Butter Pecan Cake

Butter Pecan Cake: A Decadent Southern Classic

by

Butter Pecan Cake is the ultimate dessert for those who love the rich, buttery flavor of pecans paired with a moist, tender cake. This Southern classic takes everything we adore about butter pecan ice cream and transforms it into an indulgent, crowd-pleasing dessert. Imagine layers of fluffy cake infused with toasted pecans and buttery goodness, all topped with a luscious buttercream frosting. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday gathering, or simply to treat yourself, this Butter Pecan Cake is guaranteed to impress.

I can’t wait to share this recipe with you because it’s truly a labor of love—and worth every single bite. From the caramelized nuttiness of the pecans to the sweet, buttery richness of the cake, every element comes together to create a masterpiece. Ready to bake your new favorite cake? Let’s dive into the details and make something unforgettable!

Why You’ll Love Butter Pecan Cake

Butter Pecan Cake is the kind of dessert that turns heads and earns compliments wherever it’s served. Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this cake:

  1. Rich, Buttery Flavor: The combination of toasted pecans and buttery cake is a match made in dessert heaven.
  2. Incredibly Moist: Thanks to the addition of sour cream or buttermilk, the cake stays soft and tender with every bite.
  3. Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual get-together, a holiday meal, or a wedding celebration, Butter Pecan Cake fits the bill.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: Its familiar, comforting flavors make it a hit with people of all ages.
  5. Homemade Goodness: While it’s simple to make, the from-scratch flavors give it that special, homemade touch.

What Does Butter Pecan Cake Taste Like?

Butter Pecan Cake tastes like the best parts of the South, baked into a slice. The cake itself is buttery and nutty, with the toasted pecans providing a deep, caramelized flavor. The texture is light yet rich, with a moist crumb that melts in your mouth. Pair that with a silky buttercream frosting, often enhanced with hints of vanilla or brown sugar, and you’ve got a dessert that’s indulgent without being overly sweet. Every forkful is balanced with just the right amount of crunch from the pecans, making it as satisfying as it is delicious.

The Benefits of Butter Pecan Cake

Aside from being absolutely scrumptious, Butter Pecan Cake offers several practical benefits:

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: The cake layers can be baked in advance, making it perfect for events and parties.
  • Customizable: You can add different frostings, fillings, or garnishes to suit your taste.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Both the cake and frosting can be frozen, so you can prep it ahead of time.
  • A True Showstopper: Its golden layers and pecan garnish make it visually stunning, ideal for special occasions.
  • Easy to Scale: Whether you’re baking for a small family or a large crowd, this recipe is easy to double or halve.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious Butter Pecan Cake:

For the Cake:

  • Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks) – Provides the rich, buttery flavor.
  • Granulated Sugar: 2 cups – For sweetness.
  • Brown Sugar: ½ cup – Adds a hint of caramelized flavor.
  • Eggs: 4 large – For structure and richness.
  • All-Purpose Flour: 2 ¾ cups – The base of the cake.
  • Baking Powder: 2 teaspoons – Helps the cake rise.
  • Baking Soda: ½ teaspoon – Adds extra lift.
  • Salt: ½ teaspoon – Balances the sweetness.
  • Buttermilk or Sour Cream: 1 cup – Ensures a moist, tender crumb.
  • Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons – Enhances the flavor.
  • Chopped Pecans: 1 ½ cups – Toasted for extra nuttiness.

For the Butter Pecan Frosting:

  • Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened – The base of the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: 4 cups – For sweetness.
  • Heavy Cream: 2-4 tablespoons – To achieve the perfect consistency.
  • Vanilla Extract: 2 teaspoons – Adds flavor.
  • Chopped Pecans: ½ cup – Folded into the frosting or used as garnish.

Optional Garnishes:

  • Whole Pecans: For decorating the top.
  • Caramel Sauce: Drizzle for added decadence.
  • Edible Gold Dust: For an extra fancy touch.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: For creaming the butter and sugar.
  • Mixing Bowls: One for dry ingredients, one for wet.
  • Spatula: For folding in the pecans.
  • Cake Pans: Two or three 8-inch or 9-inch pans, depending on the desired height.
  • Parchment Paper: To line the pans and prevent sticking.
  • Cooling Racks: For cooling the cake layers evenly.
  • Offset Spatula: For frosting the cake smoothly.

Customizations and Variations

Butter Pecan Cake is a versatile dessert that can be tailored to your preferences. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

  • Salted Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of salted caramel sauce between the layers or on top for extra indulgence.
  • Chocolate Pecan Cake: Mix chocolate chips into the batter or top the cake with chocolate ganache.
  • Cream Cheese Frosting: Swap the buttercream for tangy cream cheese frosting for a lighter contrast to the buttery cake.
  • Layered Elegance: Add a layer of pecan praline filling or whipped cream between the cake layers.
  • Nut-Free Option: Replace the pecans with toasted coconut or leave them out entirely for a butter cake.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Butter Pecan Cake1: Toast the Pecans

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Spread the chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet.
  3. Toast for 6-8 minutes, stirring halfway through, until fragrant. Let them cool completely.

2: Make the Cake Batter

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-5 minutes).
  2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk or sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  5. Fold in the toasted pecans gently with a spatula.

3: Bake the Cake Layers

  1. Grease and line your cake pans with parchment paper.
  2. Divide the batter evenly between the pans.
  3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  4. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

4: Make the Frosting

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Add the heavy cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.
  4. Fold in the chopped pecans or reserve them for garnish.

5: Assemble the Cake

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
  2. Repeat with the remaining layers, frosting the top and sides of the cake.
  3. Decorate with whole pecans, toasted chopped pecans, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

What to Serve with Butter Pecan Cake

Butter Pecan Cake is a rich dessert that pairs beautifully with lighter, complementary sides. Here are some serving ideas:

  • Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream balances the buttery richness.
  • Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast.
  • Hot Coffee or Tea: The warm, slightly bitter notes of coffee or tea enhance the cake’s sweetness.
  • Fresh Berries: Serve with strawberries or raspberries for a tart contrast.

Tips for the Perfect Butter Pecan Cake

  1. Use Fresh Pecans: Freshly toasted pecans provide the best flavor and texture.
  2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
  3. Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so mix just until combined.
  4. Chill the Frosting: If the frosting becomes too soft while decorating, refrigerate it for a few minutes to firm it up.
  5. Level the Layers: Use a serrated knife to level the cake layers for a professional-looking finish.

Storage Instructions

  • Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
  • Freezing: Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour.

Q: Can I use salted butter?
A: If using salted butter, reduce the added salt in the recipe by half.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The cake layers can be baked a day in advance, and the assembled cake can be stored in the fridge until ready to serve.

Q: What if I don’t have buttermilk?
A: You can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Wrapping It Up: Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Cake

Butter Pecan Cake is the perfect combination of buttery, nutty, and sweet flavors, making it a dessert that’s impossible to resist. Its tender crumb, toasted pecans, and creamy frosting come together in a way that feels both nostalgic and luxurious. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake is easy to make and guaranteed to impress.

I hope this recipe inspires you to try your hand at baking this Southern classic. If you do, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave a comment, share your photos on Pinterest, or tag me on social media. Let’s spread the joy of Butter Pecan Cake, one slice at a time!

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approximate)

  • Calories: 480
  • Protein: 5g
  • Carbs: 56g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Fiber: 2g

Looking for more Southern-inspired desserts? Try my recipes for Pecan Pie Bars, Hummingbird Cake, or Peach Cobbler! Happy baking!

Leave a Comment