Better Than Robert Redford Cake
Better Than Robert Redford Cake is a creamy, layered dessert combining a buttery walnut crust, a rich cream cheese filling, and a fluffy Cool Whip topping. Perfect for gatherings or special occasions, this no-bake cake offers a delightful mix of textures and sweet flavors that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, chopped walnuts, and margarine in a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 350°F.
- In a separate bowl, cream together sugar and cream cheese.
- Fold in half of the Cool Whip into the cream cheese mixture.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture over the baked crust.
- Prepare the pudding according to the box directions and layer it on top of the cream cheese mixture.
- Add the remaining Cool Whip on top and refrigerate until cool.
Tips & Substitutions
For a nuttier flavor, consider toasting the English walnuts before adding them to the crust. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the margarine with unsalted butter. Use low-fat cream cheese and a sugar substitute to make this dessert a bit healthier. If you're short on time, pre-made pudding can also work in a pinch, although making it from scratch enhances the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Sliced Apples And Dip for a refreshing contrast. Consider serving it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For a festive touch, add a sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top before serving, or garnish with fresh berries to elevate the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the layers intact, cover the surface with plastic wrap before sealing the container. This dessert is best enjoyed cold, so there's no need to reheat it. Just serve it chilled directly from the fridge for the best texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Better Than Robert Redford Cake contains roughly 530 calories, with 8g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (14% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
Absolutely! Feel free to use pecans or almonds if you prefer. Both nuts will add a delicious flavor and texture to the crust. Just make sure to chop them finely so they blend well with the other ingredients.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that the pudding mix is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten. This adaptation will allow you to enjoy the cake without compromising on flavor.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead. Just prepare it until the refrigeration step, then cover tightly and chill overnight. This will help the flavors meld beautifully. Just remember to add the final layer of Cool Whip just before serving to keep it fresh and fluffy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).