The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts: Classic and Creative Icebox Desserts with a Magnolia Bakery Twist, Share with Friends and Family

by Bobbie Lloyd

Indulge in 100 delightful no-bake desserts from the iconic New York bakery. Explore classic treats like banana pudding; icebox cakes, pies, and cheesecakes; as well as all-new icebox sweets from Magnolia Bakery’s Chief Baking Officer Bobbie Lloyd.

Magnolia Bakery, once a small corner shop in New York’s West Village, now a global phenomenon with 40+ stores around the world, shares a new collection of recipes in The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts.

An icebox dessert is a no-bake or low-bake dessert that comes together with time to set in the refrigerator, meaning these recipes are simple, classic, easy to make, and of course, completely delicious. The book features 100 recipes—each with a gorgeous photo—of icebox cakes, icebox pies, cheesecakes, icebox bars, and puddings, including variations on Magnolia Bakery’s famous and beloved banana pudding, plus recipes that cover the prep work (and require a bit of baking) for crusts, crumbs, fillings, and cookies. Advice on kitchen staples and supplies, with tips and tricks to become the ultimate baker are also included, so you’re ready to go before you start. Recipes

Banana Pudding Icebox CakeTriple Chocolate Pudding PieCold Brew Chocolate Chip CheesecakeStrawberry Shortcake BarsCannoli Icebox BarsPeach Crisp No Bake BarsChocolate Wafer CookiesPumpkin Spice Pudding with Cookie Butter SwirlSo make some room in the fridge, turn off the oven, and enjoy these mouthwatering flavors at home!

Genres: Cookbooks, Food, Nonfiction, Cooking

256 pages, Hardcover

Published April 22, 2025

About the author

Bobbie Lloyd is the CEO of Magnolia Bakery in New York.

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for summertime desserts! In addition to yummy recipes this cookbook includes a wealth of information on ingredients, tools of the trade, and baking tips!

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts.

I love all desserts and am a fan of icebox desserts since it requires no baking.

I love bananas but not a fan of banana pudding because I prefer the fruit itself.

The recipes are divided by puddings, cakes, and pies so there's an icebox dessert for everyone here from the classic banana pudding to icebox cakes, pies, cheesecakes, and twists on sweets like Cold Brew Chocolate Chip Cheesecake and Pumpkin Spice Pudding with Cookie Butter Swirl.

I'm a chocoholic so naturally those recipes drew my eye though I have to say I was intrigued by the Peach Crisp No Bake Bars.

The base recipes at the back such as pie crust, whipped cream and basic cake recipes are super helpful.

You never know when you need to make whipped cream~

If you just want to make a chocolate or carrot cake, these recipes are your go-to!

This cookbook was a delight to read.

Some of the recipes are labor intensive but most of them are straight forward instructions and there is a photo for every recipe. 👍

[jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for a digital uncorrected proof of this title.

If you’re a dessert lover with a soft spot for no-bake treats, The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts is a dreamy addition to your kitchen bookshelf. Rooted in the nostalgic flavors of the iconic Magnolia Bakery, this collection celebrates the magic of cold-set desserts – from creamery cheesecakes and layered pies to delectable icebox bars and, of course, their legendary banana pudding.

This book is not only beautifully photographed but also refreshingly accessible. The step-by-step recipes are clear and easy to follow, whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out. I tried the Banana Pudding Icebox Cake, a deconstructed spin on their famous pudding, and it was a total showstopper. It came together with minimal effort, yet the final presentation looked like something you’d find behind a bakery glass case. Best of all? It tasted just as good as it looked. I served it to friends and family, and everyone was raving about it.

Beyond the recipes, this handbook exudes charm and warmth, making it as enjoyable to read as it is to bake from. Whether you’re making something simple for a weeknight treat or a crowd-pleaser for a party, there’s a recipe here that’ll wow without the stress.

Verdict: A delightful, approachable dessert book that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Highly recommended for anyone who loves sweets but not the heat of the oven.

[LaShanda Chamberlain · Rating 5 out of 5]

Besides a few classic favorites like German Chocolate Cake, Red Velvet Cake, and Carrot Cake, my all-time favorite desserts are cream pies and cheesecakes—so when I saw The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts by Bobbie Lloyd, I knew I was in for a treat!

