Alabama Pecan Cake Recipe
Yield: 8–10 servings
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Bake Time: 45–50 minutes
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
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.
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.