Name: Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: FOR CRUST:; 1½ cups chocolate cookie crumbs; 6 tbsp butter; For Icebox Cake:; 4 cups heavy cream; ¾ cup peanut butter; ⅓ cup powdered sugar; 27 chocolate wafers; 3 small bananas; fudge sauce

This delightful peanut butter banana icebox cake offers the perfect blend of flavors to indulge your sweet tooth. It's an easy-to-make dessert that combines the goodness of creamy peanut butter, ripe bananas, and a crunchy chocolate cookie crust, all topped with a rich fudge sauce. It'll surely impress your guests and leave them craving for more.

Photos of Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake Recipe

The ingredients required for this recipe are quite common and should be easily available in any supermarket. However, be aware of the chocolate wafers and fudge sauce, as these may be located in different sections. The chocolate wafers are usually found in the cookie aisle and the fudge sauce is typically with the ice cream toppings. Also, get a good quality peanut butter for the best flavor.

Primary Ingredients for Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake

Chocolate cookie crumbs: These are the foundation of your crust. They bring crunchiness and a rich chocolate flavor.

Butter: This will bind your cookie crumbs to form a solid crust.

Heavy cream: A key component of the peanut butter cream, provides a creamy texture.

Peanut butter: The star ingredient that gives this cake its unique and irresistible flavor.

Powdered sugar: This will sweeten the peanut butter cream.

Chocolate wafers: These will add an extra dimension of crunchiness and chocolate flavor.

Bananas: They bring in a fresh and fruity balance to the rich peanut butter and chocolate.

Fudge sauce: This is the final topping that takes the cake to the next level of deliciousness.

One reader, Brock Monroy says:

This peanut butter banana icebox cake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of creamy peanut butter, sweet bananas, and chocolate wafers is pure bliss. The cake is easy to make and tastes absolutely divine. It's a crowd-pleaser and perfect for any occasion. Highly recommended!

Brock Monroy

Techniques Required for Making Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake

Prepare the crust: Combine the chocolate cookie crumbs and butter until moist, then press into the bottom of the prepared pan and refrigerate.

Whip the cream: Whip 2½ cups of heavy cream and powdered sugar in a bowl on medium-high until fluffy.

Prepare the peanut butter cream: In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter and ½ cup of heavy cream. Beat on medium-high until fluffy, then fold the whipped cream and peanut butter cream together.

Assemble the icebox cake: Spread ⅓ of the peanut butter cream over the cold crust. Top with 9 wafer cookies and half of the bananas. Spread ⅓ of the cream over the bananas. Top the second layer of cream with 18 wafer cookies, overlapping them and the remaining bananas. Add the remaining peanut butter cream.

Refrigerate the cake: Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

Finish the cake: Before serving, whip the remaining cream and spread it over the cake. Garnish with fudge sauce and chocolate curls. Serve and enjoy!

How To Make Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake

Layers of peanut butter mousse, fresh bananas, and choco wafers on soft cookie crumbs lend a mouthwatering twist to this peanut butter banana icebox cake.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking:

Chill Time: 8 hours

Total: 8 hours 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Crust:

1½cupschocolate cookie crumbs
6tbspbutter,melted

For Icebox Cake:

4cupsheavy cream,divided
¾cuppeanut butter,smooth
⅓cuppowdered sugar
27chocolate wafers
3small bananas
fudge sauce

Instructions

Line an 8×8-inch pan with plastic wrap.
Combine the butter and cookie crumbs until moist. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan. Refrigerate.
Whip 2½ cups of heavy cream and powdered sugar in a bowl on medium-high until fluffy.
In a separate bowl, combine the peanut butter and ½ cup of heavy cream. Beat on medium-high until fluffy. Fold the whipped cream and peanut buttercream together.
Spread ⅓ of the peanut butter cream over the cold crust. Top with 9 wafer cookies and half of the bananas. Spread ⅓ of the cream over the bananas.
Top the second layer of cream with 18 wafer cookies, overlapping them and the remaining bananas. Add the remaining peanut butter cream.
Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Remove from pan using plastic wrap and transfer to a plate. Before serving, whip remaining cream and spread over cake.
Garnish with fudge sauce and chocolate curls, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 974.10kcal
Fat: 77.20g
Saturated Fat: 38.03g
Trans Fat: 0.37g
Monounsaturated Fat: 23.57g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.21g
Carbohydrates: 66.84g
Fiber: 4.24g
Sugar: 38.22g
Protein: 11.68g
Cholesterol: 186.33mg
Sodium: 392.17mg
Calcium: 110.15mg
Potassium: 487.20mg
Iron: 3.45mg
Vitamin A: 563.68µg
Vitamin C: 4.01mg

Helpful Technique for Assembling Icebox Cakes

When making the peanut butter cream, ensure that the heavy cream and peanut butter are at room temperature. This will help them blend together more smoothly, resulting in a creamier texture. Also, when layering the cake, make sure to evenly distribute the cream and bananas to ensure every bite has a balanced flavor. Lastly, for a more intense chocolate flavor, you can opt to use chocolate-flavored wafer cookies.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dessert

Plan ahead: Prepare the crust and peanut butter cream the day before assembling the icebox cake to save time.

