If you’re a fan of nutty flavors and moist cakes, this Butter Pecan Cake recipe is perfect for you. Made with rich butter and crunchy pecans, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether for a holiday celebration or a casual weekend treat, this cake will surely satisfy your sweet tooth. Follow along to bake the ultimate butter pecan cake.
Ingredients
To make this butter pecan cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ teaspoon salt
Preparing the Pecans
Before mixing your cake batter, prepare the pecans to add extra flavor. Toast 1 cup of chopped pecans in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally for 4-5 minutes until golden and aromatic. Set the pecans aside to cool.
Making the Cake Batter
- Cream the butter and sugar. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This step is key to ensuring your cake has a soft texture.
- Add eggs one at a time. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Alternate wet and dry ingredients. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in pecans. Gently fold the toasted pecans into the batter.
Baking the Cake
- Preheat the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Divide and bake. Divide the cake batter evenly between the two pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes. Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Butter Pecan Frosting
While the cakes are cooling, you can prepare the butter pecan frosting for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients for Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Frosting Directions:
- Cream the butter. Beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Add powdered sugar and vanilla. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth.
- Add cream. Slowly add the heavy cream, beating until the frosting is fluffy.
- Fold in pecans. Fold in the chopped pecans to give the frosting a delightful crunch.
Assembling the Cake
- Frost the first layer. Once the cakes are fully cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of butter pecan frosting over the top.
- Add the second layer. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the frosting over the entire cake, including the sides.
- Garnish with extra pecans. For added texture and decoration, sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Pecan Cake is the perfect blend of buttery richness and nutty goodness. The toasted pecans elevate the cake’s flavor, and the creamy frosting adds the perfect finishing touch. This cake is sure to impress your guests and become a favorite for any special occasion. Enjoy!