The humble vanilla wafer has become a staple in many bakeries and home kitchens around the world. These delicate, crispy treats are a perfect canvas for a wide range of flavors and textures. From classic desserts like banana pudding and cheesecake to more unique creations like strawberry shortcake and chocolate eclairs, the possibilities are endless! In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering vanilla wafer recipes that will satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, these irresistible flavors are sure to inspire your next baking adventure.
Vanilla Wafer Banana Pudding
A creamy and comforting dessert that combines the sweetness of bananas with the crunch of vanilla wafers.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 3 large ripe bananas, sliced
– 12-15 vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine heavy cream, whole milk, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, or until the pudding thickens slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in sliced bananas, crushed vanilla wafers, and salt. Let it cool to room temperature.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Just before serving, whisk in vanilla extract.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (cooking time) + 2 hours (chilling time)
Vanilla Wafer Cheesecake Crust
Elevate your cheesecakes with a unique and delicious crust made from vanilla wafers!
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed vanilla wafers and sugar until well combined.
3. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture resembles wet sand.
4. Press the mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch springform pan or a pie dish.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. Let cool completely before filling with your favorite cheesecake recipe.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Strawberry Shortcake
Elevate your dessert game with this classic combination of vanilla wafers, sweet strawberries, and creamy whipped cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 package vanilla wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
– 2 cups sliced strawberries
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Arrange vanilla wafers in a single layer on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly toasted and fragrant.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream with sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
5. Slice strawberries into thin pieces.
6. To assemble, place a toasted vanilla wafer on a serving plate, followed by a layer of whipped cream, then a layer of sliced strawberries.
7. Repeat the layers one more time, finishing with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (baking wafers only)
Vanilla Wafer Icebox Cake
This classic dessert is a staple of summer gatherings and potlucks, perfect for warm weather when you want a light and refreshing treat. With just a few simple ingredients, this vanilla wafer icebox cake is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and salt until stiff peaks form.
2. Fold in the vanilla extract.
3. Crush the vanilla wafers into fine crumbs.
4. Layer half of the wafer crumbs in the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
5. Spread half of the whipped cream over the wafers.
6. Repeat the layers, ending with the remaining whipped cream on top.
7. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is perfect for making ahead of time and letting it chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
Vanilla Wafer Chocolate Eclair Dessert
Experience the decadent combination of crunchy vanilla wafers, creamy chocolate, and velvety whipped cream in this indulgent dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Vanilla Wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
– 8 ounces high-quality dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Crush the vanilla wafers in a food processor until they resemble fine crumbs.
2. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
3. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Add the softened butter and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. To assemble, dip the end of a vanilla wafer into the melted chocolate, then roll it in the crushed wafers to coat. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Top each coated wafer with a dollop of whipped cream.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None required; simply assemble and refrigerate until ready to serve.
Vanilla Wafer Peanut Butter Pie
This creamy pie combines the richness of peanut butter with the crunch of vanilla wafers, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this show-stopping pie that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press mixture into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add peanut butter, confectioners’ sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until well combined.
5. Pour filling into crust.
6. Top with crushed vanilla wafers.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until edges are set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Coconut Cream Pie
This creamy pie combines the classic flavors of coconut and vanilla with a crunchy wafer crust, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. With its tropical twist on a traditional cream pie, this recipe is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup shredded coconut
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together crushed wafers and sugar. Stir in melted butter until well combined.
3. Press mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Bake crust for 8-10 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. In a large bowl, whisk together sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
6. Pour filling over baked crust and sprinkle with shredded coconut.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Lemon Icebox Pie
A refreshing twist on classic icebox pie, this Vanilla Wafer Lemon Icebox Pie combines the crunch of vanilla wafers with the brightness of lemon and a creamy filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup powdered sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine crushed vanilla wafers and granulated sugar.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, powdered sugar, egg yolks, lemon juice, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the filling mixture over the wafer mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: None (refrigerated dessert)
Vanilla Wafer Peach Cobbler
This cobbler combines the sweetness of peaches with the crunch of vanilla wafers, creating a unique and delicious dessert. Perfect for warm weather gatherings or potlucks.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups fresh or frozen peaches, sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine peaches, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until well combined.
3. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and crushed vanilla wafers until smooth.
5. Pour the cream-vanilla wafer mixture over the peach mixture.
6. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Pumpkin Spice Trifle
This trifle combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the crunch of vanilla wafers, making it a perfect dessert for autumn gatherings. Layers of moist pumpkin cake, creamy whipped cream, and crunchy cookies create a show-stopping treat that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 package vanilla wafers
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whip heavy whipping cream and powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add pumpkin pie spice and mix well.
