Kentucky Dream Cake
Kentucky Dream Cake is a moist, coconut and pecan layered cake with a rich, tender crumb, perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings with its sweet, nutty flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cream shortening and margarine with sugar and egg yolks, one at a time.
- Beat well after each addition.
- Add flour and baking soda alternately with buttermilk, starting and ending with flour.
- Add vanilla, coconut, and chopped pecans to the batter.
- Gently fold in beaten egg whites.
- Divide batter into 2 or 3 greased and floured 8x8-inch cake pans.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 35 to 40 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist Kentucky Dream Cake, ensure your butter and margarine are at room temperature before creaming. If you don't have buttermilk, you can substitute with milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Additionally, you can replace pecans with walnuts for a different flavor. For a lighter texture, fold the egg whites gently until just combined.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Kentucky Dream Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. It pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Grandma's Christmas Roll Out Cookies during holiday gatherings to create a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Kentucky Dream Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice and warm individual pieces in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold as a delightful treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kentucky Dream Cake contains roughly 584 calories, with 11g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. This will help the flavors meld and make the cake even more delicious when served.
What can I use if I don’t have self-rising flour?
If you don't have self-rising flour, you can make your own by combining 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour with 3 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This substitute will work perfectly in the Kentucky Dream Cake recipe.
Can I freeze Kentucky Dream Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving for the best texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).