This cookbook is a dessert lover’s dream, packed with over 100 mouthwatering recipes. It starts with helpful background info on key ingredients, utensils, and equipment needed to create these delicious desserts. Then, it takes you through each step to make everything from rich icebox cakes and pies to creamy cheesecakes and Magnolia Bakery’s famous banana pudding. The best part? These treats are no-bake and set in the fridge, making them as easy as they are delicious.

My favorite part? Definitely the cheesecake recipes! The book breaks it down step-by-step, helping you make the creamiest cheesecakes that will melt in your mouth. And every recipe is paired with a gorgeous photo of the finished dish, so you know exactly what to expect. If you’re craving unforgettable, no-bake desserts that will have everyone coming back for more, The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts is a must-try! You won’t regret it!

Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an advance copy to read!

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful recipe book that I cannot wait to try. Each chapter represents a different category from icebox cakes/pies to my personal favorite, cheesecakes and different types of banana pudding. The photos throughout the book are making me so excited to try these recipes. This book would make a great gift for someone special or a great addition to your personal cookbook collection.

Thank you William Morrow Books and NetGalley for a copy of this book.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great helpful cookbook! The photos are beautiful and the recipes are easy to follow. There are lots of tips and tricks throughout which is really helpful. The recipes I'm most excited to try are the Peanut Butter Whipped Cream chocolate Cookie Icebox Cake, Chocolate Pretzel Banana Cream Pie,Roasted Strawberry Cheesecake, Strawberry Shortcake Icebox Bars,Strawberry Shortcake Banana Pudding and Cookies and Cream Pudding. Special Thank you to Bobbie Lloyd,William Morrow and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

The perfect level of effort when you want something delicious but not super involved

[Pattie Tierney · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're a fan of no-bake desserts that blend nostalgia with modern flair, The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts, released TODAY, is a must-have addition to your cookbook collection. From the iconic New York bakery that started as a humble West Village shop and grew into a global sensation with over 40 locations, Volume 2 brings 100 delightful recipes straight to your kitchen—no oven required. Authored by Magnolia Bakery’s Chief Baking Officer, Bobbie Lloyd, this stunning collection celebrates the simplicity and deliciousness of icebox desserts, which set to perfection in the refrigerator.

Every recipe is paired with a vibrant, mouthwatering photo that practically begs you to start prepping. The range of treats is impressive: classic banana pudding, icebox cakes, pies, cheesecakes, and inventive new sweets like Cold Brew Chocolate Chip Cheesecake and Pumpkin Spice Pudding with Cookie Butter Swirl. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re craving the comforting layers of a Classic Icebox Cake—reminiscent of childhood with chocolate wafers and sweetened whipped cream—or the refreshing twist of Peach Crisp No Bake Bars.

The recipes cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned bakers, with clear instructions and helpful tips on kitchen staples and techniques. While most desserts are entirely no-bake, a few include light baking for crusts or cookies, making it versatile yet approachable. Standouts like the Triple Chocolate Pudding Pie and Strawberry Shortcake Bars promise to satisfy any sweet tooth, while the Cannoli Icebox Bars offer a creative spin on a beloved classic.

This isn’t just a cookbook—it’s a visual and culinary experience. One of the most beautiful cookbooks I’ve encountered in years, it’s brimming with nostalgic charm and irresistible flavors. I’m already planning to spend my summer working through all 100 recipes, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. Clear out some fridge space, turn off the oven, and dive into this delightful world of icebox sweets—you won’t be disappointed.


I was provided with an advanced digital copy by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️

There are some things I really, really enjoy about this book. The fact that there are photos for every single recipe is incredible. Gorgeous photos too! This book is incredibly well-styled. It makes you want to try every single recipe—even things that you normally wouldn’t look twice at because maybe they’re not to your taste. There’s also something for everyone in here, as far as types of flavors. Fruity, chocolate, caramel, coffee, etc. you’re covered! There’s enough information at the beginning and end to help a beginner cook as well.

