Pistachio Pudding Icebox Cake

An easy no-bake pistachio pudding dessert recipe made with lush layers of pistachio pudding, whipped topping, graham crackers, and chopped nuts.

For another easy pistachio dessert try my easy 5-ingredient watergate salad recipe.

Today I want to share a super easy icebox cake recipe perfect for pistachio lovers like my husband.

My husband loves this no-bake pistachio dessert so much, he is already asking me when I will be making it again.

What is an Icebox Cake?

Icebox cakes are easy no-bake desserts that are stored in the refrigerator (referred to as an “icebox” back in the day).

They are typically made by layering cookies or graham crackers with whipped cream, pudding and/or no-bake cheesecake. Other common mix-ins and toppings are often included as well, such as fruit, chocolate syrup, or crushed candy.

After sitting in the fridge overnight the cookie layer softens which results in a cool and delicious treat.

Icebox cakes may also be referred to as dessert lasagna, dream dessert, lush, or layered dessert.

But no matter what you call them, one thing is certain. They taste incredible and couldn’t be easier to make.

Just like my lemon icebox cake, strawberry icebox cake, and this easy pistachio pudding icebox cake!

Ingredient Notes

This section includes ingredient notes and substitution options. Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

Pistachio instant pudding mix – You will need two 3.4 ounce boxes. Make sure you get instant pudding mix and not the cook and serve type.
Milk – Use whole milk for an extra creamy filling – although 2%, 1% or skim milk will work, too.
Whipped topping – Two 8 ounce tubs or one 16 ounce tub, thawed. You can also use homemade Cool Whip if you prefer.
Graham crackers – You will use almost an entire box, although you will have some extra for snacking.

How to Make Pistachio Pudding Icebox Dessert

This section shows you how to make the recipe with step-by-step photos and instructions. For the full printable recipe, see the recipe card below. 

You will make this pistachio pudding dessert by first combining your pudding mix with milk and cool whip to create the filling.

Then, you will create alternating layers of graham crackers, pistachio pudding, and whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip) in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.

Next, you will place the cake in the fridge for at least 4 hours to allow it to chill and the graham crackers absorb the pudding and soften up.

Finally, sprinkle on some chopped pistachios just before slicing and serving (or graham cracker crumbs would be a good alternative with less crunch).

I always prepare my icebox cakes the day before I would like to serve them. They can chill overnight and I don’t have to worry about making them early in the day to allow for the 4 hour chill time.

I hope you and your family enjoy this easy pistachio pudding dessert recipe.

If you like no-bake desserts, be sure to try our strawberry Jello pie, strawberry cheesecake bars, banana pudding icebox cake, key lime icebox cake, and lemon lush as well.

If you do decide to give it a shot, please come back and let me know how you liked it! I always love checking out comments and reviews from readers!