Are you craving a moist, nutty, and utterly delicious cake that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Nutty Buddy Cake recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike. It's a delightful blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a truly unforgettable dessert. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this easy and healthy-ish (we'll get to that!) cake recipe! This is one of those quick dinner ideas that easily transitions into an amazing dessert.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans, walnuts, or a mix are all delicious!)
- ½ cup chocolate chips (optional, but highly recommended!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake will slide right out once it’s baked.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This simple step helps ensure even leavening throughout your cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. You can use a hand mixer or a stand mixer for this – whichever you prefer! Creaming the butter and sugar incorporates air, making your cake light and tender.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure to fully incorporate each egg before adding the next.
Step 5: Alternate Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined – don't overmix! Overmixing develops gluten and can result in a tough cake.
Step 6: Stir in Nuts and Chocolate Chips
Gently fold in the chopped nuts and chocolate chips (if using). Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve!
Tips for the Best Nutty Buddy Cake:
- Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature for optimal creaming and mixing.
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix until just combined.
- Check for doneness: Use a wooden skewer or toothpick to check if the cake is baked through. If it comes out clean, it's ready!
Variations:
- Different nuts: Experiment with different types of nuts, such as pecans, walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts.
- Add-ins: Get creative with add-ins! Try adding dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped candied ginger.
- Frosting: Top your cake with your favorite frosting – cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or even a simple powdered sugar glaze would all be delicious.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per slice is:
- Calories: 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 4-5g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Sugar: 20-25g
This Nutty Buddy Cake is the perfect homemade treat for any occasion. Enjoy!