Description
A classic Southern dessert, Banana Pudding Icebox Cake layers vanilla wafer cookies with creamy banana pudding and whipped topping. This no-bake, make-ahead treat is chilled to perfection, allowing the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld into a deliciously creamy and nostalgic dessert that’s perfect for gatherings and potlucks.
Ingredients
Base Layer
- 48 vanilla wafer cookies
Pudding Mixture
- 2 boxes instant banana pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
- 3 cups milk
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Topping
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
- Banana slices, for garnish
- Additional vanilla wafers, for garnish
Instructions
- Layer cookies: In the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, lay out half of the vanilla wafer cookies in a single layer to form the base of the icebox cake.
- Whip cream cheese: Using an electric mixer, whip the softened cream cheese until it becomes light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the pudding mixture.
- Mix pudding: In a separate bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix and milk until thickened. Pour this pudding mixture into the bowl with the whipped cream cheese and combine thoroughly using the mixer.
- Add pudding layer: Spoon half of the combined pudding and cream cheese mixture evenly over the layer of cookies in the baking dish.
- Second cookie layer: Add another layer of vanilla wafer cookies on top of the pudding layer, then spread the remaining pudding mixture evenly over these cookies. Finish with a layer of whipped topping spread smoothly across the top.
- Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate the icebox cake for at least 8 hours or overnight. This resting time allows the cookies to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Garnish and serve: Before serving, garnish the top with fresh banana slices and additional vanilla wafers to add a decorative touch and enhance the banana flavor.
Notes
- For best results, make the cake the day before serving to allow adequate time for chilling and softening.
- You can substitute homemade banana pudding for the instant mix if preferred.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature before whipping to achieve a smoother texture.
- Use ripe bananas for garnish to add natural sweetness and fresh flavor.
- This dessert should be kept refrigerated and served chilled.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
