Classic Southern Pecan Cake

Ingredients

For the Batter:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk
• 1 1/2 cups apples, peeled and diced

For the Streusel Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
2. Set aside—this mixture forms the base for the loaf’s structure and leavening.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. This step incorporates air into the batter, ensuring a tender and soft texture.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

1. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to ensure they are fully incorporated.
2. Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor and aroma.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
2. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf light.

6. Fold in Apples

• Gently fold in the diced apples, ensuring even distribution for bursts of flavor and moisture throughout the loaf.

7. Prepare the Streusel Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon.
2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

8. Assemble the Loaf

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter.

9. Bake the Loaf

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Avoid overbaking to prevent dryness.

10. Cool the Loaf

1. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes to set.
2. Carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely, allowing any residual steam to escape and avoiding sogginess.

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Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Apples: Choose firm and tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
2. Avoid Overmixing: Overmixing the batter can make the loaf dense. Mix until just combined.
3. Cool Completely: Let the loaf cool fully before slicing for clean, neat cuts.
4. Storage: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

This apple cinnamon loaf is perfect as a snack or dessert, with its moist texture, sweet apple bursts, and crunchy streusel topping!