Light Icebox Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 35 min Cuisine: American

Light Icebox Cake combines fluffy cake, creamy pudding, and tropical pineapple with toasted coconut, perfect for a refreshing dessert that appeals to all ages.

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Ingredients

  • 1 1/3 cups water
  • 3 egg whites
  • 1 package light yellow or white cake mix
  • non-stick cooking spray
  • 2 cups skim milk
  • 1 small package instant banana cream pudding mix
  • 2 (8 oz.) cans crushed pineapple, drained
  • 2 cups frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1/4 cup shredded toasted coconut

Instructions

  1. Combine water, egg whites, and cake mix in a bowl.
  2. Beat on low for 30 seconds, then medium for 2 minutes.
  3. Pour the batter into a 9 x 13-inch pan sprayed with non-stick cooking spray.
  4. Bake at 350°F for 35 minutes.
  5. Cool on a rack before assembling.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider using egg substitute for the egg whites, and for a gluten-free option, replace the cake mix with a gluten-free blend. You can add fresh banana slices between layers for extra flavor. Make sure to thoroughly drain the crushed pineapple to avoid a soggy cake, and if you prefer, you can substitute the whipped topping with a homemade whipped cream for a richer taste.

Serving Suggestions

Light Icebox Cake is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with fresh fruit or a scoop of ice cream for a refreshing dessert. Consider serving it alongside a light salad, such as Wanda'S Pea Salad, for a balanced meal. Garnish with additional shredded coconut or banana slices for an attractive presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the texture, avoid freezing the cake as the whipped topping may separate. If you need to reassemble, simply layer the thawed cake again with the toppings before serving to refresh its appearance and taste.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Light Icebox Cake contains roughly 1124 calories, with 23g protein, 132g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), iron (43% of the Daily Value), and calcium (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 804mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).

1124 kcal 56% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 22.6g 45% DV
Total Fat 55.6g 71% DV
Carbs 132.5g 48% DV
Fiber 2.4g 9% DV
Sugar 79.8g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 804.1mg 35% DV
Potassium 650mg 14% DV
Cholesterol 8.2mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 230.1mcg 26% DV
Vitamin C 19.6mg 22% DV
Vitamin D 2mcg 10% DV
Calcium 520.2mg 40% DV
Iron 7.7mg 43% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk Egg

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 ahead of time?

Yes, the Light Icebox Cake can be prepared a day in advance. Assemble the layers and refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld together. Just make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out.

What can I substitute for the banana cream pudding mix?

If you don’t have banana cream pudding mix, you can use vanilla or even chocolate pudding mix for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can make your own pudding using cornstarch, milk, and sugar if you prefer a more natural approach.

Is there a way to make this cake lower in calories?

To reduce calories, use a sugar-free cake mix and pudding mix, and opt for a light whipped topping. You can also cut down on the amount of shredded coconut or skip it altogether. This way, you can enjoy a lighter version of this delicious dessert.

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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