Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful and refreshing dessert with this easy-to-make Banana Icebox Cake. Layers of creamy banana pudding, fresh bananas, and graham crackers come together to create a sweet treat perfect for any occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
Banana Icebox Cake is a crowd-pleaser and requires no baking, making it a convenient and tasty dessert option for busy days or when you want a no-fuss treat. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe is a hit with both kids and adults alike.
How to Make Banana Icebox Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 packages (3.5 ounces each) instant banana cream pudding mix
- 2 ½ cups (612.5 g) whole milk
- 3-4 large bananas, sliced
- 1 container (8 ounces) whipped topping, divided (about 3 cups homemade)
- 3 ½ sleeves graham crackers (about 31 graham cracker sheets)
- Sliced bananas and crushed graham crackers for garnish
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the dry pudding mix and milk. Beat with a hand mixer until thickened, about 2 minutes.
- Gently fold in ½ cup of whipped topping until well combined.
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of graham crackers to cover the bottom.
- Top the graham crackers with a layer of sliced bananas.
- Spread one-third of the pudding mixture evenly over the bananas.
- Add another layer of graham crackers, banana slices, and another 1/3 of the pudding mixture. Repeat with a final layer.
- Finish with a layer of graham crackers.
- Spread the remaining whipped topping evenly over the top layer of graham crackers.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- When ready to serve, garnish with extra sliced bananas and crushed graham crackers.
How to Serve Banana Icebox Cake
Serve chilled slices of Banana Icebox Cake on dessert plates. The creamy texture and sweet flavor make it an ideal treat after a meal or as a light snack.
How to Store Banana Icebox Cake
Store any leftover Banana Icebox Cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh, so try to consume it within a few days of making.
Tips to Make Banana Icebox Cake
- Ensure the pudding mixture is thickened before assembling the layers for the best consistency.
- Use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and flavor in the cake.
- Allow the cake to chill for the recommended time to let the flavors meld together.
Variation
For a different flavor twist, try using chocolate or vanilla pudding mix instead of banana cream for a unique take on the classic Icebox Cake.
FAQs
- Can I use homemade pudding instead of instant pudding mix? Yes, you can prepare your own pudding mixture from scratch if desired.
- Can I substitute the graham crackers with another type of cookie? Yes, you can try using vanilla wafers or even shortbread cookies for a different flavor profile.
- Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake for 4 hours, or can it be served sooner? Chilling the cake allows the flavors to meld together, but you can serve it after 2-3 hours if needed.
