This scrumptious salted pecan cake recipe is a delightful balance of sweetness and saltiness. With a gooey pecan topping and a soft, moist cake underneath, it's not just a dessert, it's an experience. A hint of bourbon enhances the nutty flavor of the pecans, making this recipe a standout among classic cakes.
Some ingredients in this recipe may not be commonly found in a standard pantry. Golden syrup, a thick, amber-colored syrup, is sweeter than sugar and gives the cake a moist texture and a rich, caramel flavor. It's often found in the baking aisle or can be ordered online. Maldon flaky sea salt, known for its pyramid-like crystal shape, is used to finish off the cake. It adds a subtle crunch and contrasts beautifully with the sweet pecan topping.
Salted Pecan Cake Ingredients
Salted butter: Used in the topping for a salty kick that complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and golden syrup.
Golden brown sugar: Adds a rich, sweet, molasses-like flavor to both the topping and the cake.
Golden syrup: This sweetener makes the cake moist and the topping gooey.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Bourbon: A touch of this gives the cake an interesting depth of flavor.
Pecans: The star ingredient, giving the topping a delightful crunch.
Cake flour: Makes the cake light and tender.
Baking powder: Helps the cake rise.
Fine sea salt: Balances the sweetness in the cake.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the cake without making it too salty.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake.
Eggs: Adds structure and helps the cake rise.
Sour cream: Provides moisture and a slight tang to balance the sweet flavors.
Maldon flaky sea salt: A finishing salt that adds a subtle crunch and enhances the cake's flavor profile.
One reader, Daryl Whatley says:
This salted pecan cake recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the rich, buttery pecan topping and the moist, flavorful cake is simply divine. The touch of sea salt adds the perfect balance of flavors. It's a showstopper dessert that always impresses. Highly recommend giving it a try!
Key Techniques for Making Salted Pecan Cake
How to prepare the topping: This involves melting the butter, adding brown sugar and golden syrup, and cooking until the sugar melts and starts to bubble. It's important to time the boiling precisely to avoid the caramel hardening on the cake.
How to make the cake batter: This involves sifting together the dry ingredients, beating the butter and sugars until light and fluffy, and then folding in the dry ingredients until just combined. It's important not to overmix the batter.
How to bake the cake: The cake should be baked at 350°F (180°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
How to invert the cake and serve: After cooling for 5 minutes, the cake should be inverted onto a serving plate. Any remaining caramel or nuts in the pan can be scraped and spread over the cake. Finally, sprinkle the Maldon sea salt over the top before serving.
How To Make Salted Pecan Cake
A simple yellow cake serves as the base of a gooey and rich topping for this salted pecan cake. Caramel, salt, and pecans make the best combination!
Serves:
Ingredients
For Topping:
- ½cupsalted butter
- 1cupgolden brown sugar,firmly packed
- 3tbspgolden syrup,or light corn syrup
- ¼tspvanilla extract
- 1tbspbourbon,optional
- 1cuppecans,chopped, toasted
For Cake:
- 1½cupscake flour,sifted
- 1½tspbaking powder
- ½tspfine sea salt
- ½cupunsalted butter,at room temperature
- ¾cupgranulated sugar
- ¼cupgolden brown sugar,firmly packed
- 2largeeggs
- 2tbspgolden syrup
- ⅔cupsour cream
- 1½tspvanilla extract
- ¼tspmaldon flaky sea salt
Instructions
-
Position a rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9-inch round cake pan with nonstick cooking spray. Set aside.
-
In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, melt the salted butter. When the butter starts to bubble and turn golden, add the brown sugar and golden syrup.
-
Decrease the heat to medium and stir until the sugar melts and starts to bubble. As soon as the mixture starts to boil, cook for 1 minute exactly, stirring continuously. Be very careful with this timing. (Boiling for more than a minute will result in caramel that will harden on the cake and be difficult to slice.)
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Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla, bourbon, and pecans. Pour immediately into the prepared pan, using a small spatula to spread in an even layer. Set aside.
-
In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and fine sea salt. In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer set at medium speed, beat together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for about 4 minutes, until light and fluffy.
-
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl after each addition. Beat in the golden syrup, sour cream, and vanilla.
-
With a rubber or silicone spatula, fold in the flour mixture by hand just until the batter is combined and no streaks of white remain. Spoon the batter into the pan with the topping, smoothing it evenly with a spatula.
-
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
-
Transfer the pan to a wire rack and let cool for 5 minutes. Invert the cake onto a serving plate. If any bits of caramel or nuts remain in the pan, simply scrape them from the pan and spread them over the cake with a spatula.
-
Sprinkle the Maldon sea salt over the top of the cake. Serve the cake warm, cut into thick wedges.
