like coffee flavor. What can we dip the matzah in as a replacement?

    Reply
    • Charlie says

      April 9, 2022 at 1:14 pm

      Hi,

      Jill suggested other flavour liquids… reread the recipe text, not just the recipe…

      Reply
  2. Knaidle says

    April 2, 2022 at 11:23 pm

    Hi. This looks delicious, andI appreciate that you added instructions to make it kosher for Pesach. Just to let you know: “kashrut” is a noun meaning the whole system for keeping kosher. “Kosher” is the descriptive term. ” To make this recipe kosher” or” To make this recipe conform to the laws of kadhrut.”

    Reply
  3. Elaine says

    March 20, 2022 at 3:01 pm

    Can you make it parve?

    Reply
    • Jill Selkowitz says

      March 23, 2022 at 3:56 pm

      Yes.

      Reply
  4. Malkah Livneh says

    February 15, 2022 at 10:41 am

    This looks amazing! We don’t have Cool Whip in Israel but we do have Kosher for Passover pudding. Look forward to trying this out in about 2 months!
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Jill Selkowitz says

      February 18, 2022 at 4:22 pm

      There is a powdered whip topping you can make too and then add it. I think that is sold in Israel. Thank you! Good Shabbos. Jill

      Reply
  5. Maria Munson says

    September 5, 2019 at 4:45 pm

    5 stars
    Looks DELICIOUS! So, can I assembly it in an 8×8 like shown in the final pic? I’m not a coffee drinker but my son is, so we have a Keurig. Can I brew regular coffee in Keurig and use? What else could I use instead of coffee?

    Thanks!!!!!!!!!!! LOVE your assistant in the video

    Reply
    • Jill Selkowitz says

      September 5, 2019 at 6:55 pm

      Thank you so much, Maria. He is such a great help. You can brew your coffee however you like. The flavor is kind of like a tiramisu. Jill

      Reply
  6. Fiona Manoon says

    April 28, 2019 at 10:01 pm

    Such a delicious cake.
    Found this Recipe quite creative.
    Loved your work.
    I would love to try this out.
    Thank you so much sharing this wonderful recipe.
    Keep Blogging . !!

    Reply
    • Jill says

      April 28, 2019 at 10:46 pm

      Thank you, Fiona. Enjoy. Jill

      Reply
  7. Lynn says

    April 27, 2019 at 12:36 pm

    5 stars
    I love this video and the way you two work together in the kitchen! The matzo icebox cake looks delicious.

    Reply
    • Jill says

      April 27, 2019 at 6:33 pm

      Thank you so much, Lynn. It’s always interesting around here in the kitchen. Jill

      Reply

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