Are you craving the divine combination of a pecan pie and a delightful, moist cake? Look no further because this Pecan Pie Cake recipe masterfully marries the two beloved desserts into one irresistible creation. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a festive holiday feast, or just an evening where you want to pamper yourself with something special, this cake is sure to bring joy and satisfaction with every bite. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its decadent flavors but also in its simplicity, making it accessible for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. So prepare to be enchanted by the rich, nutty accents and the wonderful, soft texture of this Southern classic.

This Pecan Pie Cake is not only delicious but also bears the hallmark of Southern hospitality, bringing everyone around the table together in sweet appreciation. The blend of a traditional yellow cake crowned with a luscious pecan pie filling creates layers of tastes and textures that will have you reaching for another slice. And the best part? This heavenly dessert can be made in just over an hour, making it a go-to recipe when you want an effortless yet impressive dessert. The ingredients are simple, the steps are straightforward, and the result? Absolutely divine.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Cake

If you’re still unsure about trying out this scrumptious dessert, here are more reasons why it’s worth every bite:

Unique Fusion: Experience the perfect combination of a pecan pie and a cake, offering two favorites in one bite.
Easy to Make: Simple steps and common ingredients make this recipe an easy addition to any baker’s repertoire.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings and holidays, this cake is a confectioner’s conversation starter.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before embarking on your baking journey, let’s ensure your kitchen is well-prepared for crafting this delightful Pecan Pie Cake. Start by clearing your counter space to allow plenty of room to move freely while combining ingredients and managing your baking tools. It’s crucial to have a well-organized space to facilitate a smoother cooking process.

For this recipe, the essential items include a large mixing bowl, a whisk, and a sturdy spoon. These tools will assist in integrating the ingredients smoothly for both the cake and the pecan pie filling. Also, ensure you have your oven preheated to precisely 350°F (175°C) for consistent baking results. The recipe requires a 9×13-inch baking pan, so make sure it’s generously greased to prevent sticking—a key step for an immaculate cake presentation.

Ingredients

1 box yellow cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup water
3 large eggs
1 cup light corn syrup
1 cup brown sugar, packed
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Oven & Batter

Kick off your baking process by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As your oven heats up, turn your attention to the cake batter. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with leftover melted butter, water, and the first set of eggs. Stir the mixture until you achieve a smooth batter consistency, ensuring no lumps remain. Once mixed, pour this batter evenly into your prepared 9×13-inch baking pan, making sure the entire bottom of the pan is covered.

Step 2: Initial Bake

Place the cake batter into your preheated oven and allow it to bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. The goal here is for the batter to start setting while maintaining some underbake to create a tacky base, necessary for the pecan layer to adhere properly. Keep a watchful eye to avoid overbaking during this phase.

Step 3: Craft the Pecan Filling

While your cake base is in the oven, it’s time to create the pecan pie filling. In a separate bowl, whisk together the light corn syrup, brown sugar, and melted butter with the second set of eggs. Stir in the vanilla extract and add a touch of salt before folding in the chopped pecans, ensuring even dispersion throughout the filling mixture.

Step 4: Combine Layers

After the initial baking time has elapsed for the cake base, carefully remove it from the oven. Pour the prepared pecan pie filling over the semi-baked cake, spreading it evenly for a consistent top layer. Ensure that each bite will receive a tasty pecan experience.

Step 5: Final Baking

Return the pan to the oven and continue baking for an additional 25 to 30 minutes. Watch closely for a golden top and slight bubbling, indicating it is perfectly baked. Allow the cake to cool and set properly once baked before attempting to slice, as this will aid in maintaining its layer integrity.

Variations

Protein: For a twist, consider adding crushed candied bacon bits in the pecan mix for a sweet-savory profile.
Vegetables: Give a healthy boost by incorporating finely shredded carrots into the batter, bringing additional moisture and subtle sweetness.
Spices: Sprinkle in a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a cozy, warm flavor that’s perfect for autumn nights.

Cooking Notes

Keep an eye on the texture of your batter to prevent overmixing, which could result in a denser cake.
The pecan layer should remain slightly sticky; do not expect it to firm up completely when cooled.
For a crustier finish, toast the pecans prior to mixing them into the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of warm and cold.
Pair with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for additional richness.

Tips

If short on time, consider preparing the pecan pie filling in advance and storing it in the fridge until needed.
Be mindful of ingredient temperature; room temperature eggs combine more smoothly, contributing to a silky batter.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 250mg

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake mix instead of boxed?

Absolutely! Simply substitute your homemade vanilla cake mix for the boxed option, maintaining the preparation instructions.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free butter substitutes and non-dairy milk in place of butter and milk without significantly altering the texture.

Can leftover cake be stored?

Definitely, the cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Can I freeze this cake?

It is possible to freeze up to two months; simply wrap tightly in plastic and foil to maintain freshness before thawing overnight in the fridge.

Conclusion

This Pecan Pie Cake elegantly captures the quintessence of nostalgic Southern desserts, offering an innovative twist on tradition. It’s a cake worth sharing and savoring over cherished moments with friends and family. So gather your loved ones and indulge in each delightful layer as you explore new culinary classics. Let me know how your baking went, or if you’ve got a twist on the recipe, I’d love to hear it in the comments below. Share your creation, the joy it brought, and be sure to pass on the love with others. Happy baking!