Hawaiian Graham Cracker Cake

Prep: 20 min Cuisine: American

A moist, tropical-inspired cake combining graham crackers, crushed pineapple, coconut, and nuts for a flavorful dessert perfect for gatherings and special occasions.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 c. sugar
  • 2 sticks margarine
  • 1 pkg. graham cracker crumbs (13 3/4 oz.)
  • 5 eggs
  • 1 tsp. vanilla
  • 1 c. milk
  • 2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1 c. well drained crushed pineapple
  • 1 c. Angel Flake coconut
  • 1 c. chopped nuts

Instructions

  1. Mix eggs, sugar, margarine, milk, and vanilla together.
  2. Stir in graham cracker crumbs and baking powder until well combined.
  3. Fold in chopped nuts, crushed pineapple, and coconut.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, consider substituting half of the margarine with unsweetened applesauce. This will reduce the fat content while still maintaining moisture. You can also use low-fat or non-dairy milk if you're looking for a dairy-free option. Be sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors. If you want extra texture, try adding shredded carrots or zucchini.

Serving Suggestions

This Hawaiian Graham Cracker Cake makes a delightful dessert for any gathering. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with Cherry Delight(Makes Two Pies) for a tropical-themed dessert table. Consider adding a fresh fruit salad on the side for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can enjoy it cold, as the flavors meld beautifully after a day in the fridge.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Hawaiian Graham Cracker Cake contains roughly 1023 calories, with 7g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), calcium (43% of the Daily Value), and iron (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1081mg per serving (47% of the Daily Value).

1023 kcal 51% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7g 14% DV
Total Fat 56.3g 72% DV
Carbs 95.7g 35% DV
Fiber 6g 21% DV
Sugar 34.7g 69% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1080.8mg 47% DV
Potassium 629.9mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 6.8mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 114.3mcg 13% DV
Vitamin C 57.2mg 64% DV
Vitamin D 1mcg 5% DV
Calcium 559.6mg 43% DV
Iron 5.2mg 29% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 use regular flour instead of graham cracker crumbs?

While graham cracker crumbs are essential for the unique flavor and texture of this cake, you can experiment with crushed digestive biscuits or a gluten-free alternative if necessary. Keep in mind that the taste and texture may vary slightly.

How can I make this cake more tropical?

To enhance the tropical flavors, consider adding diced mango or banana to the batter along with the crushed pineapple. A splash of coconut extract can also amplify the coconut flavor, making it even more exotic.

What type of nuts work best in this recipe?

Chopped walnuts or pecans are great choices for this cake, adding a nice crunch. If you prefer a sweeter touch, try using macadamia nuts, which will complement the tropical flavors perfectly.

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).

American recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →