Kentucky Pecan Bourbon Cake
A rich, nutty cake infused with Kentucky bourbon, featuring pecans, raisins, and warm spices, perfect for special occasions or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break pecan pieces with fingers or chop very coarsely; cut raisins in half and set aside.
- Measure the flour after sifting once; then sift twice more.
- Take 1/2 cup of this flour and mix with nuts and raisins.
- To the rest of the flour, add the baking powder and sift again.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add egg yolks one at a time, beating until mixture is smooth and lemon colored.
- Soak the nutmeg in the bourbon whiskey for at least 10 minutes, then add to the butter mixture, alternating with the flour, beating as the batter is blended.
- Fold in the raisins and nuts into the batter.
- Beat egg whites with a few grains of salt until stiff and then fold into the batter.
- Pour the batter into a prepared cake pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Decorate the top of the cake with jumbo pecan halves and candied cherries.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter. If you need a substitute for bourbon, maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness, though it will alter the flavor slightly. Ensure to sift the flour properly for a light cake texture, and don't skip the step of soaking nutmeg in bourbon for enhanced aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Special Creamed Corn for a savory-sweet meal. Additionally, a strong cup of coffee or a rich bourbon cocktail complements the flavors perfectly, making it a great option for gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Kentucky Pecan Bourbon Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Kentucky Pecan Bourbon Cake contains roughly 524 calories, with 9g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 4g 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 use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute walnuts or almonds if you prefer. However, keep in mind that this will change the flavor profile of the cake. Pecans are traditionally used for their buttery taste, which pairs well with bourbon.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the toothpick has wet batter on it, give the cake a few more minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it properly. Just make sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
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).