Ritz Ice Cream Cake
A creamy, crunchy ice cream cake layered with Ritz crackers, pecans, and vanilla pudding, perfect for gatherings and family desserts with rich vanilla and nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll Ritz crackers and place them into a 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Melt margarine and pour it over the crackers.
- Add chopped pecans and mix well.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pecan mixture for topping.
- Spread the remaining mixture evenly in the pan.
- Melt the vanilla ice cream until almost soupy.
- Mix in the small box of vanilla instant pudding.
- Pour the ice cream and pudding mixture over the crumb layer.
- Spread Cool Whip (whipped topping) over the entire dessert.
- Sprinkle the reserved 1/2 cup of topping on top.
- Freeze overnight before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using unsalted butter instead of margarine. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can omit the pecans or substitute with crushed graham crackers. To make this dessert a bit more indulgent, try adding a layer of chocolate fudge sauce beneath the Cool Whip. This cake can also be made with chocolate or coffee ice cream for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Ritz Ice Cream Cake into squares and serve it chilled as a delightful dessert. It pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for added flavor. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Russell Stover Candy during special occasions. This dessert is perfect for potlucks or summer gatherings, offering a cool treat on warm days.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the freezer. This dessert freezes well, but it’s best enjoyed within two weeks for optimal flavor and texture. Avoid refreezing after thawing, as this may affect the creamy consistency. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ritz Ice Cream Cake contains roughly 6422 calories, with 56g protein, 315g carbohydrates, and 556g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (140% of the Daily Value), protein (112% of the Daily Value), and calcium (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
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 ice cream?
Absolutely! While vanilla is traditional, feel free to experiment with other flavors such as chocolate, cookies and cream, or even coffee. Each variation will give the cake a unique twist, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences and make it a hit at your next gathering.
How long does the cake need to freeze?
For the best results, freeze the cake overnight. This allows the layers to set properly and ensures a firmer texture when slicing. If you're short on time, aim for at least 4-6 hours, but be aware that the texture may be softer and less stable when serving.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this cake is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it up to a week in advance and keep it frozen until you're ready to serve. Just remember to let it thaw slightly before slicing to make serving easier, especially if it's been frozen for several days.
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).