Are you a fan of the classic combination of crunchy vanilla wafers and sweet, creamy fillings? Then you’re in luck! We’ve scoured the internet for the most decadent and delicious recipes that feature vanilla wafers as the star ingredient. From classic desserts like banana pudding and strawberry shortcake to innovative twists like cheesecake bars and tiramisu, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of vanilla wafers. Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or looking for a unique dessert to impress your friends, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Stay tuned for our first recipe, which combines bananas, pudding, and crunchy vanilla wafers in a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite…
Vanilla Wafer Banana Pudding
This creamy dessert combines the comfort of vanilla wafers with the sweetness of ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla. It’s a simple yet impressive treat for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
– 4 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until stiff peaks form.
2. Arrange half of the vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9×13 inch dish.
3. Top with sliced bananas, followed by the remaining wafers.
4. Pour the whipped cream mixture over the wafers and bananas.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dessert is best served chilled.
Chocolate Dipped Vanilla Wafer Cookies
Transform store-bought vanilla wafers into a rich and indulgent treat by dipping them in melted chocolate. Perfect for a quick dessert or snack, these cookies are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 30-40 cookies)
– 1 cup of semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 tablespoon of shortening (such as Crisco or vegetable shortening)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the vanilla wafers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each cookie.
4. Melt the chocolate chips and shortening in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring after each interval, until smooth.
5. Dip each vanilla wafer into the melted chocolate, coating about 3/4 of the cookie.
6. Place the dipped cookies on a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set the chocolate.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-bake recipe.
Vanilla Wafer Cheesecake Bars
Elevate your dessert game with these creamy cheesecake bars infused with the classic flavor of vanilla wafers. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or just satisfying a sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers (about 20-25 wafers)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter; stir until combined. Press into prepared dish.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add granulated sugar and beat until combined. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Stir in crushed vanilla wafers.
5. Pour cheesecake mixture over crust.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until edges are set. Let cool completely before cutting into bars. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Strawberry Shortcake
This classic dessert gets a modern twist with the addition of crunchy vanilla wafers, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped cream. Perfect for warm weather or any occasion that calls for a refreshing treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pint fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
– 12-16 Vanilla Wafers
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
2. Add the granulated sugar and vanilla extract; continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
3. Arrange Vanilla Wafers in a single layer on a serving dish or individual plates.
4. Top with sliced strawberries.
5. Dollop whipped cream over the strawberries.
6. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is quick and easy to prepare.
Vanilla Wafer Icebox Cake
This classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser, made with simple ingredients and no baking required. Perfect for warm weather or potlucks, this icebox cake is a refreshing treat that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the crushed vanilla wafers and sugar.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
3. In another bowl, mix together the mascarpone cheese and vanilla extract.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
5. Pour the mixture over the vanilla wafer crumbs in the large bowl.
6. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
7. Serve chilled, garnished with additional crushed wafers if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This cake is made entirely in the refrigerator.
Vanilla Wafer Peanut Butter Pie
This decadent pie combines the classic flavors of peanut butter and vanilla wafers in a rich and creamy filling, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup peanut butter
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 1/2 cup crushed Vanilla Wafers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter in a bowl until well combined. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Beat cream cheese and peanut butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Pour filling into crust-lined pie dish.
5. Top with whipped cream and crushed Vanilla Wafers.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including chilling time)
Vanilla Wafer Lemon Meringue Dessert
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing twist on a classic lemon meringue pie, featuring crunchy vanilla wafers and a tangy lemon filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers
– 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup meringue topping (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Arrange vanilla wafers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together lemon juice, sugar, and egg yolks until smooth. Add melted butter and mix well.
4. Pour lemon mixture over the wafers and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the filling is set.
5. Top with meringue topping and return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Coconut Macaroons
Elevate your snack game with these easy-to-make Vanilla Wafer Coconut Macaroons, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth. These chewy treats combine the crunch of vanilla wafers with the creamy sweetness of coconut and a hint of vanilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup crushed vanilla wafers (about 6-8 wafers)
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup egg whites
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine coconut, sugar, crushed wafers, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whip egg whites until stiff peaks form. Fold into the coconut mixture until a dough forms.
4. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of the dough onto the prepared baking sheet, about 1 inch apart.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until lightly golden brown. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Chocolate Chip Cookies
Elevate your cookie game with this delightful twist on the classic chocolate chip cookie. Crunchy vanilla wafers add a fun texture to these chewy, chocolatey treats.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 12-15 crushed Vanilla Wafers (about 1 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, then stir in chocolate chips and crushed Vanilla Wafers.
5. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, spacing about 2 inches apart.
6. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Vanilla Wafer Tiramisu
This innovative dessert combines the creamy goodness of traditional tiramisu with the crunchy sweetness of vanilla wafers. Perfect for those looking to try something new and exciting!
Ingredients:
– 12-16 vanilla wafers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Instructions:
1. Dip each vanilla wafer into the brewed coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the mascarpone cheese, granulated sugar, egg yolks, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Soften the butter and fold it into the mascarpone mixture until well combined.
4. To assemble, place a layer of coffee-dipped wafers in a serving dish, followed by a layer of the mascarpone mixture.
5. Repeat steps 1-4 one more time, ending with a layer of mascarpone on top.
6. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (preparation) + refrigeration time
Vanilla Wafer Pumpkin Spice Trifle
This fall-inspired dessert combines the classic flavors of pumpkin spice with the crunch of vanilla wafers, creating a delightful treat for any season. Perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings, this trifle is easy to assemble and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers
– 1 can (15 oz) of pumpkin puree
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of whipped topping
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
2. Cut vanilla wafers into quarters.
3. Layer half of the vanilla wafers in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
4. Pour half of the pumpkin mixture over the wafers.
5. Repeat layers: vanilla wafers, pumpkin mixture, and whipped topping (reserving some for garnish).
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None! This trifle is best served chilled.
Vanilla Wafer Raspberry Parfait
A sweet and tangy dessert that combines the crunch of vanilla wafers with the tartness of fresh raspberries, perfect for a quick treat or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 2 cups fresh raspberries
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the crushed vanilla wafers.
3. Layer the whipped cream mixture with fresh raspberries in a parfait glass or tall clear cup. Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of whipped cream on top.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and chill.
Vanilla Wafer S’mores Bars
Elevate your s’mores game with this creative spin on the classic campfire treat. Crunchy vanilla wafers add a delightful texture to these gooey, marshmallow-topped bars.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup melted butter
– 12-16 vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 cup marshmallows
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
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 graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Add melted butter; stir until combined.
3. Press crust mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Top crust with crushed vanilla wafers.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Remove from oven and top with marshmallows. Return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until marshmallows are toasted.
7. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl; stir every 30 seconds until smooth.
8. Pour melted chocolate over marshmallow layer; let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Caramel Apple Crisp
This sweet and satisfying dessert combines the flavors of caramelized apples, crunchy vanilla wafers, and a hint of buttery crispiness. Perfect for a cozy evening treat or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, and unsalted butter until coated.
3. Transfer the apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples.
5. Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers and brown sugar evenly over the caramel layer.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Chocolate Mousse Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this show-stopping Vanilla Wafer Chocolate Mousse Cake, featuring a moist vanilla cake base topped with a rich chocolate mousse and crunchy wafer crumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 20-25 Vanilla Wafers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch springform pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together egg and vanilla extract. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold whipped cream into melted chocolate.
6. Crush Vanilla Wafers into crumbs. Top cooled cake with chocolate mousse and wafer crumbs. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Cinnamon Roll Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the softness of cinnamon rolls with the crunch of vanilla wafers, perfect for a quick breakfast or afternoon snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together sugar and cinnamon.
3. Dip each vanilla wafer into the sugar mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated wafers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until slightly golden brown.
6. Allow to cool completely before drizzling with cream cheese frosting.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Pecan Pie Bites
Elevate your dessert game with these bite-sized Vanilla Wafer Pecan Pie Bites, featuring the classic combination of vanilla wafers and pecans in a sweet and nutty pie filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
– 1/2 cup of light corn syrup
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup of melted butter
– 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup of chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, and melted butter until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Arrange vanilla wafers on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Spoon a small amount of pecans onto each wafer, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Drizzle the pie filling mixture over the pecans, spreading it evenly to cover the top of each wafer.
6. Sprinkle with salt and additional chopped pecans if desired.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the filling is set and the wafers are lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Key Lime Tartlets
These bite-sized treats combine the crunch of vanilla wafers with the brightness of key lime filling, perfect for a sweet and tangy dessert or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crushed wafers and sugar. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
3. Press about 1 tablespoon of the wafer mixture into each liner.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and key lime juice until smooth. Stir in grated zest.
5. Pour about 1 teaspoon of the filling over the wafer crust in each tartlet.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until filling is set. Allow to cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a world of decadent desserts with these 18 mouthwatering recipes featuring vanilla wafers as the star ingredient. From classic banana pudding and strawberry shortcake to creative cheesecake bars and tiramisu, there’s something for every sweet tooth. Discover how simple vanilla wafers can be transformed into show-stopping desserts like chocolate-dipped cookies, coconut macaroons, and pumpkin spice trifle. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family.
