Craving a dessert that’s got a little bit of spice, a touch of sweetness, and a whole lot of flavor? Meet the No-Bake Ginger Snap Marmalade Slice—your new favorite treat! It’s got the perfect combination of zesty marmalade and the warming heat of ginger snap cookies, all set in a no-bake dessert that’s as easy as it is delicious. Plus, the best part? It comes together without ever turning on the oven. Trust me, this one’s a game-changer.
Why You’ll Love No-Bake Ginger Snap Marmalade Slice
Spicy, Sweet, and Totally Unique:
This dessert is the perfect balance of warm spices from the ginger snap cookies and the citrusy zing from the marmalade. The result is a refreshing yet cozy dessert that hits all the right notes. It’s the perfect mix of tangy and spicy, and I promise, it’ll surprise and delight your taste buds.
Quick and Easy:
No baking? Yes, please! This slice comes together in just a few simple steps. After some quick assembly, it chills in the fridge, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together. You get a fantastic dessert without all the effort.
Great for Any Occasion:
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, a casual get-together, or just craving a quick snack, this no-bake slice is a showstopper. It’s an unexpected treat that will have everyone asking for seconds—and the recipe!
No-Fuss:
No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients—just a handful of pantry staples that come together into something extraordinary. Even if you’re a newbie in the kitchen, you can make this slice like a pro.
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Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this irresistible no-bake dessert:
- Ginger Snap Cookies: These crunchy, spiced cookies give the dessert its signature flavor and serve as the perfect base.
- Butter: Melted to help bind the cookies into a base and give it a rich, smooth texture.
- Marmalade: Sweet, tangy, and citrusy, the marmalade adds a burst of flavor that complements the ginger snap cookies perfectly.
- Cream Cheese: Smooth, creamy, and rich, the cream cheese helps balance out the tartness of the marmalade.
- Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the filling and helps create a smooth consistency.
- Whipped Cream: Lightens up the texture and adds a fluffy layer to top off the slice.
(Note: Exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.)
Instructions
Let’s get started on this no-bake beauty:
Step 1: Make the Cookie Base
Crush the ginger snap cookies into fine crumbs. You can do this by pulsing them in a food processor or placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing them with a rolling pin. Melt the butter and mix it with the cookie crumbs. Press this mixture into the bottom of a greased or lined 9-inch pan, creating an even, compact layer. Chill in the fridge for about 15 minutes to set.
Step 2: Make the Marmalade Filling
In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the marmalade and powdered sugar, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth. This filling will be creamy and slightly tangy, with just the right amount of sweetness from the marmalade.
Step 3: Assemble the Slice
Once the cookie base has chilled and set, spread the marmalade filling over the top evenly. Smooth it out with a spatula so the layers are uniform.
Step 4: Whip the Cream
In a separate bowl, whip the cream until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the marmalade filling, smoothing it out gently.
Step 5: Chill and Set
Pop the pan in the fridge and let it chill for at least 3-4 hours, or overnight if you can wait that long. The longer it chills, the better the flavors will meld together, and the firmer it will set.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
When you’re ready, remove the slice from the fridge, cut it into squares or rectangles, and serve chilled. This dessert is as refreshing as it is indulgent, and the flavor will blow you away.
How to Serve No-Bake Ginger Snap Marmalade Slice
- Perfect for Tea Time: Pair this slice with a nice cup of tea for an afternoon treat. The zingy marmalade and ginger spice are a match made in heaven with a hot cup of Earl Grey or chamomile.
- Holiday Dessert: This slice has a festive vibe thanks to the ginger snap cookies and marmalade. It’s a great choice for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any winter gathering.
- Chill and Serve: This slice is best enjoyed chilled, so make sure to keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve it for that creamy, refreshing texture.
Additional Tips
Customize the Base:
If you’re not a fan of ginger snap cookies, you can substitute with graham crackers or speculoos cookies (Biscoff cookies). Both will still give you a lovely, crunchy base but with a different flavor profile.
Add Extra Garnishes:
Top your slice with a sprinkle of crushed ginger snaps, a drizzle of extra marmalade, or even a few candied ginger pieces for added flavor and texture.
Make It Ahead:
This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time. It actually tastes better the next day when the flavors have had more time to meld, so it’s an ideal make-ahead treat!
