Unbaked Icebox Cream
A cool, creamy dessert layered with crushed wafers and pineapple, perfect for hot days and casual gatherings, topped with whipped cream for added richness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream margarine and sugar; add egg, cream, pineapple, salt, and nuts.
- Beat well until mixture is smooth.
- In a Pyrex dish, place a layer of vanilla wafers.
- Add a layer of the prepared filling.
- Repeat layers of wafers and filling until all ingredients are used.
- Cover and place in refrigerator to chill.
- Before serving, top with whipped cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt in place of cream. You can also substitute crushed peaches or mango for the crushed pineapple if desired. Ensure the margarine is softened for easy creaming with sugar. For a nut-free option, simply omit the chopped nuts or use seeds like sunflower seeds as a substitute.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this unbaked icebox cream on its own, or with a dollop of whipped cream on top for added decadence. It pairs beautifully with Grandma's Macaroni Salad for a delightful summer meal. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh fruit like strawberries or mint leaves for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This dessert is best served chilled, so there is no need to reheat. If you prefer a firmer texture, let it chill longer before serving, as the flavors will meld beautifully over time.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unbaked Icebox Cream contains roughly 809 calories, with 10g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2067mg per serving (90% 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 fresh pineapple instead of crushed?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but make sure to finely chop it and drain excess juice to avoid making the mixture too watery. Fresh pineapple will provide a vibrant flavor, though the texture will differ slightly from crushed pineapple.
Is it necessary to chill the dessert overnight?
While chilling for a few hours is essential for the flavors to meld, overnight chilling is recommended for the best texture. This allows the layers to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Certainly! Substitute vanilla wafers with gluten-free cookies or graham crackers. Just ensure that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well, making this a delicious option for those following gluten-free dietary restrictions.
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).