The fact that this book really takes what they do well and capitalizes on it—banana puddings and puddings in general? That’s going to be the big selling point for people. That being said, this is my main issue with the book. Many of the pudding recipes have the first step as basically to make the vanilla pudding from their banana pudding. That’s such a big pet peeve of mine for cookbooks. I don’t want to have to flip back and forth through the pages. Just put the necessary steps and ingredients for each recipe for each recipe on the pages! I don’t want to forget to buy things because I only grabbed the ingredients that were on the page for the recipe I want to make and didn’t flip back to the banana pudding recipe. It’s just so lazy on the part of the author and publisher.

[Stephanie · Rating 2 out of 5]

The Magnolia Bakery has learned to add lots of photos to their cookbooks (far cry from their first one). Although most icebox desserts are quick to assemble, these aren’t. If you want to kind of replicate Nabisco’s Famous chocolate wafer icebox cake, you have to make the wafers (Nabisco discontinued the product) or use Oreos as a poor substitute. Magnolia kind of missed the mark on this one with their recipes as they failed to recognize that ice box desserts appeal is that they are quick to make with readily available ingredients. Additionally, there are WAY TOO MANY recipes that feature banana pudding.

I see glowing reviews of this “no bake” cookbook & wonder if the reviewers actually read the recipes and comprehended them. Many recipes want you to bake something ( a cookie, a crust, a cheesecake, roasted strawberries, etc).

[J Kromrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to William Morrow and Netgalley for this eARC.

🍰 Bobbie Lloyd’s second volume in The Magnolia Bakery Handbook series is more than a recipe collection—it’s a love letter to the art of patience, layering, and the quiet magic of the refrigerator. Icebox desserts, often overlooked in favor of flashier confections, are given center stage here, and Lloyd treats them with reverence, creativity, and a touch of Southern charm.

This isn’t just a handbook—it’s a philosophy of dessert-making that celebrates simplicity without sacrificing sophistication.

Each recipe is framed with warmth and intention. Lloyd doesn’t just list ingredients—she tells you why they matter, how they interact, and what memories they evoke. There’s a narrative arc to the book: from classic puddings and trifles to inventive twists like matcha tiramisu and bourbon-infused cookie stacks. The structure invites exploration while maintaining a comforting rhythm, like a well-paced novel.

The headnotes are particularly rich—offering glimpses into Magnolia Bakery’s ethos, Lloyd’s personal baking journey, and the cultural roots of each dessert. It’s culinary storytelling at its most inviting.

What makes this volume stand out is its quiet intelligence. Lloyd understands that baking is both science and sentiment. She explains the chemistry behind chilling times and texture layering without overwhelming the reader. But she also taps into the emotional core of icebox desserts—their role in family gatherings, summer picnics, and late-night indulgences.

There’s a subtle theme of restoration here: how something as simple as whipped cream and graham crackers can become a balm for the soul when assembled with care.

Visually, the book is stunning. The photography is lush but not overly styled—each dessert looks achievable, not intimidating. Instructions are clear, ingredients are accessible, and variations are encouraged. Lloyd empowers the home baker to experiment, to adapt, and most importantly, to enjoy the process.

The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts: Volume 2 is a celebration of stillness in a fast-paced culinary world. It invites readers to slow down, layer thoughtfully, and let time do its quiet work. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a curious newcomer, this book offers more than recipes—it offers a ritual.

It’s a reminder that sometimes, the sweetest things in life are the ones we don’t rush.

[Jen · Rating 5 out of 5]

After making Magnolia Bakery’s viral banana pudding and having it be a total hit at a party, I was more than ready to get my hands on more of their recipes. Icebox desserts have such a nostalgic and homemade quality to them; they always remind me of a family specialty you can only find once a year at a sunny cookout. This cookbook is full of delicious and unique options to add to your rotation.

I learned a lot about baking fundamentals like making perfect whipped cream, baking elevated staple desserts, and even saw some recipes you can guarantee that guests have never tried. Photography can make or break a cookbook, and Magnolia Bakery nails this with beautiful imagery for every single recipe. It just makes you want to try everything! It's an easy 5 stars from me.

Here are the 7 recipes that stood out to me.

