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–+ servings
Graham Cracker Cake
Graham Cracker Cake is a nostalgic, old-fashioned dessert made with a delightful blend of graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and vanilla. The texture is soft and tender, slightly denser than a traditional sponge cake, with a hint of caramel-like sweetness from the graham crackers. Perfect for family gatherings, afternoon tea, or potluck desserts, this vintage cake recipe is versatile and can be topped with whipped cream, fruit, or glaze. Its charming simplicity and subtle flavors make it a timeless favorite for anyone seeking a classic homemade treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 12
Calories 295 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ⅓ cup butter (or shortening)
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 2 eggs (large )
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ cup shredded coconut
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare Wet Ingredients

  • Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the eggs one at a time.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder.

Step 3: Mix Batter

  • Add the flour mixture alternately with milk, mixing until smooth.
  • Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 4: Fold in Final Ingredients

  • Gently fold in shredded coconut and graham cracker crumbs until evenly combined.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

  • Pour batter into a greased 9x13-inch pan or two round cake pans.
  • Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Tips

  • Use butter or shortening exactly as written on the card; butter will add more flavor, shortening will be lighter in texture
  • Bake in an 8x8 or 9x9 pan for the estimated 20-minute time
  • Lightly toast the coconut first for deeper flavor
  • Add a simple vanilla glaze or powdered sugar dusting if you’d like a topping
  • Replace part of the milk with evaporated milk for a more old-fashioned richness
  • Add chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans) for texture
  • For cupcakes, bake about 12 to 15 minutes instead of 20
  • Let the cake rest before slicing, as graham crumbs continue to set the crumb while cooling
  • Serve plain or with whipped cream as a classic vintage-style topping

Nutrition

Calories: 295kcalCarbohydrates: 41gProtein: 4gFat: 13gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 105mgFiber: 1gSugar: 27gVitamin A: 280IUCalcium: 65mgIron: 1.5mg
Keyword American baking, coconut cake, family recipe, graham cracker cake, old-fashioned cake, pantry cake, simple cake, vintage dessert
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