Are you craving a delicious dessert but short on time and oven space? Then this No-Bake Nilla Wafer Cake is the perfect solution! This easy recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, creating a creamy, dreamy dessert that's surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to dive into a world of creamy vanilla and crunchy wafers!
Ingredients:
- 1 (16-ounce) package of Nilla wafers
- 1 (8-ounce) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- Optional: Chocolate shavings, whipped cream, or fresh berries for garnish
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your ingredients. Soften the cream cheese and butter to room temperature for easy mixing. This is crucial for a smooth and creamy frosting.
Make the Frosting:
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In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Don't rush this step! A properly creamed base is key to the frosting's texture.
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Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until just combined. Then, increase the speed to medium and beat for another minute until light and fluffy.
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Stir in the vanilla extract and milk until completely incorporated. The frosting should be smooth and spreadable. If it's too thick, add a tablespoon more milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
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To assemble the cake, begin by lining the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish with a layer of Nilla wafers. You may need to break some to fit perfectly.
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Spread about one-third of the frosting evenly over the wafer layer.
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Repeat layers of Nilla wafers and frosting two more times, ending with a layer of frosting on top.
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Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the cake to set. This allows the flavors to meld and the frosting to firm up nicely.
Garnish and Serve:
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Once chilled, you can garnish your Nilla Wafer Cake with chocolate shavings, whipped cream, fresh berries, or any other toppings you desire. Get creative and have fun with it!
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Slice and serve, enjoying every bite of this easy and delicious homemade treat.
Cooking Tips for Success:
- Room Temperature is Key: Softening the cream cheese and butter is essential for a smooth and creamy frosting. If you're short on time, you can microwave them in short bursts, but be careful not to overheat them.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the frosting can incorporate too much air, resulting in a less creamy texture.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of powdered sugar by 1/4 cup.
Variations:
- Chocolate Nilla Wafer Cake: Use chocolate sandwich cookies instead of Nilla wafers for a richer, chocolatey flavor.
- Peanut Butter Nilla Wafer Cake: Add 1/2 cup of peanut butter to the frosting for a delicious peanut butter twist.
- Fruit Filled Nilla Wafer Cake: Layer fresh berries or other fruits between the wafer and frosting layers for added flavor and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 15-20g Sugar: 25-30g Protein: 3-4g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
This No-Bake Nilla Wafer Cake is a perfect example of how simple and delicious homemade cooking can be. It's a quick dinner idea, a healthy alternative to other rich desserts, and easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy!