Indulge in the comforting flavors of the South with this Southern Classic Cinnamon Pecan Cake—a delightful treat that brings together the rich, nutty taste of pecans with the warm, aromatic essence of cinnamon. Perfect for any occasion, this cake boasts a moist and tender crumb that will leave you craving more.
At the heart of this recipe is a blend of classic ingredients that come together to create a truly memorable dessert. The cake is made with a combination of all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar, which gives it a perfect balance of sweetness and a slight caramel undertone. The addition of ground cinnamon throughout the cake adds a cozy warmth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
The cake is beautifully adorned with a cinnamon-sugar swirl that creates a delightful ribbon of spiced sweetness throughout each slice. This simple yet elegant touch not only elevates the cake’s flavor but also adds a visually appealing element.
Chopped pecans are folded into the batter, giving each bite a satisfying crunch and a burst of nutty goodness. For an extra touch of decadence, the cake can be topped with a light glaze made from powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract, which adds a subtle sweetness and a glossy finish.
This cake is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed as a simple afternoon treat with a cup of tea or coffee, or served as a delightful dessert at gatherings and special occasions. Its moist texture and rich flavors make it a standout choice that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.
For best results, allow the cake to cool completely before adding the optional glaze, which adds an extra layer of sweetness and makes it even more irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this Southern Classic Cinnamon Pecan Cake is a delightful recipe that combines traditional flavors with a touch of Southern hospitality.
Ready to bring a slice of the South into your kitchen? Follow the recipe and treat yourself to a piece of this scrumptious Cinnamon Pecan Cake.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Cinnamon Swirl:
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
For the Glaze (optional):
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl:
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Incorporate Pecans:
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Layer the Cake:
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top and sprinkle with the remaining cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Glaze (Optional):
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Tips:
- Butter Temperature: Ensure the butter is softened to room temperature for a smooth batter.
- Pecans: Toasting the pecans before chopping them can enhance their flavor and crunch.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can use milk with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar.
- Cake Testing: To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Enjoy your Southern Classic Cinnamon Pecan Cake, a delightful treat that blends classic flavors with a touch of Southern charm!
