Butter Pecan Cake

If you’re looking for a cake that hits all the right notes, then look no further than butter pecan cake! This sumptuous dessert combines the rich, buttery flavor of golden cake with the crunch of roasted pecans, creating a flavor profile that’s both indulgent and comforting at the same time. Did you know that butter pecan ice cream has been a beloved flavor since the 1920s? Imagine that flavor, transformed into a cake—it’s like a warm hug in dessert form!

What makes this cake particularly special is its simplicity. It’s quick to whip up, and it’s perfect for gatherings, making it an excellent choice for family-friendly baking days. With its moist texture and rich nutty flavor, it’s sure to impress both your family and guests, much like my favorite banana bread recipe. So grab your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into this delicious butter pecan cake that’s bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire!

What is Butter Pecan Cake?

You might be scratching your head wondering, “Why butter pecan?” Well, let’s just say that if you have a sweet tooth, this cake is for you! It’s labeled butter pecan because of the delightful marriage between tablespoons of rich butter and the crunchy, toasty pecans that are folded right into the batter. It’s like that classic saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and trust me, this cake will win hearts and taste buds alike! So why not give it a whirl? You might just discover your new favorite dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Cake

Butter pecan cake is all about three things: flavor, ease, and celebration of simple ingredients. First, the highlight is undeniably the roasted pecans mixed into the moist cake, which adds that delightful crunch and depth of flavor. Secondly, making this cake at home is cost-effective compared to buying similar desserts at bakeries. Plus, there’s just something special about homemade goodies that shop-bought treats can’t offer. Lastly, you can elevate this cake with simple toppings like whipped cream, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce to really make it shine. It’s very much akin to a classic chocolate cake, but with a nutty twist that you just can’t resist. So, let’s get baking!

How to Make Butter Pecan Cake

Quick Overview

Making a butter pecan cake is easier than you might think! It’s a simple process that takes around 30 minutes of prep time and about 50 minutes in the oven, making it a wonderful choice for both novice and seasoned bakers. This cake promises a moist, rich texture balanced perfectly with the lovely crunch of toasted pecans.

Key Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cake

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and set aside.
2. Toast the Pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for about 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally. Remove and let cool.
3. Make the Batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined and fold in the toasted pecans.
7. Bake: Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
9. Frost (optional): Once cooled, you can frost the cake with your favorite icing, such as cream cheese frosting, or simply serve it as is!

What to Serve Butter Pecan Cake With

This butter pecan cake is delightful on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate your dessert experience, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of whipped cream. A warm cup of coffee or tea is also a fantastic companion to complement the flavors of the cake. For a more textured experience, serve it alongside some fresh fruit like berries for a refreshing finish!

Top Tips for Perfecting Butter Pecan Cake

• Pecan Toasting: Be sure to toast your pecans! It enhances their flavor, adding a richer depth to your cake.
• Egg Temperature: Use eggs at room temperature; this helps the batter emulsify better, resulting in a lighter cake.
• Measuring Flour: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour to avoid a dense cake; too much flour can make the texture heavy.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix until the ingredients are just incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

To store your butter pecan cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week if frosted. If you need longer storage, you can freeze the cake! Slice it and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature.

With its delightful flavor and easy preparation, butter pecan cake is truly a crowd-pleaser. Get in the kitchen and try this recipe today; you won’t be disappointed!

Butter Pecan Cake

A moist and rich cake combined with roasted pecans, offering a delightful crunch and buttery flavor, perfect for gatherings and family-friendly baking days.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Servings: 12 slices

Course: Cake, Dessert

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cake Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Use at room temperature
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs At room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups all-purpose flour Measured using the spoon-and-level method
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted Toast in a dry skillet for enhanced flavor

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and set aside.
2. In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for about 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally. Remove and let cool.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined and fold in the toasted pecans.

Baking

1. Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.

Frosting (Optional)

1. Once cooled, you can frost the cake with your favorite icing, such as cream cheese frosting, or simply serve it as is!

Notes

For best results, use room temperature eggs and avoid overmixing the batter. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or 1 week in the refrigerator if frosted. Freeze for longer storage.