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Delicious Graham Cracker Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Graham Cracker Cake: A Deliciously Sweet and Simple Recipe Graham Cracker Cake is a nostalgic and delicious dessert that combines the unique flavor of graham crackers with a rich, creamy frosting. This cake is perfect for those who enjoy simple

By Jessica Brown

Updated on March 16, 2025

Graham Cracker Cake

Graham Cracker Cake: A Deliciously Sweet and Simple Recipe

Graham Cracker Cake is a nostalgic and delicious dessert that combines the unique flavor of graham crackers with a rich, creamy frosting. This cake is perfect for those who enjoy simple yet flavorful desserts that don’t require a lot of time or ingredients. The graham cracker crumbs provide a sweet, slightly crumbly texture, while the creamy frosting adds a perfect finishing touch. In this article, we will walk you through the easy steps of making this delightful cake, along with tips, storage advice, and dietary adaptations.

Before diving into the recipe, check out these related resources to enhance your baking knowledge:


Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

This Graham Cracker Cake is simple to prepare with common pantry ingredients. Here’s what you need to get started:

Print
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Graham Cracker Cake

Delicious Graham Cracker Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting


  • Author: Jennifer Mitchell
  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes (including cooling time)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Graham Cracker Cake is a unique and delicious dessert that features a light, moist cake made from graham cracker crumbs. Topped with a creamy, cinnamon-infused cream cheese frosting, this cake offers a perfect balance of flavors with a touch of sweetness and a subtle crunch. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1/3 cup canola oil
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 11/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  • Make the Cake Batter:
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the canola oil, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
  • Bake the Cake:
  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prepare the Frosting:
  • In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, then beat until the frosting is fluffy and well-combined. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more cream to reach your desired consistency.
  • Frost the Cake:
  • Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
  • If desired, garnish with additional cinnamon or graham cracker crumbs for a decorative touch.
  • Serve:
  • Slice and serve this delicious, moist Graham Cracker Cake. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!

Notes

The graham cracker crumbs give this cake a distinct flavor, but if you want a richer texture, you can add a handful of crushed nuts (like walnuts or pecans) into the batter.

You can also add a touch of honey to the frosting for an extra layer of sweetness.

Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the frosting fresh.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Cake
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Graham Cracker Cake

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the canola oil, sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a bit more heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can decorate it with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor or garnish it with additional graham cracker crumbs for a crunchy texture.

Advanced Techniques

To make your Graham Cracker Cake even more impressive, try these advanced techniques:

1. Achieving the Perfect Cake Texture

To ensure the cake is light and fluffy, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a dense texture. Mix just until combined for the perfect crumbly cake texture.

2. Cream Cheese Frosting Tips

To achieve a smooth and creamy frosting, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature. Cold cream cheese can cause lumps in the frosting. For a more stable frosting, you can chill the cream cheese for 30 minutes before mixing.

3. Adding Layers

For a more dramatic presentation, consider making this cake as a layered cake. Simply double the recipe and bake two 8-inch cakes. Once they have cooled, layer them with frosting in between, and finish by covering the whole cake with frosting.

4. Flavored Variations

You can infuse your frosting with different flavors to enhance the taste. For example, you can add lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist. You can also incorporate a bit of crushed graham crackers into the frosting for added texture.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Graham Cracker Cake


Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Proper storage will keep your Graham Cracker Cake fresh for longer. Here’s how to store it:

Storage

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Be sure to keep the cake tightly covered to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

To freeze the cake, first, make sure it’s completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store it in a freezer-safe container. The cake will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let the cake thaw at room temperature before serving.

Maintaining the Frosting

If the frosting becomes too soft due to the warm weather or if it’s been sitting for a while, you can chill it for about 30 minutes before applying it to the cake. This will help it firm up and hold its shape.


Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, there are several substitutions you can make without compromising the flavor:

Gluten-Free Graham Cracker Cake

To make this cake gluten-free, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure the baking powder is gluten-free as well.

Dairy-Free Option

For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy cream cheese and coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream for the frosting. You can also substitute the sour cream with a non-dairy yogurt alternative.

Vegan Version

To make this cake vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), use a plant-based sour cream, and ensure that the frosting uses a vegan cream cheese and non-dairy whipping cream.

Low-Sugar Adaptation

If you want to reduce the sugar content, you can use a sugar substitute such as stevia or erythritol in place of the sugar. Just keep in mind that this may alter the texture and sweetness.


FAQs About The Recipe

1. Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, you can experiment with different frosting types such as whipped cream or buttercream. However, cream cheese frosting pairs best with the flavors of the cake.

2. How can I make the frosting thicker?

If the frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar to thicken it. If you prefer a lighter texture, reduce the amount of powdered sugar or add more heavy cream.

3. Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. Bake the cake and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Frost it just before serving.

4. Can I use graham cracker crumbs from store-bought crackers?

Yes, store-bought graham cracker crumbs are perfect for this recipe. Just be sure to measure the crumbs accurately to ensure the right consistency.


Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Graham Cracker Cake is a simple, delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, bringing it to a party, or just indulging in a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to be a hit. With the easy-to-follow instructions, storage tips, and dietary adaptations, you can customize this cake to suit your needs. Enjoy baking and delight in every bite of this flavorful, graham cracker-infused dessert!

Graham Cracker Cake

Graham Cracker Cake: A Deliciously Sweet and Simple Recipe

Graham Cracker Cake is a nostalgic and delicious dessert that combines the unique flavor of graham crackers with a rich, creamy frosting. This cake is perfect for those who enjoy simple yet flavorful desserts that don’t require a lot of time or ingredients. The graham cracker crumbs provide a sweet, slightly crumbly texture, while the creamy frosting adds a perfect finishing touch. In this article, we will walk you through the easy steps of making this delightful cake, along with tips, storage advice, and dietary adaptations.

