Introduction to Pecan Pie Cake
As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something special in the kitchen. That’s why I absolutely adore this Pecan Pie Cake! It’s the perfect blend of a classic pecan pie and a moist cake, making it a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress your loved ones. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a quick solution for a busy day, this cake is a sweet escape. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
PrintPecan Pie Cake: Discover This Irresistible Recipe Today!
A delicious blend of pecan pie and cake, this Pecan Pie Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of pecans with a moist cake base.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup corn syrup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake pan.
- In another bowl, mix together the corn syrup, brown sugar, and remaining pecans.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the cake batter.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- This cake can be made a day in advance for better flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Cake
This Pecan Pie Cake is a game-changer for busy days! It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time. The rich, nutty flavor of pecans combined with the moist cake base creates a dessert that’s simply irresistible. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve at family gatherings or cozy nights in. You’ll love how it brings everyone together around the table, sharing smiles and sweet bites!
Ingredients for Pecan Pie Cake
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Pecan Pie Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
- All-purpose flour: This forms the cake’s base, giving it structure and a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create that lovely golden crust.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture, making the cake incredibly tender.
- Large eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients together and adding moisture.
- Vanilla extract: A splash of this brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise, giving it a light texture.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
- Chopped pecans: The star of the show! They add crunch and that signature nutty flavor.
- Corn syrup: This sweet syrup gives the cake its gooey, pie-like topping.
- Brown sugar: Adds a hint of caramel flavor and moisture to the topping.
- Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the pecans beautifully.
For those looking to switch things up, consider using walnuts instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor. You can also substitute maple syrup for corn syrup for a unique twist. Remember, the exact quantities are listed at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make Pecan Pie Cake
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful Pecan Pie Cake. Each step is simple, and I promise you’ll feel like a baking pro in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures even baking. If you skip this step, your cake might not rise properly, and we definitely want that fluffy texture!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This process is key for a tender cake. The air you incorporate helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it that perfect crumb.
Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Eggs provide moisture and richness, while vanilla adds a warm, inviting flavor that makes your cake irresistible.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. Mixing dry ingredients separately helps ensure that the baking powder is evenly distributed, which is essential for a well-risen cake.
Step 5: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this can lead to a dense cake. We want it light and airy, just like a cloud!
Step 6: Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans. Folding is a technique that helps maintain the airiness of the batter. You want those pecans evenly distributed without deflating all that lovely air you’ve worked so hard to create.
Step 7: Prepare the Pecan Topping
In another bowl, mix together the corn syrup, brown sugar, and the remaining pecans. This gooey topping is what makes this cake reminiscent of a classic pecan pie. It adds that sweet, sticky goodness we all love!
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into a greased cake pan, then pour the pecan topping over it. Bake for 45-50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready to shine!
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack. This cooling time is essential for the flavors to meld. Serve it warm or at room temperature, and don’t forget a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that extra touch!
Tips for Success
- Make sure your butter is softened for easy creaming.
- Use fresh pecans for the best flavor and crunch.
- Don’t skip the cooling step; it enhances the taste.
- For a richer flavor, let the cake sit overnight before serving.
- Experiment with spices like nutmeg for a unique twist!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowls: Use any size you have; a large bowl is ideal for mixing.
- Electric mixer: A hand mixer works great, but a stand mixer is even better.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accuracy; you can use a kitchen scale if preferred.
- Cake pan: A 9-inch round pan is perfect; a square pan works too!
- Cooling rack: If you don’t have one, a plate will do for cooling the cake.
Variations of Pecan Pie Cake
- Chocolate Pecan Pie Cake: Add chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, decadent twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
- Maple Pecan Pie Cake: Replace corn syrup with pure maple syrup for a unique flavor profile.
- Spiced Pecan Pie Cake: Incorporate nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- Vegan Pecan Pie Cake: Use flax eggs and coconut oil instead of eggs and butter for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions for Pecan Pie Cake
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
- Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Accompany with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy experience.
- Garnish with fresh pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs about Pecan Pie Cake
Can I make Pecan Pie Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake can be made a day in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight enhances the flavors, making it even more delicious!
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Can I freeze Pecan Pie Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh for up to three months. Just thaw it in the fridge before serving.
What can I serve with Pecan Pie Cake?
This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. A hot cup of coffee or tea makes for a perfect accompaniment!
Can I use different nuts in this recipe?
Definitely! While pecans are the star, you can substitute walnuts or even almonds for a different flavor profile. Just make sure to chop them up for even distribution!
Final Thoughts
Making this Pecan Pie Cake is more than just baking; it’s about creating sweet memories with your loved ones. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, eager to share a slice. Each bite is a perfect blend of moist cake and crunchy pecans, bringing smiles and warmth to your home. Whether it’s a special occasion or a simple family dinner, this cake is sure to be a hit. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of baking, and let this Pecan Pie Cake become a cherished part of your family traditions!