What is Louisiana Crunch Cake? Is it like a coffee cake and Pound Cake had baby, and that baby was dipped in the most heavenly chocolate? What are some of the This isn’t your average cake; it’s a slice of Southern comfort that I grew up with. I remember my grandmother’s kitchen, the smell of warm vanilla filling the air. If you love a good crumbly cake with topped with crunchy topping, this will knock your socks off. What is a coffee cake like? Is there an irresistible Is it better than coffee cake? I’ve tweaked and perfect this recipe over the years, and I’m so excited to share it with you.
What is Louisiana Crunch Cake?
Louisiana Crunch Cake is, at its heart, a moist and buttery cake with an distinctive crunchy topping. Is it a rich cake soaked with sweet glaze that crystallizes as it cools? What an amazing “cru ” The name comes from that delightful sugary crust, and it’s popular in Louisiana and other parts of the world. ” What’s a Coffee Cake? It’s essentially a simple cake elevated by glazed edges. Is sugar coma dangerous?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love most about this Louisiana Crunch Cake is how it’s both incredibly flavorful and easy to make. What are some easy recipes to make?
- Flavor:What is a symphony of flavors: the buttery cake, the sweet, nutty filling, and that glorious glaze? Does it really work? The inside is soft and buttery, and the outside is like a crunchy candy shell. It’s hard to beat.
- Simplicity:What is the easiest cake you’ve ever baked? What are some of the easiest steps to follow if you have all the ingredients in your pantry? Is this recipe really easy to make?
- Cost-What is the best Louisiana Crunch Cake? What are some of the best ingredients to cook without breaking the bank? What is better than eating a delicious cake and saving money?
- Versatility:I love that you can serve this for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or even as a snack with your favorite cup of coffee. Is it always a hit no matter what you serve it? I’ve seen people drizzle chocolate sauce over it for an extra special treat. What are some of the best birthday cake ideas?
If you love a good Pound Cake or coffee cake, you’ll absolutely adore this. I always make this cake for parties. Is it something that everyone enjoys? I’m telling you, you need this cake in your life! What is it like to bring a new neighbor or family member to make them feel welcome?
How do I make Louisiana Crunch Cake?
Quick Overview
How do I make a delicious cake? What’s a good cake to make? After that, you’ll layer the batter and filling in a pan, bake it until golden brown, and then serve. What is the best way to drench it in a lusc What’s the best part about the glaze? What is your go-to cake when you need something delicious and easy?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
- I always use unbleached flour for the best flavor and texture. 2 cups all-purpose flour.
- 1 12 cups granulated sugar: You can reduce this slightly if you prefer a less sweet cake.
- 34 cup unsalted butter, softened: Make sure it’s *really* soft – almost melted – for a smooth batter.
- 3 large eggs: Use room-temperature eggs for better emulsification.
- What is the best way to use 1 cup milk? I’ve even used almond milk, and it turned out great!
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- What is the best way to use pure vanilla extract?
- 12 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
For the Filling:
- I prefer toasting pecans lightly for a richer flavor. 1 cup chopped peaches: I like to toast them lightly.
- 1 cup shredded coconut: Sweetened or unsweetened, depending on your preference.
- 12 cup packed brown sugar: Adds a caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted: Helps bind the filling together.
- What are some good uses for ground cinnamon?
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup granulated sugar: The foundation of our crunchy glaze!
- 12 cup unsalted butter: Gives the glaze its richness and shine.
- 14 cup milk: Helps create the right consistency.
- What is vanilla extract?
- 14 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and prevents it from being cloying.
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. I always do this first to make sure the pan is ready when the batter is. If you don’t have flour, you can use baking spray with flour. This step is CRUCIAL to prevent the cake from sticking!
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. What is the best way to distribute baking powder evenly? Don’t skip this step! You want the wet ingredients to be well incorporated before you add them to the dry ingredients.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. What is a stand mixer? Beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure the eggs and milk are at room temperature to prevent the batter from curdling.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix cake, as this can lead to a tough cake. I always stop mixing when I still see streaks of flour and then gently fold them in with a fork.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped pecans, shredded coconut, Brown Sugar, and melted butter. Set aside. Mix well until everything is evenly coated. Can you customize this filling to your liking? Is it safe to eat chocolate chips?
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
If you have a cake pan, pour half of the batter into it. Sprinkle the filling evenly over the Cake Batter. Pour the remaining batter over the filling. Use a knife or skewer to swirl the filling into the batter. Don’t overdo it – just a few swirls will do the trick! What are the beautiful pockets of filling on a cake?
Step 7: Bake
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Should a cake be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched? Keep an eye on it towards the end of baking, as ovens can vary. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
While the cake is baking, prepare the glaze. In a saucepan, combine the sugar, butter, and milk. Stir until combined. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the butter is thick. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. What are some holes in a cake? How do you spread the glaze over a cake? Let the cake cool completely before slicing. The glaze will harden and create that amazing crunchy texture!
