Are you looking for new and creative ways to use vanilla wafers in your baking? Look no further! Vanilla wafers are a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of desserts, from classic banana pudding to decadent cheesecakes. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the humble vanilla wafer as more than just a snack-time staple.
From sweet treats like strawberry trifle and chocolate éclair dessert, to savory-inspired pies like pumpkin pie and key lime pie, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your baking. And the best part? Most of these recipes are easy to make and require minimal preparation time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, we’ve got you covered.
Stay tuned for our first recipe feature: [Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers].
Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers
This classic Southern dessert combines sweet bananas, creamy pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers for a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– 12-16 vanilla wafers
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together milk, cornstarch, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil (about 5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat; stir in vanilla extract.
4. Fold in whipped heavy cream.
5. In a large bowl, combine sliced bananas and pudding mixture.
6. Arrange vanilla wafers on top of banana mixture.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None (prep only)
Enjoy your delicious Banana Pudding with Vanilla Wafers!
No-Bake Vanilla Wafer Cheesecake
This no-bake cheesecake recipe is a creative twist on the classic vanilla wafer dessert, requiring minimal effort and no baking time. Perfect for hot summer days or busy schedules, this creamy treat is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers and 1/4 cup of the powdered sugar.
2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add the remaining 3/4 cup powdered sugar and mix until combined.
3. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix until smooth.
4. Fold in the crushed vanilla wafer mixture into the cream cheese mixture.
5. Pour the cheesecake mixture into a 9-inch springform pan or a pie dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight.
6. Release the springform pan sides and slice to serve.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Vanilla Wafer Icebox Cake
This classic dessert is a staple of American gatherings, requiring no cooking and minimal effort. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a show-stopping treat that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and salt. Whisk until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the vanilla extract.
3. Arrange half of the vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
4. Spread half of the whipped cream mixture over the wafers.
5. Repeat layers: wafers, then whipped cream.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Lemon Vanilla Wafer Parfait
This vibrant and flavorful parfait combines the sweetness of vanilla wafers with the brightness of lemon, perfect for a light and satisfying dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla wafers
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh raspberries or blueberries for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whip the heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the vanilla wafers, lemon juice, and salt.
3. To assemble the parfait, start with a layer of wafer mixture, followed by a dollop of whipped cream, and repeat for 2-3 layers.
4. Garnish with fresh berries, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Assemble just before serving.
Vanilla Wafer Crust Pumpkin Pie
Elevate your pumpkin pie game with this unique twist on a classic dessert. A crunchy vanilla wafer crust adds texture and flavor to the creamy, sweet filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed vanilla wafers, sugar, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure to evenly cover the bottom and sides.
4. Bake the crust for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
6. Pour the filling into the baked pie crust and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for an additional 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set.
Cooking Time: 50-57 minutes
Strawberry Vanilla Wafer Trifle
This refreshing dessert combines sweet strawberries, creamy vanilla pudding, and crunchy wafers to create a delightful treat perfect for springtime gatherings. With its layers of flavor and texture, this trifle is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 cups vanilla pudding
– 1 cup sliced strawberries
– 12-16 Vanilla Wafers
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the vanilla pudding to combine.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the sliced strawberries and granulated sugar.
4. Begin building the trifle by layering the Vanilla Wafers on the bottom of a serving dish.
5. Top the wafers with half of the whipped cream mixture, followed by half of the strawberry mixture.
6. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and chill.
Peanut Butter Vanilla Wafer Bars
These no-bake bars combine the classic flavors of peanut butter and vanilla wafers with a gooey, chocolatey center. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed vanilla wafers (about 20-25 wafers)
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine peanut butter and powdered sugar. Mix until smooth.
2. Stir in crushed vanilla wafers and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
4. Melt chocolate chips in the microwave or in a double boiler. Spread over the peanut butter mixture.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Cut into bars and serve.
Cooking Time: None (no-bake)
Yield: 16-20 bars
Vanilla Wafer Tiramisu
This unique dessert combines the creamy richness of tiramisu with the crunchy sweetness of vanilla wafers. The result is a delightful treat that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 vanilla wafers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– Heavy cream, whipped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Dip each vanilla wafer into the brewed coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
2. In a large bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. To assemble, start with a layer of wafers in the bottom of a serving dish. Top with a layer of the cheese mixture, then repeat the process until all ingredients are used.
4. Dust the top with cocoa powder. If desired, top with whipped heavy cream.
5. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! Just assemble and refrigerate.
