Southern Georgia Pecan Cake

Category: Decadent Desserts

Traditional Southern cake with toasted pecans, two moist layers, and creamy frosting. Takes 55 minutes total. Great for special occasions or holiday dessert.
Sarah
Created By Sarah John
Updated on Wed, 12 Feb 2025 19:36:14 GMT
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Southern Georgia Pecan Cake captures the essence of traditional Southern baking in every tender, nutty bite. This beloved dessert combines buttery toasted pecans with moist, vanilla-scented cake layers and a silky-smooth frosting. The result is a celebration of Georgia's most treasured nut, transformed into an indulgent masterpiece that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering.

My journey with this recipe began during a summer visit to Georgia, where I learned the importance of properly toasting the pecans from a local baker. She shared that this simple step transforms both the texture and flavor, creating that signature Southern taste that makes this cake unforgettable.

Essential Ingredients Guide

  • Pecans: Choose fresh, high-quality nuts without any bitter or rancid notes
  • All-Purpose Flour: Select unbleached flour for the best texture and flavor
  • Unsalted Butter: Room temperature butter ensures proper creaming and even distribution
  • Sour Cream: Full-fat provides moisture and tenderness to the cake
  • Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar adds depth and complements the pecans perfectly

Creating Perfect Layers

Base Preparation:
Begin by toasting pecans until fragrant and golden, releasing their essential oils. This foundation step sets the stage for exceptional flavor throughout the cake.
Batter Development:
Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy, incorporating air for a tender crumb. Gradually add eggs and vanilla, ensuring each addition is fully mixed before proceeding.
Final Assembly:
Layer your cake with generous amounts of frosting and toasted pecans between each tier. Create a smooth outer coating that invites everyone to take that first delicious bite.
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Through years of baking this cake, I've discovered that patience during the creaming process is crucial. My aunt always said, 'A properly creamed butter and sugar mixture should look like fresh fallen snow.' This visual guide has never failed me.

Serving Inspirations

Present this Southern beauty on a vintage cake stand for maximum impact. Serve slices with coffee or sweet tea for a true Georgia experience. For special occasions, add a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to each serving.

Creative Variations

Transform this classic by adding bourbon-soaked pecans for an adult twist, or incorporate chocolate chips for added decadence. Create a maple version by substituting some of the sugar with pure maple syrup, or add orange zest for a citrus brightness that complements the nuts beautifully.

Storage Success

Keep your cake fresh by storing it under a cake dome at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to two months. Always bring to room temperature before serving to experience the full depth of flavors.

After countless times making this cherished Southern recipe, I've learned that it's more than just a dessert - it's a celebration of Georgia's baking heritage. Whether served at a family gathering or gifted to a friend, this pecan cake carries the warmth and hospitality of the South in every slice. The way it brings people together, sparking conversations and creating memories, makes it truly special.

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Common Questions About Cooking

→ Why should I toast the pecans?
Toasting brings out the nuts' natural oils and enhances their flavor, making the cake more flavorful and aromatic.
→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the cake layers up to 2 days ahead. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature.
→ Why do ingredients need to be room temperature?
Room temperature ingredients blend better and create a smoother batter, resulting in a more even cake texture.
→ Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap well in plastic wrap and foil.
→ How do I store leftover cake?
Store frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Classic Southern Pecan Layer Cake

A classic Southern layer cake loaded with toasted pecans and topped with creamy vanilla frosting, perfect for any celebration.

Preparation Time
20 minutes
Cooking Duration
35 minutes
Total Time Required
55 minutes
Created By: Sarah John

Recipe Category: Sweet Treats

Skill Level Required: Moderate Skills Needed

Cuisine Style: American

Recipe Output: 12 Number of Servings (1 two-layer cake)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian-Friendly

What You'll Gather

→ For the Cake

Contains 01 items 2 cups all-purpose flour
Contains 02 items 1 tsp baking powder
Contains 03 items 1/2 tsp baking soda
Contains 04 items 1/4 tsp salt
Contains 05 items 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Contains 06 items 1 cup granulated sugar
Contains 07 items 3 large eggs
Contains 08 items 1 tsp vanilla extract
Contains 09 items 1/2 cup sour cream
Contains 10 items 1/2 cup whole milk
Contains 11 items 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)

→ For the Frosting

Contains 12 items 1 cup powdered sugar
Contains 13 items 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
Contains 14 items 2 tbsp milk
Contains 15 items 1 tsp vanilla extract
Contains 16 items 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 01

Toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, until golden brown. Set aside.

Step 02

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with sour cream and milk, mixing until combined. Gently fold in toasted pecans.

Step 03

Divide the batter between the two pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 04

Beat together powdered sugar, butter, milk, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.

Step 05

Frost the cooled cakes with the prepared frosting. Garnish with additional chopped pecans on top.

Important Tips

  1. Ensure the butter and eggs are at room temperature for the best texture
  2. Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor—don't skip this step
  3. The cake layers can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days

Essential Tools

  • Two 9-inch round cake pans
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Wire cooling rack
  • Skillet for toasting pecans

Allergen Guidance

Double-check ingredients for allergens and consult a health expert if needed.
  • Contains dairy
  • Contains eggs
  • Contains wheat/gluten
  • Contains tree nuts (pecans)

Nutrition Details (per serving)

This nutrition info is provided as a guide and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 380
  • Fat Amount: 22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 47 g
  • Protein Amount: 4 g