This Butter Pecan Cake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. With its rich, buttery flavor, toasted pecans, and creamy frosting, it’s a treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter 🧈
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans 🌰
- 2 cups all-purpose flour 🌾
- 2 tsp baking powder 🍰
- ½ tsp baking soda ⚖️
- ½ tsp salt 🧂
- 1 cup granulated sugar 🍚
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed 🍯
- 4 large eggs 🥚
- 1 cup whole milk 🥛
- 2 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀
- 4 cups powdered sugar 🍚
- 2 tsp vanilla extract 🍦
- 2 tbsp heavy cream 🥛
For the Garnish (Optional):
- Extra pecans 🌰
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy removal. 🔥
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
- Melt 1 cup unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 ½ cups chopped pecans and cook, stirring occasionally, until the pecans are lightly toasted and fragrant (about 4-5 minutes). Remove from heat and let cool. 🌰
Step 3: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. 🌾
Step 4: Mix the Sugars and Eggs
- In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and the toasted pecans (including the butter used for toasting). Mix until well combined. 🍯
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. 🥚
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the sugar mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined. 🥄
- Stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor. 🍦
Step 6: Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 🎂
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream, then beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. 🍥
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. 🌰
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
- For an extra touch, garnish the top of the cake with additional pecans. Slice, serve, and enjoy this rich and decadent Butter Pecan Cake! 🍰
Notes
- Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their natural flavor and adds a nutty depth to the cake.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room-temperature eggs, butter, and cream cheese for a smoother batter and frosting.
- Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting.
2. Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! Bake the cake layers a day in advance, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Frost the cake just before serving.
3. Can I freeze Butter Pecan Cake?
Yes! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
4. Can I add more pecans?
Of course! You can increase the amount of pecans in the batter or use them generously for garnish.
5. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Ensure other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Conclusion
This Butter Pecan Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s as rich in flavor as it is simple to prepare. The buttery toasted pecans, fluffy cake layers, and smooth cream cheese frosting make it perfect for any celebration—or just because you deserve a sweet treat!
Serve it up with a cup of coffee or tea, and enjoy a slice (or two) of this Southern classic. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and again. 🌰🍰✨