Georgia Pecan Cake

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, giving it structure.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right, with a slight edge to balance the richness of the butter.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise to create a light and fluffy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Adds a slight lift and helps the cake brown evenly.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 cup sour cream: Contributes to the cake’s moist texture and adds a hint of tang.
• 4 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and warmth to the flavor.
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans: These will be mixed into the batter to provide that signature crunch and nutty flavor.

For the Glaze (Optional but Highly Recommended):

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Adds a rich, golden sheen to the glaze.
• 1/2 cup brown sugar: Sweetens the glaze and adds a caramel-like flavor.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Gives the glaze a silky, smooth consistency.
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and flavor of the glaze.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans: For garnish and added texture to the top of the cake.

How to Make Georgia Pecan Cake

Making Georgia Pecan Cake is straightforward and doesn’t require any special techniques. Just follow these simple steps to create this delicious dessert from scratch.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or two 8-inch round cake pans (depending on your preference for a layered cake). Line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This helps ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before combining them with the wet ingredients.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy. This step typically takes about 3-5 minutes. The more you beat the butter and sugar, the more air you’ll incorporate, which results in a lighter cake texture.

4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. This will help form the base of the batter.

5. Add the Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the sour cream and the dry ingredients (flour mixture) to the butter mixture. Begin with one-third of the dry ingredients, followed by half of the sour cream. Mix until just combined, then repeat with the remaining ingredients. Be careful not to overmix the batter to maintain a light texture.

6. Fold in the Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans using a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan(s) and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. If you’re using two pans, check them around 25 minutes to ensure even baking. Once done, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

8. Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

While the cake cools, you can make the optional glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sugar to dissolve and the mixture to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Let the glaze cool for a few minutes before drizzling it over the cooled cake.

9. Assemble the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, you can either drizzle the glaze over the entire cake or slice the cake into layers and pour the glaze between the layers. Garnish the top with the remaining chopped pecans.

10. Serve and Enjoy

Slice and serve the cake immediately, or let it sit for a bit to allow the flavors to meld. Enjoy with a cup of coffee, a glass of iced tea, or on its own for a sweet treat.

Tips for the Perfect Georgia Pecan Cake

• Use Fresh Pecans: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality pecans. If possible, toast them lightly before adding to the batter to bring out their full flavor.
• Don’t Overmix: When incorporating the wet and dry ingredients, be sure to mix just until combined. Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake.
• Optional Layer Cake: If you prefer a layered cake, you can bake the batter in two pans, then frost or glaze each layer for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation.
• Make-Ahead Option: This cake can be made a day or two in advance, as it stays moist and flavorful. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Why Georgia Pecan Cake is So Special

Georgia Pecan Cake embodies the best of Southern baking: it’s simple, comforting, and full of flavor. The combination of rich butter, tangy sour cream, and crunchy pecans makes this cake a showstopper, perfect for family dinners, holidays, or any occasion when you want to bring a little Southern charm to the table.

The cake’s balance of flavors is what makes it so irresistible, with the natural sweetness of the pecans complementing the moist, buttery crumb. The optional glaze adds a touch of extra sweetness, but even without it, this cake shines on its own.

Whether you’re from Georgia or simply a fan of Southern desserts, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

In Conclusion

If you haven’t yet tried Georgia Pecan Cake, it’s time to bake up this Southern classic. With its rich flavor, moist crumb, and signature crunch from the pecans, it’s a dessert that’s bound to become a hit at any gathering. Easy to make and full of flavor, this cake is a true representation of Georgia’s love for pecans—and a perfect way to celebrate the simple pleasures of Southern baking. Happy baking!