Why a Cast Iron Pan?

As you will notice, the key to making this apple pecan cake recipe in your Grilla Grill is the cast iron pan. Cast iron pans have been used for generations because they can go on the top of the stove, in the oven, over an open fire and in smokers, too.

If you need to buy a cast iron pan to make this smoked pecan pie bursting with apple flavor, be picky about the pan you invest in. A good cast iron pan will last for decades with proper care, so the decision should not necessarily be based on which one is on sale. Instead, pick a nice big one that has some heft to it. Read reviews about the brand so you know you are getting something that will serve up meal after meal.

A side note about cast iron pans: They need to be seasoned before using. Follow your cast iron pan’s seasoning directions, which make take a day or two. Do not expect to be able to use your cast iron pan immediately! Therefore, if you have a party this weekend and want to make an apple pecan cake grilled on your Grilla Grill smoker, get the cast iron pan in advance. You could also borrow a cast iron pan from a neighbor and make them an extra cake as a thank-you!

Getting the Most out of Your Smoked Pecan Pie Cake

What is the secret to making sure your apple pecan cake recipe actually tastes worthy of second and third servings? Actually, there are several secrets we can share:

• Use crisp, fresh apples that cook well. Soft apples do not hold up in cakes and pies. Some of the varieties that love to be cooked include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp and Braeburn. Have a farmer’s market or orchard in your area? Buy apples by the bushel. They will be tastier, and you will help to support your local economy and agribusinesses.
• Make sure all pecans have been shelled. Even a bit of shell can mar a bite of this wonderful apple pecan cake. Be sure to try substituting other tree nuts like almonds, pistachios and walnuts for the pecans as you get more comfortable making this recipe. You can even mix and match in the same batch for new flavors.
• Opt for real butter, not a butter substitute. Most bakers claim that margarine and other butter substitutes take away the true butter flavor. We would have to agree.
• Go healthier with wheat flour. Switching to wheat flour makes for a change that should not affect the flavor, but it may make the texture a tad denser.
• Play around with different flavors of wood pellets in your smoker. We have hickory, pecan and apple wood pellets that would go amazingly well with this recipe. However, the sky is the limit: Choose the pellets that tempt your taste buds.

Why have an ordinary dessert? Try smoked pecan pie cake tonight!