Betty'S Icebox Cake

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

A creamy, fruity icebox cake with marshmallows, bananas, pineapple, and whipped cream, layered with vanilla wafers for a delightful no-bake dessert perfect for warm days or gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. marshmallows
  • 2 small cans crushed pineapple
  • 1 pint whipping cream
  • 2 bananas
  • vanilla wafers

Instructions

  1. Melt marshmallows in pineapple juice in the top of a double boiler.
  2. Let the mixture congeal and cool slightly.
  3. Add bananas, pineapple, and whipped cream to the melted marshmallows and mix well.
  4. Line a 13 x 9 x 2-inch pan with whole vanilla wafers.
  5. Pour the filling into the prepared pan over the wafers.
  6. Sprinkle the top with vanilla wafer crumbs.
  7. Refrigerate until set before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier texture, consider using homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought. If marshmallows are hard to find, you can substitute with a marshmallow fluff. To add a twist, mix in some chopped nuts or shredded coconut. For extra flavor, a splash of vanilla extract can enhance the taste. Be sure to let the marshmallows cool slightly to prevent the whipped cream from melting.

Serving Suggestions

This icebox cake is best served chilled, making it a perfect dessert for warm days. For added indulgence, top with fresh fruit like strawberries or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It pairs beautifully with Yummy Sundaes or can be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee for a delightful treat after dinner.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If the cake becomes too soft, you can serve it chilled to maintain its structure. It's not recommended to freeze this cake as the texture of the bananas and whipped cream may change upon thawing.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Betty'S Icebox Cake contains roughly 1438 calories, with 22g protein, 258g carbohydrates, and 37g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (198% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (154% of the Daily Value), and calcium (63% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1420mg per serving (62% of the Daily Value).

1438 kcal 72% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 21.6g 43% DV
Total Fat 37.2g 48% DV
Carbs 257.9g 94% DV
Fiber 13.8g 49% DV
Sugar 116.9g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1420.2mg 62% DV
Potassium 999.6mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 93.3mg 31% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1388.2mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 56.1mg 62% DV
Vitamin D 9.1mcg 46% DV
Calcium 824.9mg 63% DV
Iron 35.6mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk

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 make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to serve. Just ensure it's well-covered to maintain freshness. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when served the next day.

What can I substitute for bananas?

If you're not a fan of bananas, you can replace them with diced strawberries or peaches for a fruity variation. Alternatively, try using a layer of chocolate pudding for a richer flavor, making it a fun twist on the classic recipe.

Can I use different types of wafers?

Yes, you can use different types of cookies or wafers based on your preference. Chocolate wafers would add a nice contrast to the flavors. Just ensure they are sturdy enough to hold the filling without becoming too soggy.

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).

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