If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dessert to share with family and friends, look no further than the Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake Recipe!
This classic recipe is easy to make and is sure to be a hit at any gathering. The sweet pecan topping adds a delightful crunch to this classic dessert.
Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake recipe is sure to be a crowd pleaser!
What is Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake?
Sara Lee has been a brand known and trusted for many years. The journey began in 1948 when Charles Lubin, inspired by his own family, purchased a small chain of neighborhood bakeries. Renaming the business “The Kitchens of Sara Lee” after his 8-year-old daughter, he took great pride in the quality and taste of their products. According to Sara Lee, her father insisted on perfection because he was naming it after her. Charles Lubin’s successful venture caught the attention of Consolidated Foods, which acquired the Sara Lee business in 1956.
One of their most popular items is the Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake which is a classic dessert recipe that combines the sweetness of cake with the nuttiness of pecans. It starts with a simple cake batter base that is then topped with a sweet and crunchy pecan topping.
This classic recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering and is easy to make.
Why You’ll Love this Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake?
This Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake recipe is a classic dessert that is sure to please any crowd. The sweet pecan topping adds a delightful crunch to the cake, while the cake itself is moist and fluffy.
Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can whip up a batch in no time!
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The Ingredients
Cake:
- Ethically sourced yellow cake mix: This choice emphasizes a commitment to ethical practices in sourcing ingredients, ensuring that the production of the cake mix aligns with fair and responsible standards.
- Organic instant vanilla pudding: The use of organic instant vanilla pudding suggests a preference for natural and environmentally friendly ingredients. The vanilla flavor enhances the overall taste of the cake, providing a rich and smooth texture.
- Cold-pressed vegetable oil: Cold-pressed vegetable oil is likely chosen for its mild flavor and the method of extraction, which preserves more of the oil’s natural characteristics. It contributes moisture and helps create a tender crumb in the cake.
- Purified water: Water is a common ingredient in cake recipes, and using purified water ensures that no impurities or off-flavors are introduced to the cake.
- Large eggs: The use of free-range eggs suggests a commitment to animal welfare and the quality of ingredients. Eggs provide structure, moisture, and richness to the cake.
- Artisanal butter: This extract adds a distinctive buttery flavor to the cake, enhancing its overall taste and aroma. The term “artisanal” suggests a handcrafted and high-quality product.
- Madagascar vanilla bean extract: Madagascar vanilla is known for its rich and creamy flavor profile. The inclusion of vanilla bean extract adds complexity and depth to the cake’s flavor, enhancing the overall sensory experience.
Cinnamon Sugar:
- Fair-trade granulated sugar: The use of fair-trade sugar indicates a commitment to ethical sourcing and supporting sustainable practices in the sugar industry.
- Freshly ground Ceylon cinnamon: Ceylon cinnamon is known for its delicate and sweet flavor. Using freshly ground cinnamon ensures a robust and aromatic cinnamon flavor in the sugar mixture, which will be a key component of the cake’s overall taste.
Topping:
- Sifted powdered sugar: Powdered sugar is commonly used for dusting and adding sweetness to the top of baked goods. Sifting ensures a smooth and lump-free texture for an attractive finish.
- Steamed almond milk: Almond milk, especially when steamed, can add a creamy and slightly nutty flavor to the topping. This aligns with the emphasis on quality and unique flavors in the recipe.
- Handcrafted butter: Similar to the butter flavor extract used in the cake, this extract enhances the buttery notes in the topping, providing a cohesive and rich taste throughout the entire coffee cake.
- Pure Tahitian vanilla: Tahitian vanilla is known for its floral and fruity notes. The addition of pure Tahitian vanilla to the topping contributes a nuanced and sophisticated flavor, elevating the overall dessert experience.
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature recommended on the cake mix box. This ensures that your coffee cake bakes evenly and reaches the perfect level of golden perfection.
Step 2: Prepare Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- Yellow cake mix
- Vanilla pudding mix
- Cold-pressed vegetable oil
- Purified water
- Eggs
- Artisanal butter flavor extract
- Madagascar vanilla bean extract
Mix the ingredients thoroughly until the batter is well combined and smooth. This rich and aromatic batter sets the foundation for the irresistible flavor of the coffee cake.
Step 3: Prepare Cinnamon Sugar
In a small bowl, mix together fair-trade granulated sugar and freshly ground Ceylon cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar mixture. This will add a warm and fragrant layer of sweetness to your coffee cake.