Use store-bought fudge sauce: Save time by using pre-made fudge sauce instead of making it from scratch.

Chill the cake: Letting the cake refrigerate overnight allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set, saving you time on the day of serving.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly crush the cookies for the crust, saving time and effort compared to crushing them by hand.

Slice the bananas: Slice the bananas evenly and quickly using an egg slicer for a uniform layer in the icebox cake.

Substitute Ingredients For Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake Recipe

chocolate cookie crumbs - Substitute with graham cracker crumbs: Graham cracker crumbs can provide a similar crunchy texture and a slightly sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients in the crust.
butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine can be used as a substitute for butter in the crust to bind the cookie crumbs together and provide a rich, creamy texture.
heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream can be used as a dairy-free alternative to heavy cream, providing a rich and creamy texture to the icebox cake.
peanut butter - Substitute with almond butter: Almond butter can be used as a substitute for peanut butter, offering a similar nutty flavor and creamy consistency.
powdered sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can be used as a natural sweetener in place of powdered sugar, adding a hint of caramelized sweetness to the icebox cake.
chocolate wafers - Substitute with chocolate graham crackers: Chocolate graham crackers can be used as a substitute for chocolate wafers, providing a similar chocolate flavor and crunchy texture in the icebox cake.
bananas - Substitute with sliced strawberries: Sliced strawberries can be used as a substitute for bananas, adding a fresh and fruity flavor to the icebox cake.
fudge sauce - Substitute with caramel sauce: Caramel sauce can be used as a substitute for fudge sauce, adding a rich and sweet caramel flavor to the icebox cake.

Presentation Tips for Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake

Elevate the plating: When presenting the Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use a clean, white plate to allow the colors of the cake and garnishes to pop. Arrange the cake slices meticulously to showcase the layers and textures.
Garnish with finesse: Add a touch of elegance to the presentation by garnishing the cake with delicate chocolate curls and a drizzle of decadent fudge sauce. This will not only enhance the visual appeal but also add a layer of sophistication to the dessert.
Incorporate fresh elements: Introduce a pop of color and freshness by adorning the plate with a few slices of ripe banana and a sprig of mint. This will not only add a vibrant touch but also complement the flavors of the cake.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by strategically using negative space on the plate. This will draw attention to the focal point, which is the Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake, and create a sense of balance and elegance.
Precision in portioning: Pay attention to the precision of portion sizes. Each slice of the cake should be uniform in size and shape, reflecting attention to detail and culinary expertise.
Balance the elements: Ensure a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors on the plate. The presentation should reflect the thoughtful composition of the dessert, showcasing the interplay of creamy, nutty, and sweet elements.
Highlight the layers: Showcase the intricate layers of the cake by slicing it with precision. The layers should be clearly visible, allowing the guests to appreciate the craftsmanship and complexity of the dessert.
Emphasize the artistry: Approach the plating as a form of artistry, using the plate as a canvas to create a visually captivating masterpiece. Each element should be purposefully placed to evoke a sense of culinary art.
Attention to detail: Pay meticulous attention to every detail, from the placement of the garnishes to the angle of the cake slices. The presentation should reflect a commitment to excellence and a dedication to the craft of culinary presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making an Icebox Cake

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool used for combining ingredients, whisking, or mixing batters and doughs.
Electric mixer: An electric mixer is a handy tool for whipping cream, beating eggs, and mixing batters and doughs with ease.
Plastic wrap: Plastic wrap is used to line the pan and cover the icebox cake while it sets in the refrigerator.
8x8-inch pan: An 8x8-inch pan is used to assemble and set the icebox cake. It provides a sturdy base for the layers of the cake.
Whisk: A whisk is used to whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar to create a fluffy texture for the icebox cake.
Spatula: A spatula is used for spreading and smoothing the layers of the icebox cake.
Plate: A plate is used to transfer the icebox cake from the pan for serving.
Knife: A knife is used to slice the bananas and for cutting the icebox cake into portions for serving.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake

This icebox cake can be stored, covered in plastic wrap, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The bananas may brown slightly, but the cake will still taste delicious.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 1 month:
1. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring no air pockets remain.
2. Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or freezer bag, removing as much air as possible.
3. Label the container with the date and contents.
4. When ready to serve, remove the cake from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
5. Once thawed, add the final layer of whipped cream and garnish with fudge sauce and chocolate curls before serving.
If you plan to freeze the cake, it's best to do so without the final layer of whipped cream and garnishes. Add these fresh once the cake has thawed for the best texture and appearance.

Interesting Trivia About Icebox Cakes

Peanut butter banana icebox cake is a delicious no-bake dessert that can be prepared in advance and left to chill in the refrigerator. It's a perfect treat for a hot summer day or any occasion when you want a sweet and creamy dessert without turning on the oven.

