Pineapple Refrigerator Cake

Prep: 20 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A delicious no-bake dessert featuring layers of vanilla wafer crumbs, creamy pineapple filling, whipped cream, nuts, and a hint of sweetness. Perfect for summer gatherings or casual get-togethers, this refreshing refrigerator cake combines fruity flavors with a crunchy texture, delighting guests with its simplicity and irresistible taste.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb. vanilla wafers
  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 cup chopped nuts
  • 1/2 pint whipping cream
  • 1 can (9 oz.) crushed pineapple

Instructions

  1. Make crumbs of vanilla wafers.
  2. Place half of the wafer crumbs in the bottom of a buttered pan to form the first layer.
  3. Cream butter and powdered sugar together until smooth.
  4. Add eggs, one at a time, and beat until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  5. Pour the egg and sugar mixture over the wafer crumbs in the pan.
  6. Whip the cream until stiff peaks form.
  7. Add crushed pineapple and chopped nuts to the whipped cream and fold gently.
  8. Pour the pineapple mixture over the first layer in the pan.
  9. Cover with the remaining wafer crumbs to form the top layer.
  10. Refrigerate overnight to set before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese in place of some butter. You can substitute the vanilla wafers with graham crackers for a different flavor. Ensure the whipping cream is very cold before whipping for better volume. If you prefer a tropical twist, add coconut flakes to the pineapple mixture. This dish is perfect for hot summer days or as a refreshing dessert after hearty meals like Macaroni And Cheese And Spam Casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled, garnished with additional chopped nuts or a sprig of mint for a pop of color. This dessert pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a delightful summer gathering, consider serving it alongside Spooky Pudding or other light desserts. It’s an excellent choice for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can be made in advance.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The layers may soften over time, but the flavors will meld beautifully. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped cream and pineapple can change. If needed, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before serving to soften slightly.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pineapple Refrigerator Cake contains roughly 846 calories, with 5g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value) and protein (10% of the Daily Value).

846 kcal 42% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.9g 10% DV
Total Fat 51.8g 66% DV
Carbs 94.5g 34% DV
Fiber 0.6g 2% DV
Sugar 49.5g 99% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 99.7mg 4% DV
Potassium 385.6mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 165.8mg 55% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 128.4mcg 14% DV
Vitamin C 3.9mg 4% DV
Vitamin D 0.5mcg 2% DV
Calcium 79.3mg 6% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
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 in advance?

Yes, this cake should ideally be made a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld and the layers to set properly. Refrigerating overnight is recommended for the best taste and texture.

What can I substitute for whipped cream?

If you prefer a non-dairy option, you can use coconut whipped cream or a store-bought non-dairy topping. Just make sure to whip it until stiff peaks form, similar to traditional cream.

How do I add more flavor to the cake?

You can enhance the flavor by adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cream mixture or by incorporating a splash of rum or coconut extract. Fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or mango, can also be layered for added freshness.

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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