Southern Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of warmth and sweetness found in Southern baking. With its rich buttermilk base and the crunchy texture of pecans paired with sweet coconut, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a family gathering or just craving something sweet, this cake is sure to please everyone at the table.
What Goes into This Delightful Cake
To create this slice of heaven, here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 package white cake mix (15.25 oz / 432 g)
- 1 cup buttermilk (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (120 ml)
- 4 large egg whites
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (115 g)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
- 1 cup evaporated milk (240 ml)
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (5 ml)
- 1 1/2 cups sweetened shredded coconut (120 g)
- 1 cup chopped pecans (120 g)
Step-by-Step Recipe for Southern Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake
Let’s dive into making this delicious Southern Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake in a few simple steps.
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure that the cakes come out easily.
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Mix the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, buttermilk, vegetable oil, egg whites, and vanilla extract. Stir until the batter is smooth and well blended.
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Divide and Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 22 to 26 minutes. You’ll know the cakes are ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for roughly 10 minutes before gently transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
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Prepare the Filling: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, sugar, evaporated milk, and egg yolks. Stir constantly for 10 to 12 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, shredded coconut, and chopped pecans. Let this filling cool to room temperature.
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Assemble the Cake: Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate. Spread half of the coconut pecan filling on top of the first layer. Add the second layer and spread the remaining filling on top. For a rustic look, leave the sides bare, or if you prefer, frost lightly with any leftover filling.
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Serve and Enjoy: For an even richer flavor, let your cake sit overnight in the fridge. Serve it chilled for the best taste!
How to Serve Southern Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake
When it comes to serving this cake, the options are deliciously endless! To enhance the experience, try pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh berries can also add a great touch of acidity that complements the sweetness. For a truly Southern experience, enjoy it alongside a warm cup of coffee or sweet tea!
Helpful Tricks for This Coconut Pecan Cake
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Toast the Pecans: For a deeper flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the filling. This enhances their nutty profile, giving your cake an extra layer of deliciousness.
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Flavor Variations: Want to switch things up? Add 1/2 teaspoon of coconut or almond extract to the batter for a twist on the classic flavor.
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Alternative Cake Options: If you’d like to change the presentation, consider turning this recipe into cupcakes or a bundt cake. Just adjust the baking times accordingly!
Southern Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake FAQs
How do I store the cake?
You can store the Southern Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze slices for up to 2 months.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! This cake tastes even better after sitting overnight in the fridge. It allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What if I can’t find buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can create a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using it in your recipe.
Your Southern Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake is sure to be a hit! With its light, fluffy texture and decadent filling, everyone will be asking for seconds. So grab your ingredients and get ready to bake this scrumptious treat!