Is Making Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake Cost-Effective?

The cost-effectiveness of this peanut butter banana icebox cake recipe largely depends on the availability and prices of the ingredients. Peanut butter and bananas are generally affordable, while heavy cream and chocolate wafers can be pricier. Considering the quantity and the fact that it serves 4, the approximate cost is around $20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, as it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a worthwhile treat for any occasion.

Is This Dessert Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This peanut butter banana icebox cake recipe, while indulgent and delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High in saturated fat due to the heavy cream and butter
Significant sugar content from the powdered sugar, chocolate wafers, and fudge sauce
Refined carbohydrates from the chocolate cookie crust and wafers
Limited nutritional value, as it lacks essential vitamins and minerals

The bananas do provide some potassium and fiber, but they are overshadowed by the less healthy ingredients.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace some of the heavy cream with low-fat Greek yogurt or silken tofu to reduce the saturated fat content
Use a nut-based crust (e.g., almond flour or ground walnuts) instead of the chocolate cookie crust to increase the nutrient density and reduce refined carbohydrates
Opt for dark chocolate wafers with a higher cocoa content and less sugar
Reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the peanut butter cream or use a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
Incorporate more fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or raspberries, to boost the vitamin and fiber content
Drizzle the fudge sauce sparingly or replace it with a homemade version using cocoa powder, coconut oil, and a natural sweetener

Editor's Opinion on This Peanut Butter Banana Dessert

The peanut butter banana icebox cake recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The rich and creamy peanut butter cream pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bananas and the crunch of the chocolate wafers. The use of fudge sauce and chocolate curls adds a decadent touch, making this dessert a true indulgence. The recipe's layering technique creates a visually appealing dessert that is sure to impress. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic icebox cake, and its luscious taste will leave your guests craving for more.

Enhance Your Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Tender asparagus spears grilled to perfection and topped with a zesty lemon zest for a burst of freshness.

Balsamic Glazed Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in a tangy balsamic glaze and grilled to caramelized perfection.

Mango Salsa with Cilantro: Fresh and vibrant mango salsa with a hint of cilantro for a burst of tropical flavors to complement the richness of the icebox cake.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: Velvety smooth tomato soup infused with aromatic basil for a comforting and satisfying side to pair with the decadent dessert.

Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips: Sweet and savory roasted carrots and parsnips drizzled with honey for a delightful contrast to the creamy and indulgent icebox cake.

Similar No-Bake Dessert Recipes to Try

Creamy Chicken Alfredo Pasta: This creamy and indulgent pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. The combination of tender chicken and rich alfredo sauce will leave you wanting more.

Mango Salsa Fish Tacos: These vibrant and flavorful fish tacos are a refreshing twist on a classic dish. The sweet and tangy mango salsa pairs perfectly with the flaky fish and warm tortillas.

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This hearty and nutritious salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa. The combination of flavors and textures will satisfy your taste buds and keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Dishes to Serve with This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. The combination of earthy mushrooms, creamy cheese, and flavorful herbs will leave everyone wanting more.

Bruschetta: Elevate your appetizer game with these vibrant and fresh bruschetta. The juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and tangy balsamic glaze create a burst of flavor in every bite.

Main Courses:

Chicken Alfredo: Indulge in a creamy, decadent pasta dish that combines tender chicken with rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce. This classic Italian favorite is sure to satisfy your cravings for comfort food.

Beef Stroganoff: Treat yourself to a hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender strips of beef, savory mushrooms, and a luscious sour cream sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy night in.

Why trust this Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake Recipe:

This recipe is a delightful fusion of peanut butter and banana, creating a luscious and indulgent icebox cake. The combination of creamy peanut butter and ripe bananas offers a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The use of chocolate cookie crumbs in the crust adds a delightful crunch, while the addition of fudge sauce and chocolate curls provides a decadent finish. The careful layering of whipped cream and wafer cookies ensures a harmonious texture in every bite. This recipe promises a delightful dessert experience that will surely impress and satisfy.

Want to share your experience making this delicious Peanut Butter Banana Icebox Cake or discuss variations on the recipe? Join the conversation in our Baking and Desserts forum section!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of cookie for the crust?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of cookie for the crust. Graham crackers, vanilla wafers, or even chocolate graham crackers would work well as alternatives.

Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?

While heavy cream provides the best texture and flavor for this recipe, you can use whipped topping or a mixture of whipped cream and Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! This icebox cake actually benefits from being made in advance, as it allows the flavors to meld together. It's perfect for preparing the day before you plan to serve it.

Can I omit the bananas from the recipe?

Yes, you can omit the bananas if you prefer. You can replace them with another fruit like strawberries or simply leave them out altogether.

How long will the icebox cake last in the refrigerator?

The icebox cake will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure to keep it well-covered to prevent it from absorbing any other odors in the fridge.