Pecan Cream Cheese Cake
Introduction
This cake is rich, tender, and filled with crunchy pecans, then finished with a smooth cream cheese frosting. It is perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or as a comforting homemade dessert with coffee or tea.
Ingredients
For the cake
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
1 cup finely chopped pecans
½ cup milk
For the cream cheese frosting
250 g cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 to 3 tablespoons milk or cream
½ cup chopped pecans for decoration
Preparation method
Step 1: Prepare the oven and pan
Preheat the oven to 170°C.
Grease and flour a round cake pan or bundt pan. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mix well and set aside.
Step 3: Cream butter and sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 4: Add eggs and vanilla
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 5: Add sour cream and dry mixture
Add the sour cream and mix gently.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk.
Mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: Add pecans
Fold in the chopped pecans gently using a spatula.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cream cheese frosting preparation
In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed.
Add vanilla extract and milk or cream until the frosting becomes soft and spreadable.
Assembly
Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top and sides.
Sprinkle chopped pecans on top and gently press some into the sides if desired.
Texture and flavor description
The cake is soft and moist inside, with small crunchy pieces of pecans throughout.
The frosting is rich, creamy, and slightly tangy, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the cake.
Storage
Store the cake in the refrigerator because of the cream cheese frosting.
It keeps well for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor and texture.
Serving suggestions
Serve with hot tea, coffee, or milk.
It can also be paired with caramel sauce for extra richness.
Conclusion
This pecan cream cheese cake is a classic, comforting dessert with a perfect balance of nutty flavor and creamy frosting. It is easy to prepare and impressive in appearance, making it ideal for special occasions or everyday treats.
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