Butter Pecan Cake

Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of butter and pecans into a moist, scrumptious cake. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering, this cake stands out with its nutty flavor and creamy frosting. It’s an easy recipe that yields impressive results, making it a must-try for both novice and experienced bakers.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of browned butter and finely chopped pecans creates a unique taste that pleases every palate.
• Versatile Occasion Fit: Whether it’s a family gathering or a special celebration, this cake fits right in.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve great results with this Butter Pecan Cake.
• Decadent Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious touch that complements the cake perfectly.
• Beautiful Presentation: Decorate it with additional pecans for an eye-catching dessert that looks as good as it tastes.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into this Butter Pecan Cake recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 3 (8-inch) round baking pans
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without mess.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing batter and frosting to achieve fluffiness.
• Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly without becoming soggy.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
• 3 cups (333g) cake flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups (354ml) buttermilk, room temperature preferred
• 2 large eggs, room temperature preferred
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (160g) pecan halves, very finely chopped

For the Frosting

• 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup (66g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 ½ cups (562g) powdered sugar
• 1 Tablespoon heavy cream
• ⅓ cup (35g) pecan halves, very finely chopped, optional

How to Make Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Melt the Butter

Melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, increase the heat slightly and cook until you see golden brown specks form in the butter. This step enhances the flavor of your cake.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round baking pans with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
cake flour
granulated sugar
light brown sugar
baking powder
baking soda
salt

Make sure everything is well combined before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the browned butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until incorporated. In another bowl, whisk together:
buttermilk
eggs
vanilla extract

Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients while mixing gently until just combined. Stir in the finely chopped pecans.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among your prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let them cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 6: Prepare Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
softened butter
softened cream cheese
light brown sugar
vanilla extract
salt

Beat until smooth. Gradually add in powdered sugar and heavy cream while mixing until fluffy.

Step 7: Assemble Your Cake

If necessary, level cakes so they stack evenly. Place one layer on your serving plate and spread frosting between each layer. Frost around the outside of the cake as well. For decoration, sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top or pipe frosting swirls if desired.

Enjoy your delicious Butter Pecan Cake!

How to Serve Butter Pecan Cake

Serving Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful experience that enhances its rich flavors. Whether for a special occasion or a casual gathering, here are some creative ways to serve this delicious cake.

Classic Slice

• Serve a classic slice of Butter Pecan Cake on a decorative plate with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.

Ice Cream Pairing

• A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream complements the buttery flavors and adds a creamy texture to each bite.

Coffee Companion

• Pair your slice with a hot cup of coffee or espresso. The strong flavor balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Fruit Garnish

• Add fresh fruit such as berries or sliced bananas on the side. The acidity from the fruit cuts through the richness of the cake.

Festive Decoration

• Top individual slices with additional chopped pecans or edible flowers for an elegant touch that impresses guests.

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How to Perfect Butter Pecan Cake

To ensure your Butter Pecan Cake turns out perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even baking.
• Brown your butter carefully: Watch closely while browning butter to avoid burning, as this adds depth to the flavor.
• Measure flour accurately: Use the scoop and level method for measuring flour to prevent a dense cake.
• Do not overmix: Mix until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture in your cake layers.
• Cool cakes completely: Allow cakes to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting the icing.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different frostings or nuts based on your preferences for variety in flavor and presentation.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Cake

When serving Butter Pecan Cake, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Chocolate Mousse: The rich and creamy texture enhances the nutty flavors of the cake beautifully.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each slice provides an extra layer of sweetness that pairs well with pecans.
4. Cheese Platter: Offer assorted cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a savory contrast that highlights the cake’s flavors.
5. Nutty Granola: Serve alongside granola topped with yogurt for a delightful breakfast twist on dessert.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts can provide crunch and enhance the nutty profile of Butter Pecan Cake.
7. Herbal Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea can be refreshing after indulging in sweet treats, offering a gentle finish.
8. Lemon Sorbet: The tartness from lemon sorbet refreshes the palate and complements the buttery richness of the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Butter Pecan Cake, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Ignoring room temperature ingredients – Using cold eggs or buttermilk can lead to a dense cake. Always let your ingredients come to room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly – Too much flour can dry out the cake. Use the spoon-and-level method to ensure accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling step – Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and run. Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting.
• Neglecting to toast pecans – This enhances their flavor significantly. Toast them lightly before adding to the batter for a richer taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Butter Pecan Cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Butter Pecan Cake

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Butter Pecan Cake

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds, watching closely.
• Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covered, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Butter Pecan Cake?

Butter Pecan Cake is a rich dessert made with butter, brown sugar, and finely chopped pecans, known for its moist texture and nutty flavor.

Can I use different nuts in Butter Pecan Cake?

Yes! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute walnuts or almonds for a different taste.

How do I make Butter Pecan Cake gluten-free?

You can replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free cake flour blend. Ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I make Butter Pecan Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the layers ahead and freeze them. Just frost when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Butter Pecan Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different nuts or add chocolate chips for an extra treat. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the cozy flavors that make it perfect for any occasion!

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Butter Pecan Cake

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• Author: Grace
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x

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Description

Indulge in the heavenly flavors of Butter Pecan Cake, a moist and decadent dessert that perfectly balances rich butter notes with the crunch of finely chopped pecans. Ideal for any occasion—from birthdays to holiday gatherings—this cake features a luscious cream cheese frosting that enhances its delightful texture. With easy-to-follow steps, even novice bakers can achieve impressive results, making this recipe a must-try for anyone looking to impress their guests or treat their family. Serve it alongside your favorite ice cream or coffee for a delicious experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
• 3 cups (333g) cake flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups (354ml) buttermilk, room temperature preferred
• 2 large eggs, room temperature preferred
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (160g) pecan halves, very finely chopped
• 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup (66g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 ½ cups (562g) powdered sugar
• 1 Tablespoon heavy cream
• ⅓ cup (35g) pecan halves, very finely chopped, optional

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round baking pans.
2. Brown the butter over medium heat until golden specks form, then set aside.
3. In one bowl, whisk together cake flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Combine with browned butter and dry ingredients until just mixed; then fold in pecans.
5. Divide batter into pans and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool on wire racks.
6. For frosting, beat together softened butter, cream cheese, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream.
7. Assemble the cake by layering frosting between cooled cake layers and around the exterior.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 35g
• Sodium: 290mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Cholesterol: 85mg