There’s something undeniably magical about desserts that look as though they’ve taken hours to create—yet come together effortlessly in your own kitchen. The No-Bake Neapolitan Coconut Ice Slice is the perfect example of such a treat. Inspired by the beloved tricolor Neapolitan ice cream, this coconut-based slice boasts beautiful layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry with a creamy texture and tropical twist. It’s a feast for both the eyes and the palate—and best of all, it requires zero baking.
Whether you’re preparing for a summer gathering, a festive holiday platter, or just want a simple sweet fix on a hot day, this recipe is a foolproof crowd-pleaser.
🧁 What Is a No-Bake Neapolitan Coconut Ice Slice?
This indulgent dessert takes its visual cue from classic Neapolitan ice cream—typically divided into three distinct layers of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry. Rather than being frozen or churned, this slice is made with a rich, coconut base that provides structure and flavor. The chocolate cookie base, creamy coconut middle, and vibrant strawberry top make it a deliciously layered experience both in flavor and texture.
Unlike traditional baked bars or cakes, this version stays cool and firm thanks to refrigeration, making it ideal for warmer months or when you’re short on time.
⭐ Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe
- No baking involved: Just layer, chill, and enjoy!
- Visually stunning: The tri-color effect is perfect for parties and Instagram-worthy presentations.
- Customizable: Swap colors, flavors, or ingredients to suit your preference or dietary needs.
- Great for all skill levels: Even kitchen beginners can pull off this professional-looking dessert.
- Kid-friendly and freezer-safe: Make it ahead, freeze it, and pull out slices when needed!
📝 Ingredients Breakdown
For the Chocolate Biscuit Base:
- 2 packets (about 274g) of chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- 60g unsalted butter, melted
For the Coconut Layer:
- 395g can sweetened condensed milk
- 2 cups desiccated coconut
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 2 cups icing sugar, sifted
- Pink food coloring
- 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
🧠 Expert Tip: Use high-quality cocoa powder and natural food coloring for better taste and vibrant appearance.
🍓 Ingredient Swaps and Variations
- Gluten-free? Use gluten-free chocolate biscuits.
- Vegan? Use plant-based butter and coconut condensed milk.
- Sugar-conscious? Replace icing sugar with a monk fruit-based powdered sweetener.
- Flavor twist: Add coffee essence, lemon zest, or raspberry extract to the layers.
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions (With Pro Tips)
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Line a 20cm x 30cm baking tray with parchment paper, leaving some overhang on the sides for easy removal.
- In a food processor, blitz your chocolate cookies until they resemble fine crumbs.
- Add melted butter and mix until evenly combined.
- Press this mixture firmly into the base of your prepared tray using the back of a spoon.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
💡 Pro Tip: Press down with a flat glass or offset spatula for a perfectly level base.
Step 2: Make the Coconut Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine condensed milk, desiccated coconut, shredded coconut, and icing sugar.
- Mix until fully blended and sticky.
- Divide the mixture equally into 3 separate bowls:
- Bowl 1: Leave plain (this will be your vanilla layer).
- Bowl 2: Add a few drops of pink food coloring and mix thoroughly.
- Bowl 3: Add cocoa powder and stir until uniform in color.
🎨 Coloring Tip: Use gel coloring for vibrant results without making the mixture too wet.
Step 3: Assemble the Slice
- Chocolate Layer (Bottom): Spread the cocoa-flavored mixture evenly over the chilled base. Smooth with a spoon.
- Vanilla Layer (Middle): Carefully press the plain coconut mixture on top, smoothing it out evenly.
- Strawberry Layer (Top): Finish with the pink layer, pressing gently and evenly to avoid mixing colors.
🍽️ Pro Tip: Use a metal spoon dipped in hot water to smooth each layer without sticking.
Step 4: Chill to Set
- Place the fully assembled slice in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Once set, lift the slice out of the pan using the parchment handles and cut into squares or bars.
🔪 For clean slices, use a sharp knife warmed in hot water and wiped clean between each cut.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 7 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
- Thawing: Let frozen pieces thaw in the fridge for 2-3 hours before serving.
📸 Best Ways to Serve
- Afternoon Tea: Perfectly sized for elegant finger food.
- Party Platter: Pair with mini cheesecakes and lemon bars.
- Lunchbox Treat: A sweet surprise for kids and adults alike.
- Gifting Idea: Wrap in parchment paper and twine for a homemade edible gift.
🧠 Expert Tips & Tricks
| Tip | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Dip knife in hot water before slicing | Ensures clean, even cuts |
| Use coconut extract for extra flavor | Intensifies the tropical notes |
| Add crushed nuts to the chocolate layer | Adds texture and depth |
| Dust with icing sugar just before serving | Enhances visual appeal |
| Store in individual squares | Easy grab-and-go servings |
📊 Nutritional Info (Per Slice)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 245 kcal |
| Total Fat | 13g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 32g |
| Sugars | 26g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fiber | 2g |
🥥 This dessert is best enjoyed as an occasional treat due to its sugar and fat content.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I freeze the No-Bake Neapolitan Coconut Ice Slice?
Yes! This dessert freezes beautifully. Just make sure to slice and wrap individual pieces to prevent freezer burn.
Q2: Can I change the flavor layers?
Absolutely. Try lemon zest in the vanilla layer, mint extract in the chocolate layer, or even blueberry essence in the top layer for a twist.
Q3: How far in advance can I make it?
You can make it up to 3–4 days ahead, making it perfect for entertaining or meal prepping.
Q4: Is it safe to leave it out at room temperature?
Only for about 2 hours. After that, it should be returned to the fridge to prevent softening.
🧁 Serving Ideas for Special Occasions
- Mother’s Day: Pair with tea and pastel-themed decor.
- Birthday Parties: Customize the top color for a gender reveal or birthday theme.
- Holiday Dessert Tables: Slice into mini squares and serve with peppermint bark and truffles.
- Weddings or Baby Showers: Add edible flowers or gold leaf for an elegant finish.
📌 Pinterest-Friendly Tips
Make your dessert more shareable:
- Use a square white plate for clean contrast
- Top with coconut flakes or pastel sprinkles
- Snap overhead shots for best visuals
- Always include a shot of the full uncut slab followed by one in slices
💬 Final Thoughts
This No-Bake Neapolitan Coconut Ice Slice is more than just a pretty dessert—it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The blend of creamy coconut, rich chocolate, and vibrant strawberry layers offers a nostalgic nod to childhood treats with a grown-up twist.
Best of all? It’s accessible to everyone. No special equipment, no oven, no stress—just layers of joy in every bite.
