Looking for an easy yet impressive dessert? This NILLA-Almond Crunch Cake is a fantastic choice! With layers of creamy filling and a crunchy crust made from NILLA Wafers, toasted almonds, and pretzels, it combines sweet and salty flavors in every bite. Plus, the multi-colored sprinkle topping adds a festive touch, making it perfect for any gathering. Best of all, this cake requires no baking, so you can whip it up without needing to turn on the oven!
Ingredients
- 50 NILLA Wafers, finely crushed
- ¾ cup slivered almonds, toasted and finely ground
- ½ cup finely crushed thin pretzel twists
- ⅓ cup butter, melted
- 2 packages (8 oz. each) Neufchatel cheese, softened
- 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon almond extract
- 1 tub (8 oz.) frozen lite whipped topping, thawed
- ¼ cup multi-colored nonpareils (red, white, and green) for decoration
Instructions
Prepare the Crust:
- Mix the Crust Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the finely crushed NILLA Wafers, ground toasted almonds, and crushed pretzels. Pour in the melted butter and stir until all ingredients are moistened and well combined.
- Press into Pan: Press the mixture firmly into the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to create an even layer for the crust. Press the back of a spoon gently to even out the crust. Refrigerate it to firm up while you work on the filling.
Prepare the Filling:
- Mix the Cream Cheese and Milk: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened Neufchatel cheese with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk, continuing to beat until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
- Add Flavorings: Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, blending until fully incorporated and fragrant.
- Fold in the Whipped Topping: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping, using a spatula to blend until smooth and fluffy.
Assemble the Cake:
- Spread the Filling: Remove the crust from the refrigerator. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the crust, creating a smooth layer on top.
- Add the Festive Topping: Sprinkle the multi-colored nonpareils over the top of the cake for a fun, festive look. The red, white, and green colors make it especially suitable for holiday gatherings!
- Chill: Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2-3 hours, or until fully set.
Serve:
- Slice and Enjoy: Once chilled, slice the NILLA-Almond Crunch Cake into squares and serve. Each piece will have a delightful balance of creamy and crunchy textures with sweet, salty, and nutty flavors.
Conclusion
This NILLA-Almond Crunch Cake is a wonderful dessert for any occasion, bringing together layers of creamy filling and a satisfyingly crunchy crust. The festive nonpareils add a touch of fun and color, making it perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just as a special treat. It’s easy to make, requires no baking, and will be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Enjoy each deliciously sweet and crunchy bite!