You Always Ask For Seconds
A rich, layered dessert featuring graham crackers, coconut, pecans, and a sweet vanilla filling, perfect for satisfying sweet tooth cravings and suitable for gatherings or family treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Line a 9 x 11-inch pan with whole graham crackers.
- Combine 1 cup sugar, 1/2 cup milk, 1 egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla in a saucepan and cook until thickened.
- Add 1 cup graham cracker crumbs, 1 cup pecans, and 1 cup coconut to the mixture and stir well.
- Spread this warm mixture over the layer of graham crackers in the pan.
- Cover with a large layer of graham crackers.
- Mix 1 cup powdered sugar, 1/4 cup milk, and 1 teaspoon vanilla until smooth.
- Spread this icing on top of the layered crackers.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using dark brown sugar instead of white sugar. You can also substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty taste. If you prefer a chocolatey twist, add mini chocolate chips to the mixture. Ensure the mixture is warm when spreading it over the graham crackers for easier layering.
Serving Suggestions
This treat is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Consider serving it alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast. For a delightful twist, drizzle with chocolate sauce or top with whipped cream. It’s a great addition to dessert tables alongside other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, refrigerate for up to a week. To reheat, lightly warm in the microwave for a few seconds or place in a preheated oven at 350°F until just warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of You Always Ask For Seconds contains roughly 1259 calories, with 16g protein, 128g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 592mg per serving (26% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the layers and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble and frost just before serving to keep the graham crackers crisp. This can be done a day in advance for convenience.
What can I use instead of egg for a vegan version?
You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture. Combine 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal or chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken, and use it as a replacement for one egg.
How do I know when the cooking mixture is thick enough?
The mixture is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds a line when you run your finger through it. It should be thick but still pourable. Be sure to stir constantly to prevent burning.
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).