• Cannoli Icebox Bar: Are you kidding me? As a Sicilian American I am so psyched about this one, the plating with mini ice cream cones is so fun.
• Roasted Strawberry Crisp Pudding: I really want to mess around with this one and add matcha cream. I love the layered presentation in individual glasses.
• Butterscotch Pudding With Snickerdoodle Cookies: I have never seen anything like this but that flavor combination sounds insane. I’m crossing my fingers for this being an early fall favorite.
• Biscoff Swirl Cheesecake With Biscoff Cookie Crust: This looks straight out of a high-end bakery. Rich and elegant. If a home baker served this to me I’d be so impressed.
• Banana Cream Pie: They’ve perfected banana pudding, so I really trust them to knock this one out of the park.
• Apple Crisp Icebox Bar: I’m 100% breaking this out when apple season rolls around in late summer.
• Deep-Dish Peanut Butter Cup Icebox Pie: I’m going to be adding their chocolate ganache recipe as a base layer here.

Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins, and Magnolia Bakery for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Aries.Pisces · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts by Bobbie Lloyd is 100 recipes of simple, elegant and beautifully photographed desserts from the premier artisan behind New York's Magnolia Bakery's success.

The cookbook is broken down into chapters: Icebox Cakes, Icebox Pies, Cheesecakes, Icebox Bars, Banana Pudding, Puddings, and Base recipes. Each chapter is filled with well written, easy to navigate recipes that can be navigated by both seasons and beginner cooks. In fact, this book was easy to use with a nine-year-old who is just learning how to bake. Every recipe is based off of a base recipe (listed at the back of the book, a drawback that I can't imagine how it could be altered to make it better), that is so, so easily adapted to whatever masterpieces you might come up with of your own. We made a bit of everything just to see how well the recipes worked as written. They were all easily executed and tasty.

We made Lemon Curd Icebox Cake, Triple Chocolate Pudding Pie, Coconut Cream Pie, Butter Pecan Cheesecake, Vanilla Bean Cheesecake, Peanut Butter Pretzel Icebox Bars and Lemon Cream Icebox Bars. I despise anything with bananas so none of those happened, But if you are a fan of Magnolia Bakery's Banana Pudding, the original recipe is there along with an entire chapter of adaptations.

Although several recipes, like the cheesecakes, contain cooked components, for the the most part, the recipes require no cooking. In fact, almost any cooked item (perhaps not those roasted strawberries) can be substituted for a store bought version in order to keep the recipe fuss free.

While the recipes and picture are wonderful, I think it would be doing the book and the author a disservice not to mention the Introduction where the author spends time discussing tips, tool, and ingredients. This clear, concise, and engaging section not only sets the reader up for success in making these recipes, but in future baking endeavors. This section was created with intention. The reader would do well to not skip it.

[Maria Kammer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for a digital uncorrected proof of this title. Cookbooks are one of my favorite non-fiction genres and I always read them from cover-to-cover. As an experienced dessert maker I feel quite confident tackling any new recipe. Magnolia Bakery Handbook Vol. 2 Icebox Desserts will not disappoint as a plethora of nostalgic favorites and several fresh new takes on icebox (what we used to call a refrigerator) desserts abound. I am always thrilled to learn something new; the Baking Tips and techniques section of this cookbook was truly informative. I now view the weight and measuring of ingredients in a totally new light. Ingredients as far as quality and specific brands are also discussed. This is definitely an important section to include for the home cook so that the iconic flavors of Magnolia Bakery can be recreated at home.

Stunning, full color photos accompany each recipe.

This cookbook's table of contents divides desserts among 6 categories:

Icebox Cakes
Icebox Pies,
Cheesecake (baked in advance, but then chilled for serving)
Icebox bars
Banana pudding and variations of the original famous recipe
Base recipes feature components that are baked but can be prepared ahead of time for later use.

Each dessert section contains many useful tips specific to that type of dessert.

While there are several fruit based desserts, chocolate, peanut butter, and banana lovers will rejoice as many of the recipes feature 1, 2 or 3 of these ingredients as recipe ingredients.

Many of the recipes can be prepared in advance which is so helpful entertaining and busy schedules.

Delicious desserts to beat the heat or whenever you want to skip the oven. Don't delay, clean out your fridge today so you have room to house these luscious treats.

**this uncorrected proof did not contain an index and I assume that it will be forthcoming in the finished edition.

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts Volume 2 is an absolutely gorgeous collection of no-bake desserts collected and curated by Bobbie Lloyd. Due out 22nd April 2025 from HarperCollins on their Wm. Morrow Harvest imprint, it's 256 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.

