Nilla Wafer Lemon Icebox Cake
Adapted from the original Nabisco Nilla Wafers packaging. Back of the Bag is not affiliated with Nabisco.
"The cool, refreshing no-bake classic"
The Story
Originating in the mid-20th century as a variation of the English trifle, Nabisco printed this specific no-bake refrigerator cake on Nilla Wafer boxes to promote the biscuit's unique ability to soften into a cake-like texture when layered with citrus curd or cream. It became a staple of American summer picnics due to its 'no-oven' preparation requirement.
Ingredients
- 1 package (11 ounces) Nilla Wafers
- 2 cans (14 ounces each) Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk
- 1 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
- 2 cups heavy cream, whipped
- Lemon slices for garnish
Directions
- 1
In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, lemon juice, and lemon zest; stir until the mixture thickens.
- 2
Fold in half of the whipped cream.
- 3
In a 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of Nilla Wafers.
- 4
Spread one-third of the lemon mixture over the wafers.
- 5
Repeat the layers twice more, ending with the lemon mixture.
- 6
Top with the remaining whipped cream and garnish with lemon slices.
- 7
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the wafers have softened to a cake-like consistency.