Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake

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🥥 Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake: A Moist, Southern-Style Classic with Irresistible Flavor

If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping cake that’s rich, moist, and packed with Southern charm, look no further than this Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake. This recipe is the perfect blend of nutty, sweet, and tangy flavors, all tied together with the soft, tender texture that only buttermilk can deliver. Whether you’re planning a special celebration, potluck, or just craving something nostalgic and homemade, this cake will not disappoint.

In this post, you’ll learn why this cake is beloved by so many, how to make it from scratch, and tips for storing, serving, and customizing it. Plus, we’ll include SEO-friendly keywords, variations, and nutritional pointers to help make your content stand out on Google.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Cake

  • Ultra-moist texture thanks to buttermilk and butter
  • Crunchy toasted pecans that add richness and depth
  • Shredded coconut for tropical sweetness
  • Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or casual weekend baking
  • Easy to make with pantry staples
  • A classic Southern dessert that never goes out of style

This cake is often compared to Italian Cream Cake, but with less fuss and even more buttery goodness.

🧾 Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this beautiful cake to life:

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
  • 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)

Optional Coconut-Pecan Frosting:

  • 1/2 cup butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 cup sweetened coconut flakes
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan or two 8-inch round cake pans. Toast the pecans in a dry pan over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant (optional but recommended).

2. Mix the Cake Batter

  • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  • Beat in the eggs, one at a time.
  • Add in the oil, buttermilk, and vanilla.
  • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda.
  • Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
  • Fold in the coconut and chopped pecans.

3. Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

4. Make the Frosting (Optional but Amazing)

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar.
  • Add the evaporated milk and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
  • Remove from heat, then stir in the coconut, pecans, and vanilla.
  • Spread the warm frosting over the cooled cake.

🍰 Serving Suggestions

This cake is delicious served plain, but it’s even better with:

  • A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream
  • A dollop of whipped cream
  • A drizzle of warm caramel
  • A hot cup of coffee or sweet tea

You can also bake it in a bundt pan or as cupcakes for portioned servings.

🧊 Storage Tips

  • Room Temperature: Keep covered and enjoy within 2–3 days.
  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
  • Freezer: Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.

🔁 Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is versatile! Try these customizations:

  • Make it gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
  • Add pineapple: Mix 1/2 cup crushed pineapple (drained) into the batter.
  • Use walnuts instead of pecans.
  • Add a cream cheese frosting for a tangier finish.
  • Make it tropical with coconut extract and lime zest.

🧘 Healthier Options

While this is a traditional dessert, you can make it lighter by:

  • Reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup
  • Using unsweetened coconut flakes
  • Swapping butter for Greek yogurt or applesauce
  • Using whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber

🔍 SEO Keyword Suggestions

To help this post rank on Google, consider including the following long-tail keywords:

  • Southern buttermilk coconut cake recipe
  • Easy coconut pecan sheet cake
  • Old-fashioned buttermilk cake with coconut
  • Homemade coconut cake with pecans
  • Moist coconut cake with brown sugar frosting
  • Buttermilk cake recipe with toasted pecans

💬 Final Thoughts

This Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake is one of those timeless desserts that brings warmth to any occasion. Its old-fashioned roots and indulgent flavor make it a family favorite — and with just a few easy steps, it’s simple enough for even beginner bakers to master.

Whether you’re baking it for a celebration or just because you love homemade cake, this recipe promises flavor, comfort, and Southern hospitality in every bite.

📌 Save & Share!

If you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it on Pinterest, Facebook, or your favorite food blog. Tag it with #SouthernCoconutCake to join the baking community online!

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