Pecan Whiskey Cake

Prep: 20 min Cook: 60 min Cuisine: American

A rich pecan whiskey cake featuring warm spices, chopped pecans, and raisins, perfect for gatherings and those who enjoy a moist, flavorful dessert with a boozy kick.

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Ingredients

  • 1 tsp. cinnamon
  • 2 c. flour
  • 2 tsp. baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp. nutmeg
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 c. butter, softened
  • 1 c. sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 c. whiskey
  • 1 c. raisins, chopped
  • 2 c. pecans, chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Blend the flour and baking powder in a bowl.
  3. Mix in the nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt.
  4. Set aside 1/4 cup of the flour mixture.
  5. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  6. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  7. Stir in the whiskey.
  8. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  9. Fold in the chopped raisins and pecans.
  10. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan.
  11. Sprinkle the reserved flour mixture on top of the batter.
  12. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  13. Allow to cool before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more intense flavor, consider using a high-quality bourbon for the whiskey. If you're looking for a nut-free version, you can substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds or omit them entirely. To enhance moisture, try adding a tablespoon of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the batter. Ensure you measure your flour correctly to avoid a dense cake.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Pecan Whiskey Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. Consider serving it alongside American recipes like Artichoke-Green Bean Casserole for a comforting meal or as a sweet treat during holiday gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Pecan Whiskey Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze it for up to three months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Pecan Whiskey Cake contains roughly 1608 calories, with 16g protein, 131g carbohydrates, and 120g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and protein (31% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2088mg per serving (91% of the Daily Value).

1608 kcal 80% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 15.5g 31% DV
Total Fat 120.2g 100% DV
Carbs 130.6g 47% DV
Fiber 15g 53% DV
Sugar 50.5g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2088.5mg 91% DV
Potassium 1017.4mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 186.2mg 62% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 2.6mcg
Vitamin C 45.6mg 51% DV
Calcium 294.7mg 23% DV
Iron 5.6mg 31% DV
Diet fit High-fiber
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Tree nuts

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 a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor. Just be sure to chop them into similar-sized pieces to maintain the texture of the cake. Each nut will provide its unique taste, so choose based on your preference.

Is it possible to make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the Pecan Whiskey Cake a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It will taste even better as the flavors meld together. Just remember to warm it slightly before serving.

What can I do if my cake is too dry?

If your cake turns out dry, you can serve it with a drizzle of whiskey glaze made from powdered sugar and whiskey. This will add moisture and enhance the flavor. Additionally, serving it with whipped cream or ice cream can help balance the dryness.

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).

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