Vanilla Wafer Icebox Cake
Vanilla wafer icebox cake is a classic, no-bake dessert that layers creamy filling with crisp vanilla wafers. Chilled to perfection, the cake transforms into a soft, pudding-like texture. Simple to make yet incredibly delicious, this dessert is a nostalgic favorite, perfect for summer gatherings or any sweet craving.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
- 9×13-inch baking dish,
- Measuring Cups
- Spoons
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cream cheese softened
- 1/3 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 5 1/2 cups vanilla wafer cookies about 3 full boxes
- 1 1/4 cups sweetened condensed milk
- 18 ounces whipped topping divided
Instructions
Prepare the cream cheese mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until fully combined.
Add condensed milk:
- Gradually mix in the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
Fold in whipped topping:
- Gently fold in 12 ounces of the whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and fully incorporated.
Assemble the cake:
- On the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, place a layer of vanilla wafer cookies, covering the entire surface.
Layer the cream cheese mixture:
- Spread a portion of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the layer of cookies. Repeat layering with cookies and cream mixture until all are used, finishing with a layer of the cream cheese mixture on top.
Chill and serve:
- Top the cake with the remaining 6 ounces of whipped topping. Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to firm up. Slice and serve chilled.
Notes
One of the best things about this Vanilla Wafer Icebox Cake is its versatility. You can easily make substitutions or additions to suit your preferences.
For a chocolate version, you could use chocolate wafers instead of vanilla or even add layers of chocolate pudding in between the vanilla wafers.
Feel free to play with the flavors to create your own signature version of this no-bake dessert!
If you’re making this cake for a special occasion or want to prepare it in advance, it’s even better the next day.
The longer it sits in the fridge, the more the flavors meld together, making it even more delicious.