ADVERTISEMENT
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Butter Pecan Cake
1. Prepare the Pecans
Start by toasting the pecans. Toasting nuts intensifies their flavor and adds a beautiful crunch to the cake. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread the pecans on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Toast them in the oven for about 8–10 minutes, stirring once or twice, until they are fragrant and lightly golden brown. Let them cool before chopping them into small pieces.
2. Make the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or a 9×13-inch baking dish).
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and butter extract (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in batches, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
- Gently fold in the chopped toasted pecans.
3. Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans (or pour it into your 9×13-inch dish).
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes for round cake pans, or 40-45 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan. To check if the cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean.
- Once done, remove from the oven and allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the Butter Pecan Frosting
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the butter pecan frosting.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk, and beat until smooth. Add more milk if needed to achieve a spreadable consistency.
- Stir in the toasted pecans and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness of the frosting.
5. Frost the Cake
- Once the cake has completely cooled, spread a layer of the butter pecan frosting between the two cake layers. Then, spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish with more toasted pecans if desired for extra texture and flavor.
6. Slice and Serve
- Let the cake set for a few minutes to allow the frosting to firm up a bit. Then, slice and serve this moist, decadent butter pecan cake to your friends and family.
Serving Suggestions
This Butter Pecan Cake is perfect as is, but here are a few ways to elevate the experience:
- Serve with a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool ice cream pairs wonderfully with the rich, nutty flavors of the cake.
- Top with Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds an airy, fluffy contrast to the dense cake.
- Pair with a Hot Drink: A slice of Butter Pecan Cake goes perfectly with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of warm milk for a truly comforting experience.
Storage Tips
- Keep the Cake Fresh: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: This cake also freezes well! Wrap the individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before serving.
Why This Butter Pecan Cake is So Special
This Butter Pecan Cake strikes the perfect balance of flavors—sweet, nutty, and rich, without being overwhelming. The toasted pecans bring a depth of flavor that makes every bite a little bit of heaven, and the butter pecan frosting ties everything together with its creamy, nutty goodness. It’s a dessert that is equally fit for a celebration or a simple afternoon treat with a cup of tea.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Butter Pecan Cake, you’ll never want to let this recipe go. It’s a dessert that combines the best of rich butter, toasted nuts, and soft, tender cake—a treat that’s simply irresistible. So, don’t lose this recipe! Keep it on hand for every occasion, and get ready to impress your friends and family with this indulgent, melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece.
Happy baking! 🍰✨
ADVERTISEMENT
