Introduction
Welcome to the world of Southern Georgia Pecan Cake! This delightful dessert is a true representation of southern charm. With its rich texture and nutty flavor, it’s no wonder this cake has become a beloved favorite.
Imagine a moist cake, loaded with crunchy pecans, topped with a luscious glaze. Sounds heavenly, right? Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cake is the perfect choice.
Ingredients
To create this delicious Southern Georgia Pecan Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
These ingredients come together to create a cake that is both flavorful and satisfying. Don’t forget to gather everything before you start; it makes the process smoother!
Timing
Timing is everything in baking. Here’s what you need to know for your Southern Georgia Pecan Cake:
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Baking Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Make sure to keep an eye on the clock, especially while baking. You want that perfect golden color!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for even baking!
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan
Next, grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents the cake from sticking. Trust me, no one likes a cake that won’t come out!
Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Doing this helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes. You want to incorporate air for a light cake!
Step 5: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract. Your batter is already starting to smell amazing!
Step 6: Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Now, gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. This helps keep your batter smooth!
Step 7: Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans. This adds the signature crunch to your cake. Plus, who doesn’t love nuts?
Step 8: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once cooled, slice and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
For those of you watching your intake, here’s a rough idea of the nutritional information per slice (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 4g
Remember, moderation is key! Enjoy this cake as an occasional treat.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for ways to make this cake a bit healthier, here are some options:
- Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk for added protein.
- Reduce sugar by ¼ cup without sacrificing taste.
These alternatives can help you enjoy a slice of Southern Georgia Pecan Cake without the guilt!
Serving Suggestions
What’s a cake without the perfect accompaniments? Here are some serving suggestions:
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Pair with a cup of coffee for an afternoon treat.
- Top with whipped cream and fresh berries for a refreshing twist.
These options elevate your cake experience to the next level!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best bakers make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:
- Not measuring ingredients accurately. Baking is a science!
- Overmixing the batter. This can lead to a dense cake.
- Skipping the cooling step. Letting it cool ensures better slicing.
Avoiding these mistakes will help you create the perfect Southern Georgia Pecan Cake!
Storage Tips
Want to make your cake last longer? Follow these storage tips:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.
- For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a week.
- Freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to three months.
With proper storage, you can savor the taste of Southern Georgia Pecan Cake for weeks to come!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Southern Georgia Pecan Cake is a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of southern baking. Its rich flavor and moist texture make it a go-to dessert for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a masterpiece right in your kitchen.
So, gather your ingredients and get ready to impress your family and friends with this heavenly cake!
PrintHeavenly Southern Georgia Pecan Cake: A Slice of Southern Charm
Enjoy a delightful Southern Georgia Pecan Cake with a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty flavor.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in vanilla.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients with the buttermilk, starting and ending with dry ingredients.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Pour batter into the pan and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
- Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be used as substitutes. Just remember to chop them up.
How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it. Just cover it well to keep it fresh.
Final Thoughts
Thank you for joining me on this delicious journey to create the Southern Georgia Pecan Cake. I hope you find joy in both baking and sharing this delightful treat. Remember, every slice is a taste of southern charm!