Alabama Pecan Cake Recipe

Yield: 8–10 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Bake Time: 45–50 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• ½ cup buttermilk (or ½ cup milk + 1 tsp lemon juice)

• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Glaze (optional but traditional):

• ½ cup butter

• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed

• 3–4 tbsp milk

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ½ cup chopped pecans

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Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Pan

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).

• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

• Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Fold in Pecans

• Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans for a nutty flavor and texture.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

• Bake for 45–50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

• In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt ½ cup butter with ¼ cup brown sugar and 3–4 tbsp milk, stirring constantly.

• Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.

• Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and ½ cup chopped pecans.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake

• Pour the warm glaze evenly over the cooled cake.

• Allow the glaze to set for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

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Tips and Variations

• Extra Moist Cake: Brush the cake with 1–2 tbsp of simple syrup before adding glaze.

• Flavor Boost: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or a splash of bourbon to the batter.

• Nut-Free Option: Skip the pecans or replace them with shredded coconut.

• Serving Suggestion: Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.