The entire collection is stylish, elegant, and impressive. The recipes themselves contain abundant clear photos in color. Many (not all, but most) are surprisingly "do-able" and really just *look* super impressive. The majority don't require a ton of specialist equipment or esoteric ingredients and will be well within the scope of the average home cook with an adequately equipped kitchen space.

Recipes are grouped thematically: cakes, pies, cheesecakes, bars, banana pudding, other puddings, and base recipes. Recipe ingredients are provided in a bullet list sidebar, followed by step-by-step instructions. Ingredient measures are written in imperial (American) units with metric in parentheses (yay!). Nutritional information is not provided. Most ingredients will be readily available at any well stocked grocery store in North America.

Everything about this collection is generous... the photography is abundant, clear, and in color... the recipes themselves are graciously proportioned, a bit old fashioned, and beautiful. They're not overly fancy or fussy...

Five stars. It does a perfect job at what it sets out to do. This would be an excellent choice for public or home library acquisition, as well as for gift giving.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

I do like an icebox cake. I forgot about that until I saw this book. I don't make a lot of desserts but just the cover and title made me want to whip up a quick snack out of cookies and whipped cream.

This is a weird little book though. It starts out well. It starts with icebox cakes. These are cakes that are generally made with cookies layered with whipped cream that soften to a cake-like consistency in the refrigerator. The book shows their formula for making the cakes including diagrams for the best arrangement of cookies in a round cake pan. The photography is excellent and makes you want to try everything. Instructions are given for making your own cookies or suggestions are given for store bought cookies that work with each recipe to make this truly a quick dessert to throw together.


Once you see the first recipe, every other cake is a variation on the theme. They vary only in flavor. The cookies are different or they flavor the whipped cream. Sometimes they add a layer of filling or a topping. But once you get the general idea you can run with whatever flavor you want.

The next section is pies. It is the same formula here. Get the basic recipe down and then see all the flavor variations. I'm planning on making the Key Lime pie for a July 4th picnic next week. It's still all good.

But then. I don't know what happened. I think the author forgot how words work? They move into cheesecakes. Ok, no-bake cheesecakes are a thing. But these aren't no-bakes. These are full on, bake in the oven cheesecakes. They look good but why are they in an ICEBOX BOOK? Nothing in those recipes ever go in a refrigerator during the process.

From there we move back to pudding. At least that goes in the fridge. The last section covers making all the cookies they use and some of the sauces.

I did keep the basic formulas for the cake and pies along with some flavor variations for ideas. These are full on dairy recipes with a million calories a slice but they are pretty easily veganized if you have any non-dairy cooking experience.

[charmette.books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another spectacular baking masterpiece by Bobbie Lloyd. The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts has a variety of recipes, from pie crusts all the way to elaborate desserts such as Bananas Foster Cheesecake. There are many recipes within each category and a good variety within each section. The sections of this cookbook are Icebox Cakes, Icebox Pies, Cheesecakes, Icebox Bars, Banana Pudding, Puddings, and Base Recipes.

I tried several recipes from this cookbook and had positive results with all of them. The Classic Icebox Cake was easy to prepare and assemble, and the cake was delicious. The Banoffee Pie was also delicious, but the preparation was a bit more involved, took longer and the ingredients were a little more difficult to find. The Swirled Blueberry Jamboree was simple and so tasty. My family enjoyed all of these desserts when I prepared them.

My family's favorite recipe was "The Magnolia Bakery's Famous Banana Pudding". The recipe was fairly simple to follow, with a short list of easy-to-find ingredients. The preparation and assembly were clearly described and easy to follow. The final product was amazing - super rich and creamy, though I do need more practice on layering the ingredients in a trifle bowl so that it looks like the images in the cookbook.

The cookbook had a nice, simple structure, and I enjoyed reading Lloyd's tips and tools of the trade at the beginning of the cookbook. The font used in the recipes is easy to read, and the photos are a gorgeous showcase of all of the desserts. Overall this is a cookbook I would purchase and recommend to others. I enjoyed reviewing this ebook, but will probably purchase the actual book version.

