Growing up, I always looked forward to the decadent aroma of a freshly baked Sock It To Me Cake wafting through the kitchen. This beloved Southern classic is a delightful treat that combines the richness of a buttery pound cake with a surprise swirl of cinnamon and pecans. With a history as rich as its flavor, this cake has been a staple at family gatherings and potlucks for generations.
I‘ll guide you through the steps to recreate this nostalgic dessert in your own kitchen. From mixing the perfect batter to achieving that signature cinnamon swirl, this recipe will have you savoring every bite of this moist and flavorful cake. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a slice of this timeless favorite that’s sure to become a new tradition in your home.
Ingredients
To prepare the delicious Sock It To Me Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup of butter, softened
- 2 cups of sugar
- 4 eggs
- 3 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
For the Swirl:
- 1/2 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of chopped pecans
- 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
- 1 cup of powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons of milk
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
To make this delectable Sock It To Me Cake, it’s essential to have the right equipment on hand. Here’s what you will need:
Mixing Bowls
I recommend using medium to large mixing bowls to comfortably mix the batter and the cinnamon-pecan swirl without spillage.
Electric Mixer
An electric mixer will make creaming the butter, sugar, and eggs a breeze, ensuring a smooth and fluffy texture for your cake.
Bundt Pan
A Bundt pan is ideal for baking this cake as it helps create the perfect shape and allows for even baking throughout.
Cooling Rack
A cooling rack is essential for cooling the cake properly. Placing the hot cake on a rack allows air to circulate around it, preventing the bottom from becoming soggy.
Oven
Of course, you’ll need an oven to bake the cake to perfection. Preheat it to the specified temperature before placing the cake inside.
Having these essential pieces of equipment ready will set you up for success in making a mouthwatering Sock It To Me Cake that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
How to Make Sock it to me Cake
Step 1: Preparing the Batter
- Preheat your oven to the recommended temperature and ensure your Bundt pan is greased and floured to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure the batter is smooth.
- Mix in the flour, baking powder, and salt until just combined.
- Gently fold in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the batter is uniform and creamy.
Step 2: Creating the Signature Swirl
- In a separate bowl, mix together the chopped pecans, cinnamon, and powdered sugar to create the swirl filling.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared Bundt pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the pecan-cinnamon mixture over the batter layer in the pan.
- Pour the remaining batter on top, covering the pecan-cinnamon layer completely.
- Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for the specified time or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes.
- Carefully invert the cake onto a cooling rack to cool completely.
- To enhance the flavor, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract over the cooled cake.
- Slice and serve this delicious Sock It To Me Cake to wow your friends and family with a taste of Southern tradition. Enjoy every bite of this moist and flavorful treat!
Serving and Storing
After baking and cooling your delicious Sock It To Me Cake, it’s time to serve and store it for later enjoyment! Here are some simple steps to ensure your cake stays fresh and tasty:
Serving:
- Slicing: Use a sharp knife to slice the cake into neat portions. This will help showcase the beautiful cinnamon-pecan swirl inside.
- Plating: Place individual slices on serving plates for a lovely presentation. The cake pairs perfectly with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Garnishing: For a decorative touch, sprinkle some powdered sugar or finely chopped pecans on top of each slice before serving.
- Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before storing to prevent condensation.
- Covering: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its moisture.
- Refrigeration: Store the wrapped cake in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
- Freezing: If you want to store the cake for longer, freeze individual slices or the whole cake. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Tips for the sock it to me Cake
As a seasoned baker, I have gathered some valuable tips over the years to ensure that your Sock It To Me Cake turns out perfectly every time. Here are some key pointers to keep in mind when making this delightful Southern classic:
1. Room Temperature Ingredients
Before you start baking, make sure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are all at room temperature. This helps them blend together smoothly, resulting in a lighter and more tender cake.
2. Properly Grease and Flour the Pan
To prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, generously grease and flour it before pouring in the batter. You can also use parchment paper for easier removal once the cake is baked.
3. Swirling Technique
When creating the cinnamon-pecan swirl, gently drag a knife through the batter in a zig-zag motion for a beautiful marbled effect. Avoid overmixing to maintain distinct swirls in every slice.
4. Baking Time and Temperature
Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake towards the end of the baking time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, indicating that the cake is ready.
5. Cooling and Storage
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. For storage, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or foil to maintain its freshness. You can refrigerate it for 3-4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months for future enjoyment.
These tips will not only help you master the art of baking the Sock It To Me Cake but also elevate your baking skills to create a truly memorable dessert experience.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of baking a Sock It To Me Cake is a delightful journey filled with nostalgia and flavor. From the buttery pound cake base to the irresistible cinnamon and pecan swirl, this Southern classic never fails to impress. Remember, attention to detail and the right techniques are key to achieving a perfect Sock It To Me Cake every time. By following the tips and steps outlined in this guide, you can confidently recreate this beloved dessert in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of this delectable cake fill your home. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just to satisfy your sweet tooth, the Sock It To Me Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Happy baking!