Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Southern Georgia Pecan Cake is a rich, moist, and nutty dessert that highlights the flavor of fresh pecans—an iconic Southern ingredient. This cake is traditionally served during holidays and family gatherings, offering a dense yet tender crumb packed with buttery warmth and toasted pecans. It’s perfect for those who appreciate simple ingredients and big flavor.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

all-purpose flourgranulated sugareggsunsalted butterbrown sugarsour creambaking sodasaltvanilla extractchopped Georgia pecans

directions

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a Bundt pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Stir in the sour cream and vanilla extract until combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Fold in the chopped pecans evenly throughout the batter.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple glaze before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12–16 slices.Preparation time: 20 minutesBaking time: 60–70 minutesCooling time: 30 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 50 minutes

Variations

Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the batter for added Southern depth.

Fold in golden raisins or chopped dates along with the pecans.

Top with a caramel glaze or cream cheese frosting for a richer finish.

Toast the pecans before adding for a deeper, nuttier flavor.

storage/reheating

Store the pecan cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 7 days or freeze slices for up to 2 months.To reheat, microwave individual slices for 10–15 seconds or warm in a low oven.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes, walnuts or almonds can be substituted, but pecans offer the best Southern flavor.

Is this cake very sweet?

It has a balanced sweetness from brown sugar and sour cream, with the pecans adding a natural richness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely—this cake holds up well and tastes even better the next day.

Should I toast the pecans first?

Toasting is optional, but it enhances the flavor and adds a slight crunch.

Can I bake this in loaf pans?

Yes, just adjust the baking time accordingly—start checking around 40–45 minutes.

Does this cake need frosting?

Not necessarily. It’s delicious plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, by using a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend, though texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when it’s done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Is this cake moist?

Yes, thanks to the sour cream, it’s dense but moist and flavorful.

Can I use salted butter?

You can, but reduce the added salt in the recipe slightly to compensate.

Conclusion

Southern Georgia Pecan Cake is a timeless dessert full of warmth, flavor, and Southern charm. Whether served at a holiday table or a casual gathering, it’s sure to impress with its nutty richness and soft, buttery crumb. Give it a try and enjoy a true taste of the South in every bite.