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–+ servings
Parade Refrigerator Cake
Parade Refrigerator Cake is a nostalgic, no-bake dessert layered with crushed vanilla wafers, buttery sweetened eggs, juicy pineapple, whipped cream, and pecans. This vintage treat, likely inspired by community or "parade" cookbooks popular in the mid-20th century, combines the convenience of pantry staples with crowd-pleasing flavors. Perfect for summer gatherings or potlucks, this cake is prepared in layers and chilled overnight to allow the flavors to meld into a creamy, fruity, and crunchy delight that’s both refreshing and indulgent.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
Chilling Time 1 day
Total Time 1 day 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 15
Calories 410 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 11 oz vanilla wafers (crushed)
  • 3¾ cups powdered sugar
  • ½ lb unsalted butter (softened)
  • 4 eggs (large )
  • 1 cup pecans (chopped )
  • 1 pint whipping cream (whipped)
  • 20 oz crushed pineapple (drained)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Pan and Base

  • Grease a 10x5-inch loaf pan with butter.
  • Spread half of the crushed vanilla wafers evenly over the bottom of the pan.

Step 2: Make Butter Mixture

  • Cream the softened butter and powdered sugar together until smooth.
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating 2 minutes after each addition.

Step 3: Assemble Second Layer

  • Pour the butter mixture evenly over the crushed wafers in the pan.
  • Top with the remaining half of the crushed wafers.

Step 4: Whipped Cream and Pineapple Layer

  • Fold the drained crushed pineapple into the whipped cream.
  • Spread the mixture evenly over the wafer layer.
  • Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top.

Step 5: Chill

  • Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours before serving.

Tips

  • Chill the cake a full 24 hours to allow wafers to soften properly
  • Drain crushed pineapple very thoroughly to avoid excess moisture
  • Use stabilized whipped cream for cleaner slices
  • Toast pecans lightly for deeper flavor
  • Line the pan with parchment for easier removal
  • Slice with a hot knife for neat servings
  • Garnish with extra whipped cream before serving
  • Substitute vanilla wafers with chocolate wafers for variation

Nutrition

Calories: 410kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 3gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 125mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 1gSugar: 29gVitamin A: 850IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword layered wafers, no bake dessert, pineapple dessert, refrigerator cake, vintage dessert, whipped cream cake
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