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–+ servings
Jeanne's Graham Cracker Cake
Graham cracker cake is a charmingly nostalgic dessert that showcases the versatility of pantry staples. Popular in mid-century American kitchens, this version uses crushed graham crackers in place of some flour for a warm, nutty flavor and a delicate crumb. The result is a moist, simple cake with subtle sweetness and rustic charm. Ideal for layering with fruit, cream, or frosting, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and texture to any occasion without fuss.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 321 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • ⅔ cup flour (sifted )
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 2½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 20 graham crackers (finely rolled, about 1 2/3 cups)
  • ½ cup shortening
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 2 eggs

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prep Dry Ingredients

  • Sift together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Combine with finely crushed graham cracker crumbs. Set aside.

Step 2: Cream Shortening

  • In a mixing bowl, cream the shortening until smooth.

Step 3: Mix Batter

  • Add the dry ingredients, 1/2 of the milk, and the vanilla.
  • Mix until the dry ingredients are moistened.
  • Add the rest of the milk.
  • Beat for 2 minutes with an electric mixer or 300 strokes by hand.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Milk

  • Add the eggs and the rest of the milk.
  • Beat for 1 minute with a mixer or 150 strokes by hand.

Step 5: Bake

  • Pour the batter into two greased and paper-lined 8-inch round cake pans or one 13x8-inch pan.
  • Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Tips

  • Add a simple vanilla or cream cheese frosting for a classic layered cake finish.
  • Replace part of the milk with buttermilk for extra tenderness.
  • Fold in finely chopped pecans or walnuts for texture.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon to highlight the graham cracker flavor.
  • Substitute butter for shortening for richer flavor.
  • Layer with whipped cream and berries for a lighter variation.
  • Bake as a single 9×13 cake for easier serving.
  • Add chocolate chips for a s’mores-inspired twist.
  • Use dark brown sugar for deeper caramel notes.
  • Frost with chocolate icing for a retro combination.

Nutrition

Calories: 321kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 4gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 35mgSodium: 328mgPotassium: 95mgFiber: 1gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 78IUVitamin C: 0.4mgCalcium: 121mgIron: 2mg
Keyword classic recipes, comfort food, graham cracker cake, heritage recipes, layered cake, retro recipes, vintage baking
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