If you’re searching for a classic Southern dessert with a rich, buttery crumb and a warm cinnamon swirl, this easy sock it to me cake from scratch is exactly what you need. Made without cake mix and built entirely from simple pantry staples, this homemade cake delivers authentic flavor, the perfect texture, and comforting sweetness in every bite. It’s the kind of cake people remember, the kind they pass around at family gatherings, church suppers, and holiday dinners.

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This easy sock it to me cake from scratch features a moist vanilla pound cake base, a sweet cinnamon-pecan filling in the middle, and a silky vanilla glaze poured on top. The layers of flavor blend perfectly: buttery cake, warm spices, crunchy nuts, and a smooth finishing glaze. No shortcuts. No boxed mix. Just real ingredients and real old-fashioned goodness.

If you enjoy homemade comfort desserts, you’ll also love the No-Bake Cheesecake on MagmaKitchen, a smooth and easy dessert you can make anytime:
https://www.magmakitchen.com/no-bake-cheesecake/

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s look at why this easy sock it to me cake from scratch continues to be one of the most iconic Southern cakes ever made.

Why This Easy Sock It To Me Cake From Scratch Works

1. Real, Simple Ingredients

This recipe uses butter, flour, eggs, sour cream, cinnamon, sugar, and pecans—nothing artificial. The flavor is cleaner, deeper, and far more satisfying than cake mix versions.

2. Moist and Tender Texture

Sour cream keeps the crumb soft and moist for days. Combined with whole milk and real butter, it creates a luxurious cake texture that doesn’t dry out quickly.

3. The Cinnamon-Pecan Swirl

The swirl is the heart of this easy sock it to me cake from scratch. Cinnamon, brown sugar, and pecans melt into the batter as it bakes, forming a sweet, warm streak through the center.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Serve it during the holidays, family gatherings, potlucks, birthdays, Sunday dinners, or as a simple cozy treat with coffee.

5. No Cake Mix Needed

Many modern versions rely on cake mix. This one doesn’t. You get full control over the flavor, moisture level, and texture.

Ingredients You Will Need

For the Cake

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs, room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream (full-fat)
• ½ cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Cinnamon Pecan Swirl

• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted optional)

For the Glaze

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons milk or heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make This Easy Sock It To Me Cake From Scratch

1. Preheat the Oven

• Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.

2. Prepare the Batter

Whisk Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk:

• flour
• baking powder
• baking soda
• salt

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream softened butter and sugar for 3–4 minutes until light and fluffy.

Add Eggs

Beat in the eggs, one at a time. Mix well after each addition.

Add Vanilla

Stir in the vanilla extract.

Alternate Dry Ingredients with Sour Cream and Milk

Add the flour mixture in three additions, alternating with:

• sour cream
• whole milk

Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix gently to avoid overworking the batter.

3. Add the Cinnamon-Pecan Swirl

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped pecans.

Pour half of the cake batter into the Bundt pan.
Sprinkle the cinnamon-pecan mixture evenly on top.
Pour the remaining batter over the swirl and smooth the surface.

This is what gives the easy sock it to me cake from scratch its distinctive layered look and flavor.

4. Bake the Cake

Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the thickest part comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack to cool completely.

5. Make the Glaze

Mix together:

• powdered sugar
• milk or heavy cream
• vanilla extract

Whisk until smooth, then drizzle over the completely cooled cake.

Extra Tips for the Best Results

Use Room Temperature Ingredients

This ensures smooth mixing and a consistent cake texture.

Do Not Overmix

Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense.

Toast the Pecans

Adds a deeper nutty flavor.

Grease the Bundt Pan Thoroughly

Bundt cakes have crevices where batter sticks easily.

Let the Cake Cool Fully Before Glazing

Glazing a warm cake will cause the glaze to melt instead of coating.

Serving Suggestions

This easy sock it to me cake from scratch pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.

This easy sock it to me cake from scratch can be served:

• With vanilla ice cream
• As a holiday dessert
• With whipped cream
• On a brunch table
• As a dessert gift

Its simple, comforting flavor pairs well with almost anything.
Overall, this easy sock it to me cake from scratch is versatile enough for any season or gathering.

Storage Instructions

To keep your easy sock it to me cake from scratch tasting fresh and moist, proper storage is essential.

Room Temperature

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Refrigerator

Keeps fresh for up to 7 days.

Freezer

Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.

Recommended Tools

When making an easy sock it to me cake from scratch, using a durable Bundt pan ensures even baking and clean release.
Here’s a recommended option:
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FAQ

Can I leave out the pecans?

Yes, you can skip them or use walnuts instead.

Can I replace sour cream with yogurt?

Full-fat Greek yogurt works very well.

Can I bake in loaf pans instead of a Bundt pan?

Yes. Divide the batter into two loaf pans and bake about 45–55 minutes.

Why is it called Sock It To Me Cake?

The cake became popular during the 1960s and 70s when the phrase “Sock it to me!” was trending nationally.