Before diving into the recipe, check out these related resources to enhance your baking knowledge:


Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

This Graham Cracker Cake is simple to prepare with common pantry ingredients. Here’s what you need to get started:

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Graham Cracker Cake

Delicious Graham Cracker Cake Recipe with Cream Cheese Frosting


  • Author: Jennifer Mitchell
  • Total Time: 45-50 minutes (including cooling time)
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Graham Cracker Cake is a unique and delicious dessert that features a light, moist cake made from graham cracker crumbs. Topped with a creamy, cinnamon-infused cream cheese frosting, this cake offers a perfect balance of flavors with a touch of sweetness and a subtle crunch. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 1/3 cup canola oil
  • 1/4 cup sugar
  • 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup graham cracker crumbs
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting:

  • 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 11/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  • Preheat the Oven:
  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  • Make the Cake Batter:
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the canola oil, sugar, brown sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
  • In a separate bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
  • Bake the Cake:
  • Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  • Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  • Prepare the Frosting:
  • In a medium mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and confectioners’ sugar until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, then beat until the frosting is fluffy and well-combined. If it’s too thick, you can add a little more cream to reach your desired consistency.
  • Frost the Cake:
  • Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
  • If desired, garnish with additional cinnamon or graham cracker crumbs for a decorative touch.
  • Serve:
  • Slice and serve this delicious, moist Graham Cracker Cake. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea!

Notes

The graham cracker crumbs give this cake a distinct flavor, but if you want a richer texture, you can add a handful of crushed nuts (like walnuts or pecans) into the batter.

You can also add a touch of honey to the frosting for an extra layer of sweetness.

Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the frosting fresh.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert, Cake
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice
  • Calories: 280
  • Sugar: 24g
  • Sodium: 200mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 31g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

Keywords: Graham Cracker Cake

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat together the canola oil, sugar, brown sugar, and eggs until smooth and creamy. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, and continue to mix until fully incorporated.
  3. Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  4. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
  5. Prepare the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, heavy whipping cream, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a bit more heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
  6. Frost the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can decorate it with a sprinkle of cinnamon for added flavor or garnish it with additional graham cracker crumbs for a crunchy texture.

Advanced Techniques

To make your Graham Cracker Cake even more impressive, try these advanced techniques:

1. Achieving the Perfect Cake Texture

To ensure the cake is light and fluffy, be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can result in a dense texture. Mix just until combined for the perfect crumbly cake texture.

2. Cream Cheese Frosting Tips

To achieve a smooth and creamy frosting, make sure the cream cheese is at room temperature. Cold cream cheese can cause lumps in the frosting. For a more stable frosting, you can chill the cream cheese for 30 minutes before mixing.

3. Adding Layers

For a more dramatic presentation, consider making this cake as a layered cake. Simply double the recipe and bake two 8-inch cakes. Once they have cooled, layer them with frosting in between, and finish by covering the whole cake with frosting.

4. Flavored Variations

You can infuse your frosting with different flavors to enhance the taste. For example, you can add lemon zest or almond extract for a unique twist. You can also incorporate a bit of crushed graham crackers into the frosting for added texture.

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Graham Cracker Cake


Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Proper storage will keep your Graham Cracker Cake fresh for longer. Here’s how to store it:

Storage

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you have leftovers, you can refrigerate them for up to 5 days. Be sure to keep the cake tightly covered to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

To freeze the cake, first, make sure it’s completely cooled. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store it in a freezer-safe container. The cake will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let the cake thaw at room temperature before serving.

Maintaining the Frosting

If the frosting becomes too soft due to the warm weather or if it’s been sitting for a while, you can chill it for about 30 minutes before applying it to the cake. This will help it firm up and hold its shape.


Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, there are several substitutions you can make without compromising the flavor:

Gluten-Free Graham Cracker Cake

To make this cake gluten-free, use gluten-free graham cracker crumbs and replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure the baking powder is gluten-free as well.

Dairy-Free Option

For a dairy-free version, use a non-dairy cream cheese and coconut cream or a dairy-free whipping cream for the frosting. You can also substitute the sour cream with a non-dairy yogurt alternative.

Vegan Version

To make this cake vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water), use a plant-based sour cream, and ensure that the frosting uses a vegan cream cheese and non-dairy whipping cream.

Low-Sugar Adaptation

If you want to reduce the sugar content, you can use a sugar substitute such as stevia or erythritol in place of the sugar. Just keep in mind that this may alter the texture and sweetness.


FAQs About The Recipe

1. Can I use a different type of frosting?

Yes, you can experiment with different frosting types such as whipped cream or buttercream. However, cream cheese frosting pairs best with the flavors of the cake.

2. How can I make the frosting thicker?

If the frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar to thicken it. If you prefer a lighter texture, reduce the amount of powdered sugar or add more heavy cream.

3. Can I make the cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the cake ahead of time. Bake the cake and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Frost it just before serving.

4. Can I use graham cracker crumbs from store-bought crackers?

Yes, store-bought graham cracker crumbs are perfect for this recipe. Just be sure to measure the crumbs accurately to ensure the right consistency.


Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Graham Cracker Cake is a simple, delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, bringing it to a party, or just indulging in a sweet treat at home, this cake is sure to be a hit. With the easy-to-follow instructions, storage tips, and dietary adaptations, you can customize this cake to suit your needs. Enjoy baking and delight in every bite of this flavorful, graham cracker-infused dessert!

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