Nutrition
- Calories: 642.78kcal
- Fat: 37.11g
- Saturated Fat: 17.97g
- Trans Fat: 0.93g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.46g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.04g
- Carbohydrates: 74.20g
- Fiber: 1.63g
- Sugar: 42.00g
- Protein: 5.48g
- Cholesterol: 117.47mg
- Sodium: 361.68mg
- Calcium: 132.73mg
- Potassium: 168.63mg
- Iron: 2.81mg
- Vitamin A: 248.19µg
- Vitamin C: 0.31mg
Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Salted Pecan Cake
When making the caramel topping for the salted pecan cake, it's crucial to keep a close eye on the sugar as it melts. Sugar can quickly go from melted to burnt, which would give your cake a bitter taste. To avoid this, stir the mixture continuously and remove it from the heat as soon as it starts to turn a golden color. Additionally, using a timer can help ensure you don't overcook the caramel. Remember, it should only boil for exactly one minute. This will result in a perfectly smooth and sweet caramel that complements the salty pecans and moist cake beautifully.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Salted Pecan Cake
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and measure all the ingredients before starting to make the cake to streamline the process.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to chop the pecans quickly and evenly for the topping.
Room temperature ingredients: Ensure that the butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature to promote even mixing and faster baking.
Bake in advance: The cake can be baked in advance and stored in an airtight container, then reheated before serving to save time on the day of serving.
Make the topping ahead: Prepare the topping a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then reheat it before pouring it into the cake pan to save time on the day of baking.
Substitute Ingredients For Salted Pecan Cake Recipe
salted butter - Substitute with unsalted butter: If you use unsalted butter, you can control the amount of salt in the recipe more easily, especially since there is already salt in the cake batter.
fine sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has larger crystals, so you'll need to use a bit more compared to fine sea salt. It also has a milder flavor, which can be beneficial in this recipe.
golden brown sugar - Substitute with dark brown sugar: Dark brown sugar has a slightly higher molasses content, which can add a deeper flavor to the topping.
golden syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can provide a similar sweetness and stickiness to the topping, although it has a slightly different flavor profile.
pecans - Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar texture and can provide a delicious nutty flavor in place of pecans.
cake flour - Substitute with all-purpose flour: All-purpose flour can be used as a substitute for cake flour in this recipe, although the texture of the cake may be slightly different.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, and it can add a hint of coconut flavor to the cake.
granulated sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to granulated sugar, and it adds a caramel-like flavor to the cake.
sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can provide a similar tanginess and moisture to the cake as sour cream.
maldon flaky sea salt - Substitute with Himalayan pink salt: Himalayan pink salt can be used as a substitute for flaky sea salt, adding a subtle saltiness and a pop of color to the cake.
Presentation Ideas for a Delightful Salted Pecan Cake
Elevate the cake with a modern twist: Instead of serving the cake in traditional slices, consider deconstructing it and presenting it as a stack of layers with the topping cascading down the sides for a visually stunning effect.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of elegance by garnishing the plate with delicate, edible flowers such as pansies or violets. This adds a pop of color and a subtle floral aroma to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by strategically placing the cake on a pristine white plate, allowing the rich colors and textures of the cake and topping to take center stage.
Introduce a contrasting element: Pair the cake with a quenelle of tangy crème fraîche or a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream to provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the cake and enhance the overall flavor profile.
Incorporate geometric shapes: Experiment with angular plating by cutting the cake into precise, uniform shapes and arranging them in an artful, geometric pattern on the plate for a visually striking presentation.
Add a touch of gold leaf: Elevate the cake's visual appeal by delicately adorning it with edible gold leaf, adding a luxurious and opulent touch to the presentation.
Create a caramel drizzle design: Instead of simply pouring the topping over the cake, consider drizzling the caramel in an artistic pattern on the plate, showcasing the cake as the focal point and adding a touch of finesse to the presentation.
Use a custom cake mold: Consider using a custom mold to shape the cake into an elegant cylindrical form, allowing for a more refined and structured presentation that highlights the layers and textures of the dessert.
Essential Tools for Making Salted Pecan Cake
- Saucepan: A saucepan is a deep cooking vessel with a handle and often a lid, used for cooking on the stovetop. It is commonly used for making sauces, boiling liquids, or simmering ingredients.
- Cake pan: A cake pan is a round or square baking pan with shallow sides, used for baking cakes. It is typically made of metal and comes in various sizes.
- Wooden skewer: A wooden skewer is a thin, pointed stick used for testing the doneness of baked goods. It is inserted into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean, the cake is fully baked.
- Wire rack: A wire rack is a metal rack with a grid-like surface used for cooling baked goods. It allows air to circulate around the food, preventing sogginess.
- Electric mixer: An electric mixer is a kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients. It typically consists of a handheld or stand mixer with various speed settings.
