A Boozy, Nutty Delight
If you love rich, moist cakes with a hint of indulgent liqueur, this Southern Comfort Cake is the perfect dessert for you. Infused with the warm, caramel-like flavors of Southern Comfort liqueur and the crunch of walnuts, this cake is as comforting as it is delicious. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering, a cozy weekend treat, or just because you have a sweet tooth, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cake is for those who enjoy an easy-to-make dessert with an elevated taste. It’s great for:
- Boozy dessert lovers – The Southern Comfort adds a unique depth of flavor.
- Holiday gatherings – A perfect addition to Thanksgiving or Christmas tables.
- Beginner bakers – Simple ingredients and easy steps make it a great starting point.
- Anyone who loves a moist, tender cake – Thanks to the pudding mix and the liqueur, this cake stays soft and rich for days.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this decadent Southern Comfort Cake:
- 1 (18.25 ounce) package yellow cake mix
- 1 (3.5 ounce) package instant vanilla pudding mix
- 4 eggs
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup Southern Comfort liqueur
- 1 ½ cups chopped walnuts
Kitchen Equipment Needed
To prepare this cake, gather the following kitchen tools:
- 9-inch bundt pan
- Mixing bowl
- Hand or stand mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Non-stick cooking spray
- Toothpick (for doneness test)
- Cooling rack
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray the bundt pan generously with non-stick cooking spray.
- Mix the ingredients – In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, vanilla pudding mix, eggs, milk, vegetable oil, Southern Comfort liqueur, and chopped walnuts.
- Beat for 2 minutes – Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the mixture until smooth.
- Pour into the bundt pan – Evenly distribute the batter in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 60-70 minutes – Check with a toothpick; it should come out clean when inserted into the center.
- Cool the cake – Let it sit in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving dish.
- Enjoy! – Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Southern Comfort Cake
- Use quality ingredients – A good cake mix and fresh eggs make a big difference.
- Don’t skip the pudding mix – This adds moisture and enhances the cake’s texture.
- Toast the walnuts – Lightly toasting the walnuts before adding them to the batter brings out their flavor.
- Let it rest overnight – The flavors develop even more if you let the cake sit for a day before serving.
Variations & Swaps
- Nut-Free Option – Skip the walnuts if you have allergies.
- Different Liqueurs – Try Amaretto, Bourbon, or Rum for a twist.
- Glazed Finish – Drizzle with a Southern Comfort-infused glaze for extra richness.
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your cake fresh:
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to a week for a longer shelf life.
- Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 3 months.
Perfect Pairings
- Drink Pairings: A cup of coffee, warm spiced tea, or even a Southern Comfort cocktail complements this cake beautifully.
- Food Pairings: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
FAQ
Can I make this cake without alcohol?
Yes! Replace the Southern Comfort with an equal amount of orange juice or apple cider for a similar depth of flavor.
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Absolutely! A butter pecan or spice cake mix would work well with this recipe.
Can I make this into cupcakes?
Yes, just adjust the baking time to 18-22 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Comfort Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its rich, nutty flavor and moist, tender crumb. Whether you serve it as a holiday dessert or a casual weekend treat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home.
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