This Holiday NILLA-Almond Crunch Cake is the ultimate no-bake dessert for festive occasions. Featuring a creamy Neufchatel cheese filling layered with a buttery, crunchy crust made of NILLA wafers, almonds, and pretzels, it’s finished with a sprinkle of colorful nonpareils for a touch of holiday magic. Simple yet elegant, this treat is perfect for entertaining during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No-Bake Convenience: Perfect for busy holiday schedules—no oven needed!
- Festive Appeal: The almond and vanilla flavors pair beautifully with the crunchy texture.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare and freeze in advance for stress-free entertaining.
- Light and Refreshing: The creamy filling provides a balanced, indulgent yet airy dessert.
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)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- Line a 9-inch square pan with foil, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy lifting.
- In a large bowl, mix the finely crushed NILLA wafers, toasted almonds, pretzel crumbs, and melted butter until combined.
- Press half of the crumb mixture firmly into the bottom of the prepared pan to form the crust.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened Neufchatel cheese, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and almond extract until smooth and creamy.
- Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until fully incorporated.
- Sprinkle the nonpareils into the mixture and gently swirl them with a spoon, being careful not to overmix and cause the colors to bleed.
Step 3: Assemble the Layers
- Pour the creamy filling over the crust in the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the remaining crumb mixture over the top. Cover with plastic wrap and gently press down to ensure an even layer.
Step 4: Freeze
- Cover the pan tightly with foil or plastic wrap.
- Freeze for at least 4 hours or until the dessert is firm.
Step 5: Serve
- Use the foil overhang to lift the dessert out of the pan.
- Let it sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes to soften slightly before cutting into squares.
- Serve and enjoy the creamy, crunchy, and festive treat!
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9-inch square pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Spatula
- Food processor or rolling pin (for crushing cookies and pretzels)
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serving: Serve slightly softened for the best texture. Pair with a warm drink like hot chocolate, coffee, or spiced tea for a perfect holiday pairing.
- Storage: Keep leftover squares in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 1 week.
- Make-Ahead: This dessert can be made 1–2 days in advance and stored in the freezer until ready to serve.
Variations
- Peppermint Twist: Replace almond extract with peppermint extract and use red and white nonpareils for a festive peppermint version.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted dark or white chocolate over the top before serving for extra decadence.
- Nut-Free Alternative: Swap the almonds with more pretzel crumbs or crushed NILLA wafers for a nut-free option.
- Graham Cracker Base: Use graham crackers instead of NILLA wafers for a slightly different flavor.
Helpful Notes and Tips
- Even Spreading: Use a spatula to evenly spread the filling and crumb layers for a neat presentation.
- Crumb Mixture: Press the crust layer firmly so it holds together when serving.
- Color Bleeding: Add the nonpareils gently to the filling to avoid overmixing, which can cause the colors to bleed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular cream cheese instead of Neufchatel?
Yes, full-fat cream cheese works well for a richer flavor and creamier texture.
How do I crush the NILLA wafers and pretzels?
A food processor is the easiest option, but placing them in a zip-top bag and crushing with a rolling pin works too.
Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of frozen whipped topping?
Yes, but ensure the whipped cream is whipped to stiff peaks for stability.
How long should it thaw before serving?
Allow the dessert to sit at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes before slicing for the best texture.
Is it possible to double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a 9×13-inch pan and adjust the ingredient quantities accordingly.
This Holiday NILLA-Almond Crunch Cake is a delightful no-bake dessert that brings together creamy, crunchy, and sweet flavors with a festive flair. Perfect for holiday parties or cozy family gatherings, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite!