Southern Eggnog Cake

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Southern Eggnog Cake.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   While it warms up, take two 9-inch round baking pans and give them a good greasing and dusting with flour to ensure your cakes slide out easily later.

3. Step 3

   In a large mixing bowl, grab your electric mixer and beat together 1 ¼ cups of sugar and ½ cup of softened butter until the mixture becomes light and fluffy—this is where the magic begins! Next, add in your eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition.

4. Step 4

   To enhance the flavor, stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and ¼ teaspoon of lemon peel, which will add a delightful zing.

5. Step 5

   In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt.

6. Step 6

   Now, it’s time to combine the dry ingredients with the batter.

7. Step 7

   Do this gradually, alternating with 1 cup of eggnog, and mix until everything is just combined.

8. Step 8

   For a special touch, fold in some bourbon whiskey to elevate the flavor profile.

9. Step 9

   Once your batter is ready, divide it evenly between the prepared pans and pop them into the oven.

10. Step 10

    Bake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—this is the moment of truth! After baking, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before gently inverting them onto a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Step 11

    While the cakes are cooling, let’s whip up a luscious frosting.

12. Step 12

    In a saucepan, combine ¼ cup of flour and ¼ teaspoon of salt, then gradually whisk in 1 ½ cups of eggnog until smooth.

13. Step 13

    Bring this mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.

14. Step 14

    Once it reaches a boil, continue cooking for another 2 minutes, whisking constantly until it thickens beautifully.

15. Step 15

    Remove it from the heat and allow it to cool to room temperature.

16. Step 16

    In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 ½ cups of sugar and 1 cup of butter until the mixture is light in color and fluffy.

17. Step 17

    Once your eggnog mixture has cooled, mix it in along with 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla extract, a splash of rum extract, and 1/8 teaspoon of grated lemon peel.

18. Step 18

    Beat everything on high speed until your frosting is irresistibly fluffy.

19. Step 19

    Now, it’s time to assemble your cake! Spread a generous layer of frosting between the cooled cake layers, stack them up, and then frost the top and sides.

20. Step 20

    For a delightful finishing touch, press toasted pecans onto the sides of the cake in small handfuls, adding both texture and flavor.

21. Step 21

    Finally, refrigerate your masterpiece until you’re ready to serve.

22. Step 22

    Enjoy every delicious bite of this festive treat!.