Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This makes it easier to serve clean portions directly from the dish without the base sticking.

Step 2: Build the First Ice Cream Sandwich Layer

Arrange 11 to 12 ice cream sandwiches in a single, even layer across the bottom of the prepared dish. Cut sandwiches as needed with a sharp knife to fill any gaps and create a level, fully covered layer — corners and edges included. A complete, even first layer is what gives the finished cake its structural integrity when sliced.

Step 3: Add the First Caramel and Pecan Layer

Drizzle ⅓ cup of the caramel sauce evenly over the ice cream sandwich layer, reaching all the way to the edges. Sprinkle ⅓ cup of the chopped pecans evenly over the caramel. The caramel will begin to soak slightly into the sandwiches as you work — this is exactly what you want, as it binds the layers together and adds flavor throughout.

Step 4: Build the Second Ice Cream Sandwich Layer

Arrange the remaining ice cream sandwiches in an even layer directly over the pecan and caramel layer, again cutting pieces as needed to ensure complete, edge-to-edge coverage. Press down gently to level the layer.

Step 5: Add the Second Caramel and Pecan Layer

Drizzle another ⅓ cup of caramel sauce evenly over the second layer of ice cream sandwiches and sprinkle with another ⅓ cup of chopped pecans.

Step 6: Add the Whipped Topping

Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly and generously over the second pecan layer, smoothing it all the way to the edges with a spatula for a clean, level finish.

Step 7: Finish the Top

Drizzle the remaining ⅓ cup of caramel sauce decoratively over the whipped topping surface. Scatter the remaining ⅓ cup of chopped pecans across the top. For the most attractive presentation, drizzle the caramel in a zigzag or circular pattern rather than randomly — it takes seconds and makes the finished cake look considerably more polished.

Step 8: Freeze

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the freezer for at least 1 hour before serving. Overnight freezing is strongly recommended — it allows all the layers to freeze together into a completely unified, perfectly sliceable cake. A cake frozen for only 1 hour will be somewhat soft and harder to cut cleanly.

Step 9: Slice and Serve

 

When ready to serve, remove the cake from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for 3 to 5 minutes to soften just enough for easy cutting. Slice with a sharp knife into squares or rectangles, wiping the blade between cuts for the cleanest portions. Serve immediately and return any leftovers to the freezer promptly.