Description
Cool banana icebox cake offers sweet layers of creamy pudding and fresh banana slices nestled between graham crackers. Chilled dessert delivers classic comfort with minimal effort, making summer afternoons deliciously memorable.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Dairy:
- 3 cups (720 milliliters) whole milk
- 16 ounces (454 grams) whipped topping
Pudding and Flavoring:
- 2 packages (3.4 ounces or 96 grams) banana instant pudding mix
Carbohydrates and Fruits:
- 1 box (14.4 ounces or 408 grams) graham crackers
- 3–4 ripe bananas
Instructions
- Whisk milk with banana pudding mix until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth, creating a creamy base for the dessert.
- Incorporate half of the whipped topping into the pudding mixture, gently folding to maintain a light and airy texture.
- Create the first foundation layer by arranging graham crackers across the bottom of a rectangular baking dish, breaking pieces as needed to ensure complete coverage.
- Slice ripe bananas into uniform rounds, distributing them evenly over the initial graham cracker layer to add natural sweetness and texture.
- Carefully spread one-third of the banana pudding mixture across the banana slices, ensuring an even, consistent coating.
- Repeat the layering process by adding another set of graham crackers, followed by banana slices and pudding mixture, building delicious depth in the dessert.
- Complete the final layer with graham crackers, making sure to cover the entire surface completely.
- Top the cake with remaining whipped topping, smoothing it across the surface to create a pristine, creamy finish.
- Seal the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of 4-6 hours, allowing the layers to meld and graham crackers to soften.
- Before serving, optionally garnish with crushed graham crackers, additional whipped cream, and fresh banana slices for an elegant presentation.
Notes
- Chilling time is crucial for the perfect texture, allowing graham crackers to soften and flavors to blend beautifully.
- Use ripe, yellow bananas with minimal brown spots for the best natural sweetness and smooth slicing.
- Prepare this dessert a day ahead for maximum flavor development and convenience.
- Ensure even layering of ingredients for a consistent taste and visually appealing presentation.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and taste.
- Optional decorative toppings like crushed graham crackers add delightful crunch and visual appeal.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: None
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 270
- Sugar: 20 g
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 10 mg