Chocolate Dipped Vanilla Wafers
Elevate your snack game with this simple and indulgent recipe that combines the classic flavors of vanilla wafers and rich chocolate. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or as a special treat, these dipped wafers are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 20-25 wafers)
– 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of shortening (such as Crisco or vegetable shortening)
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
3. Dip each vanilla wafer into the melted chocolate, coating about half to three-quarters of the wafer.
4. Place the dipped wafers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each cookie.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
Cooking Time: None required! These treats are ready in just a few minutes.
Vanilla Wafer Peach Cobbler
Sweet and Simple Vanilla Wafer Peach Cobbler Recipe
This classic dessert combines tender peaches with a crunchy vanilla wafer crust, creating a delightful twist on the traditional cobbler. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a warm, comforting treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together peaches, sugar, flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Pour in the melted butter and stir until combined.
4. Press half of the crushed vanilla wafers into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with the peach mixture, then cover with the remaining vanilla wafers.
6. Drizzle with heavy cream and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Serve warm and enjoy!
Vanilla Wafer Coconut Macaroons
These sweet treats combine the tender crunch of vanilla wafers with the creamy richness of coconut macaroons, perfect for a snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-15 vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together coconut, confectioners’ sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk and vanilla extract.
4. Add the crushed vanilla wafers to the wet ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Gradually add the dry coconut mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until a dough forms.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Blueberry Tart
This sweet and tangy tart combines the crunch of vanilla wafers with the sweetness of fresh blueberries, perfect for a summer dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed vanilla wafers and sugar.
3. Pour in melted butter and stir until crumbs are evenly moistened.
4. Press crumb mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Arrange blueberries on top of crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Drizzle honey and lemon juice over blueberries.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Key Lime Pie
This refreshing dessert combines the sweetness of vanilla wafers with the tanginess of key lime, creating a unique and delicious treat perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup key lime juice
– 1/2 cup condensed milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together egg yolks, key lime juice, condensed milk, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour filling into baked crust.
7. Top with crushed vanilla wafers.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Pecan Sandies
A classic cookie recipe with a twist, these Vanilla Wafer Pecan Sandies combine the crunch of vanilla wafers with the nutty flavor of pecans.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar and brown sugar. Add crushed vanilla wafers and stir until combined.
3. In a large bowl, beat butter and eggs until smooth. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the wafer mixture to the wet ingredients and mix until a dough forms.
5. Fold in chopped pecans and salt.
6. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Banana Cream Pie
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the creamy richness of a homemade custard, all nestled within a buttery vanilla wafer crust. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a comforting treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix crushed wafers and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Arrange banana slices on top of crust.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour custard mixture over bananas.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
8. Allow pie to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Chocolate Éclair Dessert
A decadent dessert that combines the crunch of vanilla wafers with the richness of chocolate éclairs, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups of confectioners’ sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1 cup of milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup of whipped cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the vanilla wafers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the heavy cream, softened butter, confectioners’ sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture over the vanilla wafers and bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
6. Allow the wafer layer to cool completely.
7. Melt the milk chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
8. Assemble the éclairs by spreading a layer of melted chocolate on top of the cooled wafer layer, followed by a dollop of whipped cream.
9. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Berry Shortcake
This classic dessert combines the crunchy sweetness of vanilla wafers with the freshness of mixed berries and whipped cream. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick dessert fix.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 20-25 wafers)
– 2 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange vanilla wafers on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly toasted and crispy.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy whipping cream with granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
5. Slice berries of your choice into bite-sized pieces.
6. To assemble the shortcake, place a few vanilla wafers on a serving plate, top with whipped cream, and finish with mixed berries.
7. Garnish with fresh mint leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (includes baking time)
Vanilla Wafer S’mores Bars
Elevate your s’mores game by swapping traditional graham crackers for a crunchy vanilla wafer crust. These sweet and gooey bars are perfect for parties or a quick dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crushed wafers and sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until crumbs are evenly moistened.
3. Press the wafer mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval. Spread over the wafer crust.
5. Top with marshmallows and sprinkle with vanilla extract.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your baking game with these 18 delicious recipes that feature vanilla wafers as a key ingredient. From classic banana pudding and cheesecake to creative desserts like tiramisu and eclairs, these treats are sure to impress. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and fruity or rich and decadent, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative with vanilla wafers, and treat your taste buds to a world of sweet delight!
Leave a Reply