Description
This classic Vanilla Wafer Cake combines the nostalgic flavor of crushed vanilla wafers with rich butter, sugar, eggs, and a delightful mix of pecans and sweetened coconut flakes. Baked to golden perfection in a Bundt pan, it delivers a moist, flavorful dessert perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 cups sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 1 (11-oz) box vanilla wafers, crushed
- ½ cup milk
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups finely chopped pecans
- 1 (7-oz) package sweetened coconut flakes
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 325ºF (163ºC). Grease and flour a Bundt cake pan thoroughly to ensure the cake won’t stick, then set it aside while you prepare the batter.
- Mix Butter and Sugar: In the bowl of an electric stand mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar together on medium speed until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This step incorporates air to help the cake rise.
- Add Eggs and Other Wet Ingredients: Add the six large eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate. Then add the crushed vanilla wafers and milk; continue mixing until the batter is smooth and uniform.
- Incorporate Vanilla, Pecans, and Coconut: Stir in the vanilla extract, finely chopped pecans, and sweetened coconut flakes by hand using a spatula or spoon to evenly distribute these ingredients throughout the batter without overmixing.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured Bundt pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting time helps the cake set and makes it easier to remove from the pan without breaking.
- Remove and Finish Cooling: After 10 minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a cooling rack. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the butter is properly softened to room temperature for easy mixing.
- Crush the vanilla wafers finely for better incorporation into the batter and smoother texture.
- Use fresh pecans to maintain a crunchy texture and rich nutty flavor.
- If you prefer, substitute whole milk for 2% milk for a lighter cake.
- Properly grease and flour the Bundt pan to prevent sticking and allow easy release.
- Cooling the cake completely before slicing gives cleaner cuts and a better presentation.
