Classic Southern Pecan Cake

Classic Southern Pecan Cake

How to Make a Classic Southern Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Southern pecan cake, adorned with a rich cream cheese frosting and topped with toasted pecans,

is the epitome of comfort and indulgence. Perfect for any celebration or simply to satisfy a sweet

craving, this cake combines moist, nutty layers with a tangy, creamy frosting that is sure to impress.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to create this delectable dessert.

Ingredients

For the Cake

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

2 cups granulated sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

1/2 cup sour cream

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)

1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

16 ounces cream cheese, softened

1 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted (for topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts.

Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk and sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.

Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Divide Batter: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.

Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top. Repeat with the second and third layers.

Frost the Sides: Use the remaining frosting to cover the sides of the cake.

Garnish: Sprinkle the top of the cake with the toasted pecans.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Chill: For best results, chill the cake for at least an hour before serving to allow the frosting to set.

Slice and Serve: Slice the cake and serve with a cup of coffee or a glass of milk. Enjoy the rich, nutty flavors and creamy frosting.

Tips for the Perfect Pecan Cake

Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 6-8 minutes, stirring once.

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients (butter, eggs, cream cheese) are at room temperature before mixing. This helps achieve a smooth and evenly mixed batter and frosting.

Preventing a Dense Cake: Avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.

Conclusion

This Southern pecan cake with cream cheese frosting is a timeless dessert that combines rich flavors

and textures. Whether for a special occasion or a delightful everyday treat, this cake is sure to become

a favorite. The moist cake layers, studded with toasted pecans and enveloped in creamy frosting,

create a delicious experience that celebrates the best of Southern baking. Enjoy baking and indulging in this classic treat!