Butter Pecan Cake

Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly combines rich flavors and a moist texture. This cake stands out with its buttery depth, crunchy pecans, and creamy frosting, making it ideal for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply to enjoy at home. Whether you’re sharing it at a birthday party or serving it after dinner, this Butter Pecan Cake will impress everyone with its taste and presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and toasted pecans creates a taste that’s both indulgent and comforting.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to the buttermilk, each slice of cake remains incredibly moist and delicious.
• Versatile Occasion: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or afternoon tea—this cake fits any gathering.
• Easy to Make: Even novice bakers can follow the simple steps to create this stunning dessert.
• Customizable Frosting: Use the creamy frosting as a base and add your favorite toppings for an extra touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into baking your Butter Pecan Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 8-inch round baking pans
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without spilling.
• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort while achieving a light and fluffy frosting.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl to ensure thorough mixing.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For this delicious Butter Pecan Cake, you will need the following 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 unsalted butter over medium-low heat in a saucepan. Once melted, increase the heat slightly until golden brown specks form. Remove from heat and let cool.

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.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. Cake flour
2. Granulated sugar
3. Light brown sugar
4. Baking powder
5. Baking soda
6. Salt

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together:
1. Buttermilk
2. Eggs
3. Vanilla extract

Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients along with the cooled browned butter. Mix until just combined. Stir in finely chopped pecans.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake in preheated oven for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely on wire racks.

Step 6: Prepare the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
1. Softened unsalted butter
2. Cream cheese
3. Light brown sugar
4. Vanilla extract
5. Salt

Gradually add powdered sugar while beating until fluffy; then mix in heavy cream.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

If needed, level each cake layer with a serrated knife. Stack layers with frosting between them and frost the outside of the cake as desired. Decorate with additional chopped pecans if you wish!

How to Serve Butter Pecan Cake

Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual dessert, serving it with the right accompaniments enhances its flavors and textures.

Classic Pairings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy element.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for a sweet finish.
• Ice Cream: Serve with vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for an indulgent combination.

Festive Touches

• Toasted Pecans: Garnish with additional toasted pecans for extra crunch and flavor.
• Fresh Berries: A side of mixed berries provides freshness that balances the richness of the cake.
• Chocolate Shavings: Add dark chocolate shavings for an elegant and rich contrast.

Creative Twists

• Coffee or Tea: Pair slices with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea to enhance the dessert experience.
• Fruit Compote: Serve with a homemade fruit compote for a tangy complement to the sweetness.

How to Perfect Butter Pecan Cake

Achieving the perfect Butter Pecan Cake requires attention to detail and some helpful tips. Follow these guidelines to ensure your cake turns out delicious every time.

• Boldly Browned Butter: Take your time when browning butter; it should have a nutty aroma and golden color for best flavor.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and buttermilk helps create an even batter, leading to better texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding wet and dry ingredients; overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
• Use Quality Pecans: Fresh, high-quality pecans will enhance the overall taste of your cake significantly.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow cakes to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of icing.
• Level Your Cakes: If necessary, trim the tops of cakes for even stacking, ensuring a professional-looking finish.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Cake

Adding side dishes can elevate your Butter Pecan Cake experience. Here are some great options to serve alongside this delightful dessert.

1. Bold Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream complements the nutty flavors perfectly.
2. Bright Mixed Berry Salad: A refreshing salad with strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offers a fruity contrast.
3. Rich Chocolate Mousse: The creamy texture of chocolate mousse pairs well with the cake’s richness.
4. Savory Cheese Platter: A platter with assorted cheeses balances sweetness with savory elements.
5. Nutty Granola Parfait: Layer granola with yogurt and fresh fruit for a crunchy side that harmonizes well.
6. Spiced Chai Tea: The warmth of spiced chai tea enhances the flavors while providing a comforting beverage option.
7. Coconut Whipped Topping: For a dairy-free option, coconut whipped topping offers creamy sweetness without overpowering the cake.
8. Zesty Lemon Sorbet: Light lemon sorbet acts as a palate cleanser between bites of rich cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Butter Pecan Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Improperly measuring ingredients: Always use the correct measuring cups and spoons. Too much or too little can ruin your cake’s texture.
• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better rise.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than a light, fluffy one.
• Not cooling the cakes properly: Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting. This prevents melting and ensures even layering.
• Using stale nuts: Make sure your pecans are fresh for optimal flavor. Stale nuts can detract from the overall taste of your Butter Pecan Cake.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Butter Pecan Cake

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Butter Pecan Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place cake on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds. Check to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Butter Pecan Cake?

Butter Pecan Cake is a rich dessert made with butter, finely chopped pecans, and layered with creamy frosting. It’s perfect for celebrations or just because!

How do I make my Butter Pecan Cake moist?

Using room temperature buttermilk and not overmixing your batter helps achieve a moist texture in your Butter Pecan Cake.

Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can use almond milk instead of buttermilk or different types of nuts if you prefer variations on the classic Butter Pecan Cake.

How do I decorate my Butter Pecan Cake?

You can decorate with additional chopped pecans, frosting swirls, or even caramel drizzle for an extra touch of sweetness.

How long does it take to bake the cake?

Bake your Butter Pecan Cake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Pecan Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different nuts or frostings according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its rich flavors at any occasion!