This nostalgic Icebox Cake, credited to Marie Janssen, is a layered no-bake dessert that showcases the convenience and charm of mid-century American cooking. With vanilla wafers, whipped cream, crushed pineapple, and maraschino cherries, it blends texture and tropical sweetness into a chilled treat. Ice box cakes gained popularity in the early 20th century as refrigeration became more accessible, making them a go-to dessert for warm-weather gatherings and holiday tables. The make-ahead nature of this recipe adds to its ease and appeal.
Ingredients
- ½ lb vanilla wafers
- ¾ cup butter (or oleo)
- 1 lb powdered sugar
- 2 eggs
- ½ pint heavy whipping cream
- 6 oz maraschino cherries (small bottle)
- 8 oz crushed pineapple (small can, drained)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (or walnuts)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Butter Base
- Cream together butter and powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs and beat until fully incorporated.
Step 2: Prepare a Lined Loaf Pan
- Line a loaf pan with wax paper.
- Cover the bottom with a layer of vanilla wafers.
Step 3: Build Layers
- Spread a layer of the butter mixture over the wafers.
- Add a layer of crushed pineapple and halved maraschino cherries.
- Sprinkle chopped nuts on top.
- Repeat layers, ending with butter mixture on top.
Step 4: Chill Overnight
- Top with reserved whole cherries and nuts for garnish.
- Refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving.
Tips
- Chill the cake in a loaf pan or square pan lined with parchment for easier slicing.
- Fold the fruit gently into the whipped cream for a more mousse-like texture.
- Add 1 tsp vanilla extract for a richer custard flavor.
- Substitute graham crackers for vanilla wafers to reduce sweetness.
- Add toasted pecans or walnuts for more crunch.
- Replace pineapple with drained mandarin oranges for a softer citrus note.
- For a firmer set, reduce fruit moisture by patting pineapple dry.
- Garnish with additional whipped cream and whole cherries just before serving.
- Add a thin layer of chocolate shavings for a decorative finish.
Nutrition
Calories: 560kcalCarbohydrates: 76gProtein: 5gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 14gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 260mgPotassium: 170mgFiber: 2gSugar: 52gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 1.5mg
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