This old-fashioned Vanilla Wafer Cake is a Southern favorite that’s as easy as it is delicious. Instead of flour, this recipe uses crushed Nilla wafers to create a moist, dense, buttery cake loaded with coconut and pecans. It’s perfect for potlucks, holidays, or Sunday desserts — and it smells heavenly as it bakes!
Ingredients
- 2 cups crushed vanilla wafers (about 60 cookies)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ¾ cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a bundt pan or tube pan. - Crush the Vanilla Wafers
Place vanilla wafers in a food processor or sealable bag and crush finely — you should have about 2 cups. - Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract. - Add Dry Ingredients
Mix in the crushed wafers and baking powder, alternating with milk, until fully combined. - Fold in Add-Ins
Stir in coconut and pecans until evenly distributed. - Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. - Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with glaze if desired.
Optional Glaze (for extra sweetness)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix until smooth and drizzle over cooled cake.
Storage
Store covered at room temperature for up to 4 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Can be frozen (tightly wrapped) for up to 2 months.
Why You’ll Love It
- Uses simple pantry ingredients (no flour needed!)
- Sweet, nutty, and perfectly moist
- Great make-ahead dessert — flavor deepens after a day
FAQ
Q: Can I substitute another cookie for vanilla wafers?
Yes, shortbread or graham crackers can work, but Nilla wafers give the best flavor.
Q: Can I add pineapple?
Yes! Add ½ cup crushed pineapple (drained) for a tropical twist.
Q: Do I need to frost it?
Not at all — it’s delicious plain or with a light glaze.
Conclusion
This Vanilla Wafer Cake brings back the charm of classic Southern baking — sweet, simple, and unforgettable. Each slice is filled with buttery richness, coconut, and pecans, making it a timeless dessert for any gathering.