3. Dip vanilla wafers into melted butter, then layer in the bottom of a serving dish.
4. Spread half of the whipped cream over the wafers.
5. Mix pumpkin puree with milk and confectioners’ sugar; pour over the whipped cream.
6. Repeat layers: wafers, whipped cream, and pumpkin mixture.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This trifle is a no-bake dessert.
Vanilla Wafer S’mores Bars
A twist on the classic campfire treat, these Vanilla Wafer S’mores Bars combine the gooey goodness of s’mores with the crunch of vanilla wafers.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 12-15 Vanilla Wafers, crushed
– 1 cup milk chocolate chips
– 1 cup marshmallow creme
– Pinch of salt
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 together graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Pour in melted butter and stir until combined. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
3. Top crust with crushed Vanilla Wafers.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth. Spread over wafers.
5. Drizzle marshmallow creme over chocolate layer. Sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until edges are lightly golden brown.
7. Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Tiramisu
Experience the creamy, dreamy texture of traditional tiramisu, reimagined with crunchy vanilla wafers and a hint of sweetness. This unique dessert is perfect for any occasion or special treat.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 Vanilla Wafers
– 1 cup (250ml) Heavy Cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) Confectioner’s Sugar
– 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter, softened
– 2 cups (400ml) Strong Brewed Coffee
– 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
– Powdered Sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Dip each vanilla wafer into the brewed coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream and confectioner’s sugar until stiff peaks form.
3. Fold in softened butter until well combined.
4. Arrange half of the coffee-dipped wafers in a single layer in a 9×13-inch dish.
5. Spread half of the whipped cream mixture over the wafers.
6. Repeat steps 4 and 5, finishing with a layer of whipped cream on top.
7. Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This dessert is best served chilled, so refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Vanilla Wafer Caramel Delight
A sweet treat that combines the crunch of vanilla wafers with the gooey goodness of caramel, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of vanilla wafers (about 30-40 wafers)
– 1 cup of granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup of light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon of sea salt
– 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the vanilla wafers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, corn syrup, and 1/4 cup of water. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 350°F (175°C).
5. Remove from heat and slowly add heavy cream and sea salt. Stir until smooth.
6. Pour the caramel sauce over the vanilla wafers and let cool slightly.
7. Melt butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Drizzle over the caramel-covered wafers.
8. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Apple Crisp
Combine the warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg with the crunch of vanilla wafers to create a unique and delicious apple crisp.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers over the apple mixture.
5. Dot top with butter.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Blueberry Parfait
A sweet and refreshing dessert that combines crunchy vanilla wafers with fresh blueberries and creamy yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup granola or chopped nuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the crushed vanilla wafers and honey until well combined.
2. Spoon half of the wafer mixture into a glass or parfait dish.
3. Top with half of the blueberries.
4. Dollop with half of the yogurt.
5. Repeat the layers, starting with the remaining wafer mixture, then the blueberries, and finally the yogurt.
6. If desired, sprinkle granola or chopped nuts on top for added crunch.
7. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Vanilla Wafer Chocolate Mousse
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and dreamy Vanilla Wafer Chocolate Mousse, perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth. Crunchy vanilla wafers add a delightful textural element to the rich chocolate mousse.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 12-16 vanilla wafers, crushed
– 8 ounces good-quality dark or semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. In a separate bowl, melt the chocolate chips in the microwave or over a double boiler.
3. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream until well combined.
4. Stir in the softened butter and vanilla extract.
5. Crush the vanilla wafers and fold them into the mousse mixture.
6. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None
Vanilla Wafer Raspberry Cream Tart
This sweet and tangy tart is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, featuring crunchy vanilla wafers, creamy raspberry filling, and a crumbly crust. It’s an ideal dessert for springtime celebrations or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
– 1 cup vanilla wafers, crushed
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the mixture until coarse crumbs form.
4. Press crust mixture into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until lightly golden.
6. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
7. Arrange crushed vanilla wafers on the baked crust.
8. Top with raspberry filling (whisk fresh raspberries with 2 tablespoons granulated sugar).
9. Finish with whipped cream topping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vanilla Wafer Cinnamon Roll Cake
Elevate your breakfast or brunch game with this moist and flavorful cake, packed with the warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of vanilla wafers.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup crushed Vanilla Wafers
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together butter, egg, milk, and vanilla extract.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in crushed Vanilla Wafers and cinnamon.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in sweet treats with these 18 delicious vanilla wafer recipes! From classic desserts like banana pudding and cheesecake crust, to unique creations like strawberry shortcake and s’mores bars, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of fruity flavors or rich and creamy textures, these irresistible recipes will satisfy your cravings. With everything from icebox cakes to pumpkin spice trifles, these vanilla wafer desserts are sure to impress family and friends alike.
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