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Once the cake is completely cool and the glaze has set, slice it into squares and serve. I like to dust mine with a little powdered sugar for an extra touch of elegance. This cake is best served at room temperature. Make sure the glaze has set completely!
What to Serve It With
This cake is truly amazing all on its own, but if you’re looking to create a complete culinary experience, here are some serving suggestions:
For Breakfast: Serve a slice of Louisiana Crunch Cake alongside a cup of strong, hot coffee. The richness of the cake pairs perfectly with the bitterness of the coffee. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-indulgent treat.
For Brunch: Elevate your brunch spread by including this cake. It looks beautiful on a platter alongside fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, and mimosas. The sweetness of the cake balances out the savory elements of a brunch perfectly.
As Dessert: After a satisfying meal, a slice of this cake is the perfect ending. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of chocolate sauce, or a handful of fresh berries. It’s also delicious with a glass of sweet dessert wine or a cup of herbal tea.
For Cozy Snacks: Sometimes, you just need a little something sweet to get you through the afternoon. A slice of Louisiana Crunch Cake with a cup of coffee or tea is the perfect pick-me-up. It’s also great for sharing with friends and family during a cozy gathering.
My family tradition is to eat this on Christmas morning with coffee and hot chocolate. It is the perfect start to the holidays! No matter how you serve it, this Louisiana Crunch Cake is sure to be a hit. It’s a versatile treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Louisiana Crunch Cake
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to ensure my Louisiana Crunch Cake is always perfect. Here are my top tips:
Mixing Advice: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake. Mix until just combined, and then gently fold in any remaining streaks of flour. The texture should be light and airy, not dense and heavy.
Swirl Customization: Have fun with the swirl pattern! You can create different designs by using a knife, skewer, or even a chopstick. Experiment with different techniques to see what you like best. Just remember not to over-swirl, as this can muddy the colors and create a less defined pattern.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have pecans on hand, you can substitute walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts. For a nut-free option, you can use sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds. You can also swap out the coconut for other ingredients, such as dried cranberries, chocolate chips, or chopped toffee.
Baking Tips: Keep a close eye on the cake while it’s baking. Ovens can vary, so it’s important to check for doneness frequently. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can tent it with foil. To test for doneness, insert a wooden skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it comes out with wet batter, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Glaze Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different glaze flavors. You can add a touch of lemon zest, orange zest, or even a splash of bourbon to the glaze for a unique twist. For a chocolate glaze, simply add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder to the mixture. You can also adjust the consistency of the glaze by adding more or less milk. If you prefer a thicker glaze, use less milk. If you prefer a thinner glaze, use more milk.
Glaze Timing Advice: Make sure to pour the glaze over the cake while it’s still warm. This allows the glaze to seep into the cake and create that amazing crunchy texture. If you wait until the cake is completely cool, the glaze won’t penetrate as well.
I once added too much baking powder and the cake rose way too much! It was a total disaster, but I learned my lesson. It’s all about experimenting and finding what works best for you.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Louisiana Crunch Cake fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. I find that it tastes best within the first 2 days.
Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from absorbing odors from the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer Instructions: If you want to store the cake for an even longer period, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then wrap it again in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving. You can also freeze individual slices for easy snacking.
Glaze Timing Advice: It’s best to add the glaze after thawing if you’re freezing the cake. This will prevent the glaze from becoming soggy. You can also make the glaze ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
I usually store my cake in the refrigerator, as it tends to last longer. But honestly, it never lasts very long in my house!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! My go-to Louisiana Crunch Cake recipe that will bring a little Southern charm to your kitchen. The combination of the buttery cake, crunchy glaze, and nutty filling is simply irresistible, and it’s a recipe that I know you’ll make again and again. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s easy, impressive, and incredibly delicious, look no further. I really do think it is the perfect cake. You need to make this cake. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out my other cake recipes for more sweet treats! Happy baking, y’all! Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if you’ve tried the recipe! Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your own variations – I can’t wait to see what you come up with!
Louisiana Crunch Cake: 7 Secrets to the Perfectly Moist Southern Dessert
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box Yellow Cake Mix Duncan Hines recommended
- 4 oz Instant Vanilla Pudding small box
- 4 Eggs
- 1 cup Vegetable Oil
- 1 cup Water
Icing
- 1 cup Butter
- 1 cup Sugar
- 0.25 cup Milk
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 1 cup Pecan Pieces
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, oil, and water. Beat with an electric mixer until well combined.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the icing. In a saucepan, melt butter. Add sugar and milk, and bring to a boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pecans.
- As soon as the cake comes out of the oven, pour the icing evenly over the top. Let cool completely before serving.
