Southern Cake

Prep: 10 min Cook: 35 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A moist, nutty yellow cake infused with vanilla pudding and topped with chopped pecans, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 1 Duncan Hines yellow cake mix
  • 1 package vanilla pudding (instant)
  • 4 eggs
  • 1/2 cup cooking oil
  • 1 cup cold water
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  1. Mix together the cake mix, vanilla pudding, eggs, cooking oil, and cold water.
  2. Beat according to the directions on the cake mix box.
  3. Pour the batter into a prepared cake pan.
  4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 to 35 minutes.
  5. Allow to cool before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter texture, consider using egg whites instead of whole eggs. You can substitute the cooking oil with melted butter for added flavor. If you're out of pecans, walnuts or almonds can work just as well. For an extra twist, try adding some lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Southern Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert. It pairs beautifully with bits of fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside a slice of Orange Butter Cake And Filling for a dessert spread that will impress your guests.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, slice the cake and warm gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or enjoy it cold for a refreshing treat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Southern Cake contains roughly 474 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

474 kcal 24% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.5g 7% DV
Total Fat 43.9g 56% DV
Carbs 21.1g 8% DV
Fiber 2.9g 10% DV
Sugar 6.1g 12% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 35.4mg 2% DV
Potassium 191.5mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 35.3mg 12% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 14mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Calcium 59.5mg 5% DV
Iron 1mg 6% DV
Contains Egg 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 make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap. This will keep it moist and fresh until you're ready to serve it. Consider making the frosting or toppings just before serving for the best flavor.

How can I make this cake more moist?

To enhance the moisture of the cake, you can add a small amount of sour cream or yogurt to the batter. Additionally, ensure you don't overbake it, as this can dry it out. Testing for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time can help achieve the perfect texture.

Is it possible to freeze this cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the cake either whole or in slices. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying it.

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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