Graham Cracker Cake
Graham Cracker Cake is a delightful and nostalgic dessert that combines the crunch of graham crackers with a rich, buttery flavor. Enhanced with pecans, sweet coconut, and juicy maraschino cherries, this cake is perfect for gatherings, offering a unique twist on traditional cakes that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix sugar, eggs, and margarine in a bowl, then add crushed graham crackers.
- Stir in coconut, pecans, chopped maraschino cherries, and vanilla.
- Dissolve baking powder in the milk and pour into the batter.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using unsweetened applesauce in place of half the margarine. If you're not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds can be great substitutes. Ensure the graham crackers are finely crushed for a smoother batter. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors, and you can experiment with different extracts, like almond, for added depth. This cake pairs beautifully with Peach Pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Graham Cracker Cake warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Consider serving it alongside a fresh fruit salad or a light yogurt parfait for a balanced dessert experience. This dish also complements savory options like Sausage And Egg Quiche during brunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Graham Cracker Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice individual pieces and warm them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until just warm, ensuring they remain moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Graham Cracker Cake contains roughly 637 calories, with 6g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (23% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (22% of the Daily Value), and iron (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 530mg per serving (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the Graham Cracker Cake a day ahead. Just make sure to store it properly in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you're planning to serve it at a gathering, it can also be frozen for up to two months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
What can I substitute for margarine?
If you prefer a butter flavor, you can substitute margarine with unsalted butter in equal amounts. For a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a plant-based butter alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but the cake will still turn out delicious.
Can I use different types of nuts in this recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, feel free to swap them out for walnuts, almonds, or even pistachios, depending on your preference. Just chop them finely, and they will add a nice crunch to the cake. If you have nut allergies, you can omit them entirely without compromising the recipe.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).