Thanks to Bobbie Lloyd, Harvest Publishing/William Morrow Books, and NetGalley for an advance reader's copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[The Bourbon-Sipping Bibliophile · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts" by Bobbie Lloyd is a delightful culinary journey into the world of no-bake and low-bake desserts. This cookbook, from the iconic Magnolia Bakery, offers a collection of 100 recipes, each accompanied by a beautiful photograph. The book explores a variety of icebox treats, including cakes, pies, cheesecakes, bars, and puddings, with a special focus on Magnolia Bakery's famous banana pudding.

One of the book's strengths is its focus on accessibility. As the title suggests, the recipes are designed to be simple and easy to make, relying on the refrigerator for setting rather than an oven. Lloyd also provides helpful advice on kitchen essentials, ingredients, and techniques, making this book suitable for bakers of all skill levels.

The variety of recipes is impressive, ranging from classic favorites to creative new concoctions. Readers can indulge in treats like Triple Chocolate Pudding Pie, Cold Brew Chocolate Chip Cheesecake, Strawberry Shortcake Bars, and Cannoli Icebox Bars. There are also recipes that require some baking, such as those for crusts, crumbs, fillings, and cookies, adding another layer of depth to the collection.

The mouthwatering photos accompanying each recipe are not only helpful but also add to the overall reading experience, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach. The clear, step-by-step instructions ensure that even novice bakers can create delicious and impressive desserts.

In summary, "The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts" is a must-have for anyone who loves no-bake desserts. It's a beautiful and practical cookbook that offers a wide range of recipes, clear instructions, and stunning photography. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this book will inspire you to create delicious and memorable treats.

Thank you NetGalley!

[Anna Marie Botterill · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Thanks to NetGalley for providing me a complimentary copy of The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts by Bobbie Lloyd in exchange for my honest review.***

As someone who adoresNew York City, there's always been something magical about stepping into Magnolia Bakery—those charming pastel counters, the heavenly smell of freshly baked sweets, and that unmistakable sense that you’re tasting a bit of the city's heart. So when I got my hands on "The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts" by Bobbie Lloyd, I was beyond excited—and it did NOT disappoint.

This book is pure joy. It’s like bringing a delicious piece of NYC right into your kitchen. The recipes are not only nostalgic and beautifully laid out, but they’re also incredibly approachable. Whether you're a seasoned dessert maker or a casual baker, the step-by-step instructions and gorgeous photos make every creation feel doable and exciting. And the best part? Every dessert has that classic Magnolia flair—rich, creamy, dreamy, and completely crave-worthy.

What I loved most is how it made me feel connected to the city I love, even from afar. Now, whenever the craving hits (or I just need a little NYC magic), I can whip up a Banana Pudding Icebox Cake and instantly feel like I’m back on Bleecker Street.

Bobbie Lloyd has created more than a cookbook—this is a heartfelt tribute to the sweet side of New York, and it’s now a treasured part of my kitchen. Highly, highly recommend for anyone who loves Magnolia Bakery, the Big Apple, or just really good desserts.

[Hana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baking always intimidated me and I would not say I am a particularly good baker. That is why I loved this cookbook since most items were no-bake recipes! Most recipes are very beginner friendly!

My favorite sections are the Puddings since they are all non-bake. I also love the Pies section but I am going to be honest and say I used a pre-made crust for the Banana Cream Pie recipe before attempting to actually make a crust for the Triple-Chocolate Pudding Pie (which was delicious!). That is why I think this cookbook is perfect for beginners since you can buy some stuff pre-made before you build up your confidence to make some of the more complicated recipes.

Other than the pies, I think the Cheesecake section is the only other section where there is baking involved. I absolutely loved how every main recipe had a photo and they were gorgeous! There are some recipes at the end for cookies, cakes, brownies, crusts, fillings, and toppings at the end which did not all have pictures but some did! I think that it was a good idea to keep this section succinct and clean since this end section acts more as a reference section for the main recipes.

Let me wrap up this review with my favorite recipes so far:

Magnolia Bakery’s Famous Banana Pudding
Triple-Chocolate Pudding Pie
Chocolate Pretzel Banana Cream Pie
Apple Crisp Pudding

Overall, I highly recommend this cookbook!

