Vanilla Wafer Cake recipe is a rich, buttery dessert made using crushed vanilla wafers instead of flour. The cake is packed full of coconut, pecans, and a deep homemade flavor.
This cake tastes incredibly moist and sweet, making every bite delicious. People often make this vanilla wafer cake recipe while watching family cooking shows or sharing recipes at church gatherings.
The best time to get inspired to bake it is during the holidays or weekend get-togethers. Now I will explain how to make Vanilla Wafer Cake step by step, using simple ingredients and easy kitchen methods for a truly satisfying treat.
Why Are Vanilla Wafers So Good?
Vanilla wafers are so good because they strike the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nostalgia. Their light, crisp bite with a hint of real vanilla makes them incredibly satisfying whether eaten alone or added to desserts.
The subtle sweetness isn’t overpowering, which makes them versatile for everything from banana pudding to crusts and cakes.
They’re also easy to snack on, melt in your mouth slightly, and remind many people of childhood treats or family recipes.
Simple ingredients, familiar flavor, and just the right crunch make vanilla wafers a comforting classic that’s hard to resist.
How To Prepare Vanilla Wafer Cake Recipe
Recipe Details
Preparation Time:Â 15 minutes
Cooking Time:Â 1 hour
Course:Â Dessert
Cuisine:Â American
Yield:Â 12 slices
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer (or hand whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Bundt pan or 9×13-inch baking dish
- Cooling rack
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
Ingredients
- 1 (11 oz) box Nilla Wafers, crushed into fine crumbs
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard-size bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish, depending on your preference. This cake has a dense, moist texture so good greasing is important to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3 to 5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Step 3:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps build structure and adds richness to the batter.
Step 4:
Gradually mix in the crushed Nilla wafers. There’s no need for traditional flour in this recipe the cookie crumbs act as the base and give the cake a unique flavor and texture.
Step 5:
Stir in the milk, then fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Mix until everything is evenly distributed in the batter. Add the vanilla extract and stir again to combine.
Step 6:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Step 7:
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cake in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.
Special Note:
This cake is rich and moist, almost like a pound cake with a coconut-pecan twist. It’s great for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy weekend treat. It keeps well for several days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. You can store leftovers covered at room temperature or in the fridge for longer freshness.
Nutrition Facts Vanilla Wafer Cake Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 450 |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Sugar | 35g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Sodium | 200mg |
Why My Recipe Works
Your recipe works because it builds flavor and texture from smart, simple ingredients that complement each other perfectly.
Crushed vanilla wafers replace flour, giving the cake a rich, buttery base that holds moisture well. Eggs provide structure and richness, while butter and sugar create that soft, dense crumb.
The shredded coconut adds chewiness and a touch of sweetness, and pecans bring a nutty crunch that balances it all out.
Milk helps smooth and bind the batter, and vanilla extract ties everything together with a warm depth. Every ingredient has a role, and together they make a cake that just works.
Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?
This vanilla wafer cake recipe is a must-try because it turns everyday ingredients into something rich, moist, and full of flavor.
Crushed vanilla wafers take the place of flour, giving the vanilla wafer cake recipe a unique taste and dense texture that stands out from typical cakes.
The coconut adds a soft chew, while pecans bring a slight crunch in every slice. Sweet, buttery, and comforting, this vanilla wafer cake recipe has an old-fashioned charm that reminds many of home baking.
Once baked and cooled, the cake slices beautifully and stays fresh for days. One taste is enough to see why people keep coming back to this vanilla wafer cake recipe.
Amazing Serving Ideas
Vanilla Wafer Cake can be served in creative and delicious ways that bring out its rich flavor and moist texture. Try pairing it with fresh seasonal berries like strawberries or blueberries to add a bright, tangy contrast.
A light dusting of powdered sugar gives it a simple, elegant finish that’s great for casual or formal settings.
You can also cube leftover slices and layer them with fruit and pudding in a glass to create a beautiful trifle or parfait, turning simple ingredients into a visually stunning and crowd-pleasing dessert.
When to Serve
Vanilla wafer cake recipe is a versatile dessert that fits beautifully into many occasions. Serve it during the holidays, especially Thanksgiving or Christmas, when rich, nostalgic flavors are most appreciated.
It’s also a favorite at potlucks, family reunions, and Sunday dinners, where homemade treats are always welcomed. This cake travels well, making it a great option for picnics or gatherings.
It’s also perfect for casual coffee breaks or afternoon snacks. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a quiet moment at home, this vanilla wafer cake recipe brings warmth to the table any time.
Additions And Variations
1. Chocolate Chips: Stir in ½ to 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a richer, sweeter twist that pairs perfectly with the vanilla and pecans.
2. Dried Fruit: Add chopped dried pineapple, raisins, or dried cherries for a chewy, fruity bite that complements the coconut.
3. Spices: Mix in ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to give the cake a warm, spiced flavor especially nice during fall or holiday baking.
4. Glaze Topping: After baking, pour a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk or lemon juice over the cooled cake for added sweetness and shine.
5. Crushed Pineapple: Fold in ½ cup of well-drained crushed pineapple to give the cake extra moisture and a tropical flavor boost.
Storage & Make Ahead
Vanilla wafer cake recipe can be made ahead and stored easily. After baking and cooling completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
Store at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for up to a week to keep it fresh longer. For longer storage, freeze the cake well-wrapped for up to two months.
Conclusion
Making this vanilla wafer cake recipe was such a rewarding experience, and I truly enjoyed every step of the process. The flavors came together beautifully, creating a moist and flavorful cake that felt both comforting and special.
I hope this vanilla wafer cake recipe inspires you to give it a try in your own kitchen. It’s a wonderful way to treat yourself or share something sweet with loved ones.
Once you make it, I believe you’ll appreciate how easy and delicious this vanilla wafer cake recipe can be. Enjoy baking and savor every bite!
Vanilla Wafer Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or hand whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Bundt pan
- Cooling rack
- Toothpick (for testing doneness)
Ingredients Â
- 1 11 oz box Nilla Wafers, crushed into fine crumbs
- 6 large eggs
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 1½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 cup pecans roughly chopped
- 1½ teaspoons pure vanilla extract
InstructionsÂ
Step 1:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard-size bundt pan, depending on your preference. This cake has a dense, moist texture so good greasing is important to prevent sticking.
Step 2:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This will take about 3 to 5 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
Step 3:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps build structure and adds richness to the batter.
Step 4:
- Gradually mix in the crushed Nilla wafers. There’s no need for traditional flour in this recipe the cookie crumbs act as the base and give the cake a unique flavor and texture.
Step 5:
- Stir in the milk, then fold in the shredded coconut and chopped pecans. Mix until everything is evenly distributed in the batter. Add the vanilla extract and stir again to combine.
Step 6:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Step 7:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool the cake in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.