Recipe for Anne of Cleves Cake: Layers of Vanilla Wafer Delight

This classic no-bake dessert layers simple vanilla wafers with a rich whipped cream filling, creating a timeless treat that’s as easy as it is impressive. I’ve refined the technique to ensure perfect texture every time, with just the right balance of crunch and creaminess.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. A few quality ingredients come together without ever turning on the oven, making it ideal for warm days or when you need a fuss-free dessert. The wafers soften slightly but maintain their structure, creating a delightful contrast.

What you’ll achieve is a showstopping cake with clean layers that hold their shape when sliced. The vanilla flavor shines through, complemented by the subtle sweetness of the filling. It’s a dessert that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery.

Perfect for potlucks, holidays, or whenever you crave something special without the effort. This creation delivers on both flavor and presentation.

Ingredients for Recipe for Anne of Cleves Cake

Simple ingredients create this layered no-bake classic with vanilla wafers and creamy filling.

The vanilla wafers must be fresh for that perfect crunch. Nilla Wafers are the classic choice, but store-brand works too. For the cream, heavy whipping cream with at least 36% fat gives you stable peaks—Land O’Lakes or Organic Valley are reliable. The cream cheese should be full-fat (Philadelphia or Kraft), and don’t skimp on the vanilla—pure extract makes a noticeable difference.

No heavy cream? Coconut cream (chilled overnight) works in a pinch, but the flavor changes slightly. Swap powdered sugar for granulated in a blender if you’re out. For the pudding, Jell-O or Snack Pack brands are consistent. Want it lighter? Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese in the filling—texture differs but it’s still tasty (and don’t skip the pudding).

Assemble this the morning you plan to serve—it needs 4-6 hours to set properly in the fridge. Leftovers keep covered for 3-4 days, though the wafers soften more over time. Freezing isn’t recommended (the layers separate).

Step-by-Step Instructions for Anne of Cleves Cake

Here’s the method to create perfect layers of creamy goodness with vanilla wafers.

Step 1: Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer

In a large bowl, beat the 8 oz cream cheese and 0.5 cup unsalted butter with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes—you want no visible lumps remaining.

Gradually add the 0.5 cup granulated sugar and continue beating for another 1-2 minutes until fully incorporated. The mixture should be light and fluffy. Stir in 2 tsp vanilla extract until evenly distributed. Set this aside while you prepare the next layer.

Step 2: Make the Vanilla Pudding Layer

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 package vanilla pudding mix and 1.5 cups whole milk until smooth. If using instant pudding, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken. For cook-and-serve, follow package instructions to cook the pudding until it reaches a thick, custard-like consistency.

Once thickened, fold in 0.75 cup powdered sugar until completely dissolved. The pudding should be smooth and creamy with no graininess. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the whipped cream layer.

Step 3: Whip the Cream Layer

In a chilled bowl, combine the 2 cups heavy whipping cream and 2 tsp vanilla extract. Using an electric mixer, beat on high speed until soft peaks form. This usually takes 3-4 minutes.

Gradually add the remaining 0.75 cup powdered sugar (if not already used in pudding) and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to over-whip, or the cream will become grainy. The finished whipped cream should hold its shape when the beaters are lifted.

Step 4: Assemble the Layers

Line the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish with a layer of vanilla wafers. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the wafers. Add another layer of wafers, then spread the entire pudding mixture over them.

Add a third layer of wafers and top with the remaining cream cheese mixture. Finish with a final layer of wafers. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the top, creating a smooth surface. The dish should have 4 distinct layers of wafers with creamy fillings between each.

Step 5: Chill and Garnish

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. This chilling time allows the layers to set and the flavors to meld together. The longer it chills, the better the texture will be.

Before serving, garnish the top with sliced 1 lb fresh strawberries and 0.5 cup chopped nuts if desired. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Each serving should have distinct layers visible, with the creamy fillings holding the wafers together perfectly.

Dietary Considerations for These Flavors

Gluten-Free Adaptation

For a gluten-free version, simply swap the vanilla wafers with gluten-free vanilla wafers. Mi-Del or Schar brands make excellent options that hold their structure well. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged, as all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free. 💡

Dairy-Free Modifications

Use coconut cream (chilled overnight) in place of the heavy whipping cream, and substitute dairy-free cream cheese brands like Kite Hill or Miyoko’s. For the pudding, Jell-O Simply Good makes a dairy-free vanilla pudding mix that works perfectly.

Lower Sugar Version

Reduce the powdered sugar by half and use granulated erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in the cream cheese layer. The pudding mix can be made with unsweetened almond milk to further cut sugar content. The texture remains ideal with these adjustments.

Vegan Option

Combine all dairy-free swaps with vegan butter (like Earth Balance) and ensure the vanilla wafers are egg-free. The layers will set just as beautifully, and you can top with fresh berries for a colorful finish. 💪

Nut Allergy Note

Omit the chopped nuts or replace with toasted coconut flakes for a nut-free garnish. Always check that your vanilla wafers are produced in a nut-free facility to avoid cross-contamination.

Lactose Intolerance

Use lactose-free cream cheese and heavy cream—brands like Green Valley Creamery work well. The pudding can be made with lactose-free milk to ensure the entire dessert is gentle on sensitive systems.

Frequently Asked Questions