Thank you to Harvest Publishing Group for providing this book for review via NetGalley!

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a good dessert cookbook for anyone who likes cheesecakes and puddings.

The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts is exactly that- the very best ice box recipes from the Magnolia bakery. These now or low bake recipes are great for a quick and refreshing dessert.

The introduction and layout of the book is very easy to read- the intro is particularly detailed, discussing the different tools, techniques, and standard ingredients that will be round throughout the entire book. It really helps the baker feel knowledgeable and support about each recipe in the book.

The recipes are in both metric and imperial, which is very helpful for bakers who use both volume and weight measurements. There are a few recipes that will not be translated to an international audience since cookies like Nutter Butters and Nilla Wafers are not available in every country.

The pictures are great. Each picture features a really pretty cake with serving suggestion. It was easy to see how each recipe should be formed within each pan.

What I liked most about this cookbook is that there are a few flavors that get repeated into different forms, which makes it feel like there are so many opportunities with each flavor. If someone falls in love with the peanut butter recipes, there are multiple ways in which that same recipe can be arranged and made.

[Suzi (Lil Bit Reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts is a gorgeous cookbook full of no-bake and low-bake sweet treats. I adore the concept of icebox desserts, which goes back to the 1920s, originating from “back of the box” style recipes that require little to no baking. With summer just around the corner, these cool and creamy icebox desserts will be the perfect end to summer BBQs and potlucks!

This cookbook is well organized, with sections for cakes, pies, bars, and puddings. There’s even one whole section for Magnolia Bakery’s famous banana pudding, with lots of yummy variations like peanut butter, sweet and salty, and carrot cake. Yum! There’s also a section with base recipes for various cookies and cakes, pie crusts, and fillings and sauces that go into the dessert recipes but that would also make handy staple recipes.

Every single recipe is accompanied by a mouth-watering photo perfectly styled to Magnolia Bakery’s aesthetic. The ingredients are very accessible, and the recipes should appeal to bakers of all abilities. The icebox cakes are the easiest with the fewest ingredients, but I sure do love the way those layers look like you put in a ton of work! I can’t wait to whip up some of these delicious recipes!

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me an advance copy of this book.

[Olivia Kreimeier · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Magnolia Bakery Handbook: Icebox Cakes (ARC)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Having had the chance to receive an ARC of The Magnolia Bakery Handbook: Icebox Cakes, I couldn't be more excited to share my love for this delightful collection. From the first page, it’s clear this book will be a go-to for anyone who loves simple, decadent, and nostalgic desserts.

Magnolia Bakery’s signature charm shines through with every icebox cake recipe, blending easy prep with irresistible flavors. Whether you're craving the classic Chocolate Icebox Cake or a fun twist like the Peanut Butter and Jelly Icebox Cake, there’s something for every taste. The Mocha Chocolate Chip Icebox Cake was a standout—rich, creamy, and just the right amount of coffee kick.

What makes this book so special is its accessibility. With clear instructions, helpful tips, and a pantry guide for all the essential ingredients, this book is perfect for bakers of any skill level. Plus, it’s impossible not to smile at the playful, nostalgic spirit behind each cake.

If you're looking for a collection of showstopping yet stress-free desserts, The Magnolia Bakery Handbook: Icebox Cakes will quickly become your favorite baking companion. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy moments at home, it brings the comforting sweetness we all crave, with minimal effort required.

Thank you again to William Morrow Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this delicious book—I can’t wait to try more recipes!

[Karalee Shotola · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts includes 100 recipes for icebox cakes, icebox pies, cheesecakes, icebox bars, banana pudding, and puddings. The cookbook begins with baking tips as well as ingredients and tools to have on hand, which can be useful. Next are the recipes. Every recipe begins with a brief introduction and includes an ingredient list, numbered directions, and a picture. I do like that the recipes include a picture, but I do wish the recipes listed the prep and total times because I have not made any icebox desserts before, so I have no idea how long it would take to make them. You have to read through the directions to figure out the times. That said, the recipes themselves do not seem that hard to follow, and there are numerous recipes I would like to try including the Frozen Key Lime Pie, Banana Foster Cheesecake, Apple Crisp No-Bake Bars, and the Strawberry Shortcake Banana Pudding. Overall, the cookbook is great for those who enjoy no-bake and low-bake desserts.

Thank you NetGalley for sending this book for review.

[Mel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spoiler alert: fans of Schitt’s Creek should buy this book solely because it finally defines the proper way to “fold in” an ingredient. This cookbook could have saved David and Moira.

Jokes aside this book has so many wonderful recipes but truthfully my favorite element is the tips section. Reading through the section about ingredients was a great reminder of things long forgotten. The clip suggestion for lining a pan at the beginning of the icebox bar section is priceless. The photos and simple step by step directions make each recipe approachable no matter what skill level you may be. Bonus points for banana pudding getting its own chapter but banana cream is also featured several other categories. It’s my all time favorite flavor.

Thank you to the publisher, Net Galley, and the author for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. I loved this so much I’ll purchase a physical copy when it’s available on April 22, 2025.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a fan of Magnolia Bakery in NYC, I was excited for the chance to review this cook book. On our you will find a variety of ice box pies, banana puddings, cheesecakes, and more. Many recipes call for minimal or no baking, but ones like the cheesecakes will required oven use as well as prep for interviews like oven roasted strawberries. If you have a favorite flavor combo, the book likely includes 3-5 recipes featuring flavors like various fruits (strawberry, blueberry, peach, key lime), cookie butter, peanut butter, cold brew, chocolate, and more. Many of the cheesecakes and banana puddings have a base recipe and you may need to flip around a bit to reference other recipes. I can't wait to get busy trying some of these out.

Thank you to William Morrow - Harvest for an ARC on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. This book was published on 4/22/25.

[Brijeet · Rating 5 out of 5]

So...am I only only one who didn't know icebox desserts is just a fancy way of saying "no bake"? (You learn something every day!)

The photography in the cookbook is gorgeous, and the cakes and pies are beautifully assembled like expensive bakery items--then a look in the recipes and you discover how accessible they are. As I flipped through the book I found myself flagging multiple recipes I wanted to try, exactly what you want from a cookbook. There are multiple variations on Magnolia's famous banana pudding, as well as various cakes, bars, and puddings, and a few baked cheesecakes (the only actual cooking involved among the recipes).

Highly recommend for anyone who enjoys chilled, no-bake desserts and has a sweet tooth!

Thanks to William Morrow for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I think about my travels to New York City, there are places that are part of my core memory. These are the places that I tell people they need to visit. When it comes to bakeries, The Magnolia Bakery is one of those places. Their Banana Pudding is legendary! And now, you can recreate 100 of their recipes for Icebox desserts with The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts, Volume 2 by Bobbie Lloyd. You’ll get tips for baking and on ingredients and the tools you’ll need to create icebox cakes, pies, bars, cheesecakes and puddings, including an entire chapter dedicated to variations of their banana pudding! It’ll be so hard to pick which one to make first! Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins Publishers for this beautiful, full-color, digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Birdie.Recommends · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must-have for summer! The Magnolia Bakery Handbook of Icebox Desserts brings you effortlessly cool, no-bake treats perfect for warm-weather celebrations. With easy-to-follow instructions, this book is manageable for all skill levels—whether you’re a beginner or an old hand in the kitchen.

Featuring irresistible icebox cakes, pies, cheesecakes, bars, and multiple variations of Magnolia’s famous banana pudding (a personal favorite!), it’s packed with delicious inspiration. Plus, the stunning photography makes every dessert look as good as it tastes. No oven? No problem!

Thank you to the author, William Morrow and NetGalley for the digital copy of this cookbook in exchange for an honest review.

[Henri Etta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review

I'm an easy desserts kind of gal, and I appreciate the existence of this cookbook(or not-cookbook) to make experiencing life just a little bit easier. No-bake recipes are my favorite, it doesn't require preheating or proofing. The kicker is that it's Magnolia Bakery level sweets as well! I heavily heavily approve of the banana pudding being present in this cookbook because that's just a magnolia bakery staple. There are also a few classic cakes (Oh red velvet my sweetheart).

Complete with a guide to equipment, materials, and ingredients found in every standard cookbook, and delectable photos! I have already made the banana pudding, and there are a few leftovers in my fridge. :)