No Marmalade? No Problem!
If you don’t have marmalade, you can swap it for another citrus preserve like orange or lemon curd. The tanginess and sweetness will still give you that refreshing kick you’re after.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: 290
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 150mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 20g
Protein: 2g
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 3-4 hours
- Total Time: 3-4 hours and 15 minutes
FAQs
Q1: Can I use store-bought marmalade?
A1: Yes, absolutely! Store-bought marmalade works just as well and saves you time in the kitchen.
Q2: Can I make this slice ahead of time?
A2: Definitely! This slice is perfect for making the day before. Let it chill in the fridge overnight for the best results.
Q3: Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
A3: Yes, you can use gluten-free ginger snap cookies or graham crackers for the base. Just be sure to check that your marmalade is also gluten-free.
Q4: How long does this dessert last in the fridge?
A4: This slice will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge. Keep it tightly covered to maintain its freshness.
Q5: Can I use whipped coconut cream instead of regular whipped cream?
A5: Yes, you can! Whipped coconut cream will work great if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Q6: Can I freeze this dessert?
A6: Yes, you can freeze it! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container, and freeze for up to a month. Let it thaw in the fridge before serving.
Q7: Can I add fruit to the layers?
A7: Yes! You can add fresh berries or thin slices of citrus fruit for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.
Q8: How can I make the cookie base more flavorful?
A8: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the crushed cookies for extra spice. You can also try adding some finely chopped crystallized ginger for an added zing.
Q9: Can I use a different fruit preserve?
A9: Absolutely! You can swap marmalade for orange curd, lemon curd, or any citrus preserve you like. Each will bring its own unique flavor.
Q10: Can I make this in a different-sized pan?
A10: Yes! You can easily adjust the recipe for a different-sized pan. Just keep in mind that the thickness of the layers will change, and you might need to adjust the chill time.
Conclusion
The No-Bake Ginger Snap Marmalade Slice is an unforgettable dessert that combines the warmth of ginger with the tanginess of marmalade in a cool, creamy slice. It’s easy, no-bake, and full of bold flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just indulging yourself, this slice is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!
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No-Bake Ginger Snap Marmalade Slice
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 12–16 servings 1x
Description
This No-Bake Ginger Snap Marmalade Slice is a delightful treat that combines the spicy warmth of ginger snaps with the sweet, citrusy brightness of marmalade. With a simple biscuit base, a creamy marmalade filling, and a hint of spice from the ginger snaps, this dessert is the perfect balance of flavors. It’s quick to make and no-bake, making it an ideal treat for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 1 1/2 cups ginger snap cookies, crushed
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional)
For the Marmalade Filling:
- 1/2 cup orange marmalade
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp ground ginger (optional, for extra ginger flavor)
For the Topping:
- 2 tbsp chopped crystallized ginger (optional, for garnish)
- Extra marmalade (for drizzling on top)
- Fresh mint leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: – In a bowl, combine the crushed ginger snap cookies and powdered sugar (if using). Add the melted butter and mix until the mixture is well combined and the crumbs are evenly coated.
- Press the Base into the Pan: – Line an 8×8-inch square or rectangular baking pan with parchment paper. Press the ginger snap mixture firmly into the base of the pan, forming an even layer. Chill the pan in the fridge while you prepare the marmalade filling.
- Make the Marmalade Filling: – In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the orange marmalade, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and ground ginger (if using), and mix until well combined and creamy.
- Whip the Cream: – In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
- Combine the Whipped Cream and Marmalade Filling: – Gently fold the whipped cream into the marmalade mixture until fully incorporated and smooth.
- Assemble the Slice: – Spoon the marmalade filling over the chilled ginger snap base, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Topping: – Drizzle a little extra marmalade over the top and sprinkle with chopped crystallized ginger, if desired. Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color.
- Chill: – Refrigerate the slice for at least 3-4 hours, or until the filling is set.
- Serve: – Slice into squares or bars and enjoy this sweet, tangy, and spiced treat!
Notes
- If you prefer a stronger ginger flavor, add a bit more ground ginger to the filling.
- For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, to the base before pressing it into the pan.
- This dessert can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3-4 hours
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of the recipe)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 45mg