Georgia Pecan Cake: A Southern Classic
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Introduction: A Southern Delight
Indulge in the rich flavors of the South with this Georgia Pecan Cake! This moist and flavorful cake, studded with crunchy pecans and topped with a luscious buttery glaze, is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a slice of comfort, this cake brings a taste of Georgia right to your table.
Why You’ll Love Georgia Pecan Cake
- Nutty Goodness: Packed with toasted pecans, this cake offers a delightful crunch in every bite.
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of butter, sugar, and eggs creates a wonderfully moist texture that will keep you coming back for more.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a dessert, breakfast treat, or snack with your afternoon tea or coffee.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this cake is a breeze to whip up.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
For the Glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for topping)
How to Make Georgia Pecan Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the toasted pecans.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Make the Glaze
While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. Remove from heat.
Step 8: Glaze the Cake
Once the cake is baked and cooled slightly, poke holes all over the top with a toothpick. Pour the warm glaze over the cake, allowing it to soak in. Top with additional chopped pecans.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices of Georgia Pecan Cake warm or at room temperature, plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.
- Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
- Enjoy a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a sweet start to the day.
Tips for Perfect Georgia Pecan Cake
- Toast Your Pecans: For enhanced flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until fragrant.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined to ensure a light, tender cake.
- Storage: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different nut?
Yes! Feel free to substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different twist.
Q: Is there a gluten-free option?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
Yes! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.