Why You’ll Love this Butter Pecan Cake Recipe
When you take a bite of this Butter Pecan Cake, you’ll instantly taste the warmth and richness that makes it special.
The combination of buttery flavor and toasted pecans creates a delightful crunch in every mouthful.
I love how each slice feels comforting, like a warm hug on a chilly day.
It’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just a cozy night in.
Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours.
Trust me, once you try this cake, you’ll want to share it with everyone—and keep a slice just for yourself!
Ingredients of Butter Pecan Cake
When it comes to baking a Butter Pecan Cake, the ingredients are as important as the love you pour into it. You want to make sure you have everything on hand before you plunge into the mixing and measuring. Trust me, nothing is more frustrating than realizing you’re out of eggs halfway through the process.
So, let’s gather what you need for this delightful cake, which is as comforting as a warm blanket on a chilly evening.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 tablespoons butter (for greasing the pan)
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (1 cup for the cake and another cup for the frosting)
- 2/3 cup butter, softened (for the cake)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 tablespoons butter, softened (for the frosting)
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 3 tablespoons milk (for the frosting)
- 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the frosting)
- Pecans, toasted (for topping the cake)
Now that you have your shopping list, let’s talk about those ingredients for a sec. You might find yourself wondering why you need two kinds of vanilla extract—one for the cake and one for the frosting.
Well, they each play a role in balancing the flavors and giving that rich, buttery taste we all crave. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider toasting the pecans for an extra crunch.
It’s a small step that makes a big difference. So, get ready to create a cake that’s not only delicious but also a true crowd-pleaser. Who knew baking could be this much fun?
How to Make Butter Pecan Cake
Making a Butter Pecan Cake is like starting a delicious adventure in your kitchen. First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350 degrees. While it warms up, grab your 13x9x2 inch baking pan, and melt 3 tablespoons of butter right in it. Yes, right in the pan. This is where the magic begins, so don’t be shy—let that butter get all melty and inviting.
Once it’s melted, stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans and then pop the pan in the oven for about 10 minutes. This toasting step is essential; it brings out the nutty flavor that makes this cake so special. After that, let those pecans cool while you move on to the cake batter.
Now, in a large mixing bowl, cream together 2/3 cup of softened butter and 1 cup of sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This is where you want to channel your inner baker and really beat that mixture—it’s the foundation of your cake’s texture.
Once that’s done, add in 2 eggs, one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. It’s like nurturing the cake, giving it a little love with every stir. Next, mix together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt in another bowl.
Then, alternately add this dry mixture and 2/3 cup of milk to your creamed butter and sugar, starting and ending with the flour. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and the cooled pecans you toasted earlier—your batter should be rich and full of those crunchy bits.
Pour that beautiful batter into two greased and floured 9-inch cake pans, and let them bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely. Now, while those layers are cooling, it’s time to whip up the Butter Pecan Frosting.
In a separate bowl, cream together 3 tablespoons of softened butter, then gradually add 3 cups of confectioners’ sugar, 3 tablespoons of milk, and 3/4 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix it all until it’s light and fluffy, and finally, stir in the reserved toasted pecans.
When the cakes are completely cooled, spread that heavenly frosting on top and around the sides of your cake. Trust me, this cake is going to be a crowd-pleaser, and who doesn’t love a slice of buttery goodness with a pecan crunch?
Enjoy your culinary masterpiece, and remember, it’s okay if it’s not perfect—what matters is the love you put into it.
Butter Pecan Cake Substitutions & Variations
Substituting ingredients in a Butter Pecan Cake can open up a world of flavors and make it your own.
For a gluten-free option, I use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour. If you want a dairy-free cake, replace the butter with coconut oil and use almond milk.
To enhance the flavor, try adding a splash of maple syrup in place of some sugar. You can also mix in different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts for a unique twist.
Finally, for a chocolatey variation, consider adding cocoa powder to the batter. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!
What to Serve with Butter Pecan Cake
What pairs perfectly with a rich and moist Butter Pecan Cake? I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy sweetness complements the cake’s buttery flavor beautifully.
For a little extra flair, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top or alongside the slice. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of whipped cream adds a light touch that balances the richness.
For drinks, a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a sweet tea works wonders, enhancing the cake’s nutty notes. Trust me, these pairings will elevate your Butter Pecan Cake experience to a whole new level!
Additional Tips & Notes
While baking your Butter Pecan Cake, keep a few tips in mind to guarantee the best results.
First, make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming. Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor, so don’t skip that step!
I recommend checking your cakes a few minutes before the end of baking time to avoid overbaking. If you want a richer frosting, feel free to double the frosting recipe.
Finally, let the cake cool completely before frosting; this prevents melting.
Enjoy the process, and trust me, your Butter Pecan Cake will impress everyone!