Sunny No-Bake Lemon Icebox Cake

Lemony desserts always take us to our happy place – they’re so bright and sunny, it’s hard not to feel cheerful while enjoying them. This versatile lemon icebox cake is the ideal treat to cool us down in the summer, or to brighten up a dreary day. It requires very few ingredients and minimal work, and is perfect for anytime we want to whip up a sweet treat without turning on the oven. We love the combination of cool and creamy filling with the vibrant, citrus glaze, and we bet you will too!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Sunny No-Bake Lemon Icebox Cake is a lifesaver for anyone who loves lemon desserts but doesn’t want to spend hours baking. It’s refreshing, creamy, and has that perfect balance of sweet and tangy. Plus, it’s a no-bake recipe, which means you can keep your kitchen cool while still enjoying a delicious treat.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 inch pan
• Parchment paper or aluminium foil
• Large mixing bowl
• Small mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Spatula

Ingredients

Cake:

• 2 packages lemon pudding mix
• 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip
• 3 cups whole milk
• 1 (16 oz) package graham crackers

Lemon Frosting:

• ½ cup (1 stick) butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Line a 9×13 inch pan with parchment paper or aluminium foil, then cover completely with one layer of graham crackers, breaking the grahams into smaller pieces to fill gaps.
2. In a large bowl, combine pudding packets, Cool Whip, and milk, and pour half of the mixture evenly over the grahams.
3. Add another layer of graham crackers, top with the remaining pudding mixture, and one final layer of graham crackers.
4. In a separate bowl, combine all frosting ingredients. Start with one cup of powdered sugar and add more until frosting is at the desired consistency.
5. Spread frosting evenly over the cake, cover, and freeze for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Remove from the freezer. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Make sure the butter for the frosting is softened to achieve a smooth consistency.
• Adjust the amount of powdered sugar to get your preferred frosting thickness.
• Allow the cake to freeze completely to ensure it sets well before serving.

Additional Tips and Variations

• For a citrus twist, add a little lemon zest to the frosting.
• If you prefer a more tart flavor, increase the lemon juice in the frosting slightly.
• Try using different flavored pudding mixes for a unique variation.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This no-bake lemon icebox cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in moderation. While the exact nutritional content may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient brands, it typically offers a satisfying blend of carbs, fats, and sugars.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can make this cake a day or two in advance and keep it frozen until you’re ready to serve.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip? Absolutely, homemade whipped cream can be used, but make sure it’s well-stabilized to maintain the cake’s structure.

How long can I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in the freezer for up to a week. Make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

This Sunny No-Bake Lemon Icebox Cake is the perfect recipe to try when you’re craving something sweet and refreshing without the hassle of baking. We’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Feel free to share your experience and any creative twists you bring to this delightful dessert. Enjoy!