Hey there, dessert lovers!
Are you in the mood for something sweet? I’ve got the perfect treat for you!
Today, I’m excited to share my delicious pecan pie snack cake recipe.
It’s got all the flavors of classic pecan pie but in a fun, easy-to-eat cake form.
Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll be hooked!
Let’s whip up this tasty goodness together!
Suggestions for Ingredient Substitution
All-purpose flour can be replaced with whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend for added nutrition or to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Use a 1:1 ratio, but note that whole wheat flour may result in a denser texture. For the gluten-free option, add 1/4 teaspoon of xanthan gum per cup of flour to improve texture.
Buttermilk can be substituted with a plant-based alternative like almond milk or soy milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup of milk. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before using to create a similar acidity and texture to buttermilk.
For a vegan option, eggs can be replaced with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg). Allow the mixture to sit for 5 minutes before using. This substitution will provide binding properties similar to eggs while adding beneficial omega-3 fatty acids.
| Preparation Time | 20-30 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 36-40 minutes |
| Total Time | 56-70 minutes |
| Level of Difficulty | Medium |
Estimated Nutrition
Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):
- Calories: 3800-4200
- Protein: 30-40 g
- Fat: 200-220 g
- Carbohydrates: 480-500 g
Ingredients
For the cake dry ingredients:
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp cinnamon
For the cake wet ingredients:
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil (or any neutral oil like canola)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/3 cup applesauce
- 2 large eggs (room temperature, about 70°F for better emulsion)
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup white sugar
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup honey (I use Sue Bee honey)
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
For the frosting:
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar (sifted for a smooth frosting)
- 1 cup unsalted butter (I like Kerrygold unsalted butter for this)
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (pure maple syrup for best flavor)
Step 1: Prepare the Dry and Wet Ingredients
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Begin by combining all dry ingredients in a medium bowl, making sure to add them in the order listed in your recipe.
Set this bowl aside.
In a separate bowl, combine all wet ingredients together.
Once both mixtures are ready, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients while whisking them together until you have a smooth cake batter.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Grease an 8×8-inch baking dish lined with parchment paper.
Pour the prepared cake batter into the dish, spreading it evenly.
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 36-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Pecan Pie Topping
While the cake is cooling, melt some butter in a medium saucepan or skillet over medium heat.
Add in brown sugar, honey, heavy cream, and vanilla extract.
Stir the mixture for a few minutes until well combined and smooth.
Add in the chopped pecans and stir well.
Allow the pecan topping to cool slightly so it thickens slightly and the flavors blend.
Step 4: Make the Frosting
As the pecan topping cools, start making the frosting.
In a mixing bowl, beat together butter, powdered sugar, and maple syrup until smooth and creamy.
The consistency should be spreadable and smooth for easy application on the cake.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, apply a generous layer of frosting over the top of the cake.
Then, evenly distribute the cooled pecan pie topping over the frosting.
Allow the assembled cake to sit for a short period to let the toppings settle before slicing.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the prepared cake into desired sizes and serve it up.
Enjoy the delightful combination of soft cake, rich frosting, and crunchy pecan topping.
Perfect for any occasion!
