Lemon Icebox Cake
If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that screams sunshine, then this Lemon Icebox Cake is just what you need! With its creamy lemon pudding and fluffy whipped topping, it’s a treat that everyone can enjoy. This recipe has been a family favorite for years. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or those special gatherings when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen!
What makes this Lemon Icebox Cake truly special is its no-bake nature. You can whip it up in no time, let it chill, and then serve a slice of pure happiness. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a picnic, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this cake is sure to bring smiles all around.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Easy: Just mix, layer, and chill! This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike adore the sweet and tangy flavor of lemon.
- Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this dessert the night before and let it chill overnight for maximum flavor.
- Refreshing Flavor: Perfectly light and refreshing, it’s an ideal dessert for warm days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s gather our simple ingredients! They are wholesome and easy to find at your local grocery store. Get ready to create something delicious!
For the Cake Layers
- 6.8 ounces lemon instant pudding mix (2 boxes)
- 3 cups whole milk
- 16 ounces whipped topping (thawed and divided)
- 14.4 ounce graham crackers (1 box)
Optional Garnish
- Fresh lemons (for slices or zest)
Variations
One of the best things about this Lemon Icebox Cake is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these tasty variations:
- Add Fresh Fruit: Layer in some berries like strawberries or blueberries for added color and flavor.
- Switch Up the Flavor: Try using different flavored pudding mixes like vanilla or cheesecake for a fun twist.
- Make It Chocolatey: Drizzle some chocolate sauce on top before serving for a delightful contrast.
- Use Different Cookies: Swap out graham crackers for digestive biscuits or vanilla wafers for a unique texture.
How to Make Lemon Icebox Cake
Step 1: Whisk Together Pudding Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon instant pudding mix and whole milk for about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps activate the pudding mix, making sure your cake has that wonderful creamy texture. Once combined, gently fold in one container (8 ounces) of whipped topping until smooth.
Step 2: Layer the Graham Crackers
Now it’s time to build your cake! Cover the bottom of a 9 x 13 baking dish with a single layer of graham crackers. Don’t worry if they break; just piece them together until they cover the entire bottom. Spread half of your delicious pudding mixture over the crackers evenly.
Step 3: Repeat Layers
For the next layer, add another layer of graham crackers on top of the pudding mixture. Follow this up with the remaining pudding mixture spread evenly over them. This layering process creates that luscious texture everyone loves!
Step 4: Final Touches
Top off your creation with one last layer of graham crackers. Then use the remaining whipped topping to cover the entire top layer gently. This gives your cake that beautiful finishing touch! Now, cover your dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 hours to let all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Serve with Style
When you’re ready to serve, consider garnishing your Lemon Icebox Cake with fresh lemon slices or zest for an extra pop of color and flavor. Slice into squares and enjoy every bite of this refreshing dessert!
Dessert
Lemon Icebox Cake
If you’re in search of an easy and refreshing dessert that embodies the essence of summer, this Lemon Icebox Cake is your perfect match! This no-bake delight features layers of creamy lemon pudding and fluffy whipped topping, all nestled between graham cracker layers. It’s a family favorite that comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Chill it overnight, and you’ll be rewarded with a luscious treat that brightens any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or hosting friends at a picnic, this cake promises to bring smiles all around.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: none
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-bake
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6.8 ounces lemon instant pudding mix (2 boxes)
- 3 cups whole milk
- 16 ounces whipped topping (thawed and divided)
- 14.4 ounces graham crackers (1 box)
- Optional: Fresh lemons (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon pudding mix and cold whole milk for about 2 minutes until smooth. Gently fold in one container of whipped topping.
- Line a 9×13 baking dish with a layer of graham crackers.
- Spread half of the pudding mixture over the crackers.
- Add another layer of graham crackers followed by the remaining pudding mixture.
- Top with another layer of graham crackers and cover with the remaining whipped topping. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh lemon slices or zest.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