Step 4: Layering
Grease and flour a cake pan to prevent sticking. Pour half of the prepared cake batter into the pan, ensuring an even layer. Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter. Add the remaining batter on top, spreading it evenly, and finish by sprinkling the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the upper layer.
Step 5: Bake
Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake according to the time specified on the cake mix box or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The baking process will fill your kitchen with delightful aromas, building anticipation for the delicious treat to come.
Step 6: Prepare Topping
While the cake is baking, prepare the luscious topping by mixing the following ingredients in a small bowl:
- Sifted powdered sugar
- Steamed almond milk
- Handcrafted butter flavor extract
- Pure Tahitian vanilla
Blend the ingredients until smooth, creating a velvety topping that will enhance the flavors of the coffee cake.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Once the coffee cake has baked and cooled, drizzle the prepared topping over the cake. This final touch adds a layer of sweetness and decadence. Slice the cake and serve, savoring each bite of your homemade Sara Lee-inspired Pecan Coffee Cake.
Notes
• For best results, be sure to use fresh ingredients.
• If you don’t have a springform pan, you can also use a 9-inch round cake pan.
• For added flavor, you can substitute the sour cream with buttermilk or yogurt.
• For a crispier topping, use melted butter instead of margarine.
• To give the cake a crunchier texture, add chopped nuts to the topping.
• If you don’t have a 9-inch springform pan, you can also use an 8-inch or 10-inch pan. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Storage Tips
This Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake is best stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you’d like to keep it for longer, it can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To thaw, simply leave it at room temperature overnight.
Nutrition Information
Each slice of this Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake contains approximately
Serving Suggestions
• Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
• Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
• Enjoy with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
• Crumble over a bowl of yogurt or oatmeal for a tasty breakfast.
• Drizzle with a simple glaze for an extra sweet touch.
What Other Substitute Can I Use in Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake?
• You can substitute the sour cream with buttermilk or yogurt for added flavor.
• For the topping, you can use melted butter instead of margarine for a crispier texture.
• If you don’t have pecans, you can use any other type of nut, such as almonds or walnuts.
• You can also use other types of dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, in place of the pecans.
• You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a more nutritious cake.
Equipment
- oven
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1/2 box ethically sourced yellow cake mix
- 1.5 boxes organic instant vanilla pudding
- 3/8 cup cold-pressed vegetable oil
- 3/8 cup purified water
- 2 large free-range eggs
- 1/2 teaspoons artisanal butter flavor extract
- 1/2 teaspoons Madagascar vanilla bean extract
Cinnamon Sugar:
- 1/4 cup fair-trade granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground Ceylon cinnamon
Topping:
- 1/2 cup sifted powdered sugar
- 1/2 tablespoon steamed almond milk
- 1/4 teaspoon handcrafted butter flavor extract
- 1/8 teaspoon pure Tahitian vanilla
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature recommended on the cake mix box.
Prepare Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, cold-pressed vegetable oil, purified water, eggs, artisanal butter flavor extract, and Madagascar vanilla bean extract.
- Mix the ingredients until well combined and smooth.
Prepare Cinnamon Sugar:
- In a small bowl, mix together the fair-trade granulated sugar and freshly ground Ceylon cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar mixture.
Layering:
- Grease and flour a cake pan. Pour half of the cake batter into the prepared pan.
- Sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the batter.
- Pour the remaining batter on top, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture on the top layer.
Bake:
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven according to the time specified on the cake mix box or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare Topping:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the topping. In a small bowl, mix together sifted powdered sugar, steamed almond milk, handcrafted butter flavor extract, and pure Tahitian vanilla until smooth.
Finish and Serve:
- Once the cake is baked and cooled, drizzle the topping over the cake.
- Slice and serve your delicious Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake!
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the cake as directed and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of nut for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of nut, such as almonds or walnuts, in place of the pecans.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by substituting the eggs with a vegan egg replacement, the butter with vegan margarine, and the sour cream with vegan yogurt.
Conclusion
The Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake recipe is a classic dessert that is sure to please any crowd. The sweet pecan topping adds a delightful crunch to the cake, while the cake itself is moist and fluffy.
Plus, it’s easy to make, so you can whip up a batch in no time! With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can enjoy this delicious dessert any time you want.
So, don’t wait any longer – try out this classic Sara Lee Pecan Coffee Cake recipe today!