Pecan Pie Pudding Cake
The warm, nutty aroma of toasted pecans mingling with buttery sweetness will draw everyone to the table as you prepare this Pecan Pie Pudding Cake. Each bite offers a delightful combination of textures—rich, gooey pudding-like layers paired with a golden crust and crunchy pecans. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or a casual family gathering, this dessert is always the star of the show!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortlessly Impressive: Simple to make, yet stunning to serve.
- Perfect Texture: A luscious blend of creamy pudding and crunchy pecans.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for holidays, potlucks, or any time you need a show-stopping dessert.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with add-ins like chocolate chips or bourbon for a unique twist.
I’ll never forget the first time I served this at Thanksgiving—it was gone before I even got a second slice!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup chopped pecans (lightly toasted for extra flavor)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Let’s Make It Together
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish generously with butter or nonstick spray.
2. Mix the Sugars and Butter
In a large bowl, combine melted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and resembles wet sand.
3. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Whisk in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, and prepare to enjoy the heavenly aroma!
4. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients. Be gentle—overmixing can make the cake dense.
5. Add Pecans and Cream
Fold in the chopped pecans, then stir in the heavy cream. The batter should be thick yet pourable, perfect for creating that pudding-like texture.
6. Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pie dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for at least 10 minutes before serving. For an extra indulgent touch, top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Chef’s Tips for Success
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting enhances their natural nutty flavor—just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do.
- Room Temperature Eggs: These blend more easily into the batter, ensuring a smooth texture.
- Don’t Skip Cooling: Letting the cake cool slightly helps it set and makes slicing easier.
Make Ahead & Storage
- Make Ahead: You can bake this cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature.
- Storage: Leftovers (if there are any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds.
Creative Variations
- Go Boozy: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the batter for a festive twist.
- Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips for extra decadence.
- Nut Swap: Swap pecans for walnuts or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Pecan Pie Pudding Cake pairs beautifully with:
- A dollop of fresh whipped cream.
- A drizzle of caramel sauce.
- A side of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream.
FAQs
What makes this different from traditional pecan pie?
This dessert combines the flavors of pecan pie with the soft, rich texture of a pudding cake. It’s less dense than traditional pecan pie but just as indulgent!
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It’s even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
What’s the best way to serve this?
Serve it slightly warm with whipped cream or ice cream for the ultimate experience.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
This Pecan Pie Pudding Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Whether it’s a holiday centerpiece or a weeknight treat, this cake is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