- Rubber spatula: A rubber spatula is a flexible kitchen tool with a broad, flat, and often curved blade, used for scraping bowls, folding ingredients, or spreading batter.
- Silicone spatula: A silicone spatula is a kitchen utensil with a flexible, heat-resistant head, used for mixing, scraping, and spreading ingredients in bowls and pans.
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, pureeing, and blending ingredients. It consists of a motorized base with interchangeable blades and attachments.
Storing and Freezing Salted Pecan Cake for Later
Let the salted pecan cake cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the cake soggy.
To store the cake at room temperature, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. The cake will keep for up to 3 days at room temperature.
For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container. The cake will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe container. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to serve a frozen cake, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, let it come to room temperature before unwrapping and serving.
If you want to freeze individual slices of the cake, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between each slice to prevent them from sticking together. Thaw individual slices in the refrigerator or at room temperature before serving.
To maintain the best texture and flavor of the pecans and caramel topping, it's recommended to consume the cake within a month of freezing.
How to Reheat Salted Pecan Cake Leftovers
To reheat leftover salted pecan cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cake is heated through and the topping is gooey and bubbly. This method helps to preserve the texture and flavor of the cake while ensuring that the topping doesn't burn.
If you prefer a quicker method, you can reheat individual slices of the cake in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 15-20 seconds. Check the temperature and continue heating in 5-second intervals until the cake is warm and the topping is melted. Be careful not to overheat the cake, as it may become rubbery or dry.
For a crispy topping, you can reheat the cake under the broiler. Place a slice of cake on a baking sheet and broil it for 1-2 minutes, or until the topping is bubbling and caramelized. Keep a close eye on the cake to prevent burning, as the broiler can quickly overheat the topping.
If you want to enjoy the cake at room temperature, simply remove it from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the cake to soften and the flavors to develop, making it taste almost as good as freshly baked.
To maintain the best texture and flavor, store leftover salted pecan cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, choose one of the reheating methods above to restore the cake to its former glory.
Interesting Trivia About Salted Pecan Cake
The pecan cake recipe is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of pecans, brown sugar, and bourbon. This cake is a perfect choice for a special occasion or a cozy evening at home. The combination of salted butter and golden syrup in the topping creates a deliciously sweet and salty flavor profile that complements the nuttiness of the pecans. It's a wonderful dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Is Making Salted Pecan Cake at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this salted pecan cake recipe is moderate. While the ingredients like pecans and bourbon can be pricey, the recipe yields a delicious, indulgent dessert that can serve a household of 4. The approximate cost for this recipe is around $20, making it a reasonable treat for special occasions. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 9/10, considering the rich flavors and the relatively affordable cost for a homemade dessert.
Is Salted Pecan Cake Healthy or Unhealthy?
This salted pecan cake recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The cake is high in sugar, fat, and calories, with ingredients like butter, brown sugar, golden syrup, and sour cream contributing to its indulgent nature. The topping alone contains a significant amount of butter and sugar, which can lead to health concerns if consumed in excess.
However, there are a few redeeming qualities:
- Pecans provide healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients
- The recipe uses a moderate amount of salt, which can help balance the sweetness and enhance flavor without going overboard on sodium
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Reduce the amount of sugar in both the topping and the cake batter by 25-50%, or replace some of the sugar with natural sweeteners like applesauce or mashed bananas
- Use whole wheat pastry flour or a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the cake
- Replace some of the butter with healthier alternatives like Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or coconut oil
- Incorporate additional nutrient-rich ingredients, such as grated zucchini or carrots, to boost the cake's vitamin and mineral content without compromising taste or texture
- Serve smaller portions and pair the cake with fresh fruit or a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance the richness and add a healthier touch
Editor's Opinion on the Deliciousness of Salted Pecan Cake
The salted pecan cake recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and salty flavors, creating a perfect balance. The golden brown sugar and bourbon in the topping add a rich, caramelized taste, complemented by the crunch of the pecans. The cake itself is moist and tender, with a hint of sour cream adding a subtle tang. The finishing touch of Maldon sea salt enhances the overall flavor profile. This cake is a wonderful treat for any occasion, and its unique combination of ingredients is sure to impress your guests.
Enhance Your Salted Pecan Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delectable Alternatives to Salted Pecan Cake
Appetizers and Main Courses That Go Well with Salted Pecan Cake
Why trust this Salted Pecan Cake Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delectable experience, with golden brown sugar and bourbon adding rich flavors. The careful timing of the caramel ensures a perfect texture, while the use of sour cream promises a moist and tender crumb. The incorporation of maldon flaky sea salt adds a delightful contrast, elevating the overall taste. Trust in the expertise behind this recipe, as it promises a delightful and indulgent treat that will surely impress.
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