Refrigerator Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 60 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Refrigerator Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert featuring layers of angel food cake soaked in a tangy orange and lime-flavored mixture, topped with whipped cream or evaporated milk. Perfect for summer gatherings or casual parties, it offers a light, fruity, and creamy treat that chills to perfection.

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Ingredients

  • 1 pkg. lime Jell-O
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 1 large pkg. marshmallows
  • 2 cups orange juice
  • 1 pint whipping cream
  • 1 large angel food cake

Instructions

  1. Place over heat and stir the marshmallows until they melt.
  2. Let the mixture cool, then add orange juice and whipping cream.
  3. Pour this mixture over sliced angel food cake.
  4. Place in refrigerator until firm, about one hour.
  5. Put the evaporated milk in the freezer about 2 hours before whipping.
  6. Shake the frozen evaporated milk occasionally until it becomes a frozen mush, then whip it.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, ensure that the marshmallows are completely melted before combining with the orange juice and whipping cream. If you want a more vibrant color, consider using a combination of lemon and lime Jell-O. You can substitute the orange juice with pineapple juice for a tropical twist. If you're short on time, you can use store-bought whipped cream instead of whipping your own.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this refreshing dessert chilled, garnished with fresh fruit such as orange slices or berries for added color and flavor. It pairs beautifully with Easy Lemon Pound Cake for a delightful dessert spread. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra richness and presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The cake will continue to firm up as it sits, but it's best enjoyed within the first day for optimal texture. Avoid freezing, as it can alter the consistency of the whipped cream and Jell-O layers.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Refrigerator Cake contains roughly 224 calories, with 4g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value), iron (23% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.

224 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.7g 7% DV
Total Fat 5.7g 7% DV
Carbs 41.1g 15% DV
Fiber 2.1g 7% DV
Sugar 15.5g 31% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 242.4mg 11% DV
Potassium 241.5mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 14.1mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 182.4mcg 20% DV
Vitamin C 26.9mg 30% DV
Vitamin D 1.1mcg 6% DV
Calcium 134.1mg 10% DV
Iron 4.1mg 23% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal 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 use a different flavor of Jell-O?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different Jell-O flavors such as raspberry or strawberry for a unique twist. Just remember that the flavor of the Jell-O will influence the overall taste of the cake, so choose one that complements your ingredients well.

How do I make this cake gluten-free?

To make this refrigerator cake gluten-free, ensure that the angel food cake is made from gluten-free flour or use a store-bought gluten-free angel food cake. Double-check the ingredients in the Jell-O and marshmallows, as some brands may contain gluten. This way, you can enjoy this delightful dessert without gluten concerns.

Can I prepare this cake in advance?

Yes, this refrigerator cake is perfect for making ahead of time! You can prepare it a day in advance and let it chill in the refrigerator overnight. Just be sure to cover it well to prevent any absorption of odors from other foods in the fridge. It will be ready to serve when you're ready to enjoy it!

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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