Butter Pecan Cake

Indulge in the rich flavors of this Butter Pecan Cake, a delightful dessert that combines buttery goodness with crunchy pecans and a creamy frosting. Perfect for special occasions, this cake is sure to impress friends and family. With its moist texture and sweet flavor, it’s an excellent choice for birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy treat at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Butter Pecan Cake comes together quickly with simple steps that anyone can follow.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of butter, sugar, and toasted pecans creates a rich taste that delights the palate.
• Versatile Dessert: Whether it’s a birthday party or a holiday gathering, this cake fits right into any celebration.
• Impressive Presentation: Layered with cream cheese frosting and garnished with pecans, it looks as good as it tastes.
• Perfect for Sharing: With 16 servings in one recipe, it’s an ideal dessert for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather these essential tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 9-inch round cake pans
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when mixing ingredients to achieve a fluffy batter.
• Rubber spatula: Ensures you scrape every bit of batter from the bowl, minimizing waste.
• Cooling rack: Allows cakes to cool evenly, preventing sogginess on the bottom.

Ingredients

To create this delicious Butter Pecan Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Cake

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons dark vanilla extract (alcohol-free) (optional)
• 3 cups (360 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans, toasted

For the Frosting

• 1 cup (226 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For the Topping

• 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons (85 g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces
• ½ cup (120 ml) whipping cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

How to Make Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in both vanilla extracts.

In another bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients while alternating with whole milk until fully combined.

Step 3: Add Pecans and Bake

Fold in the chopped pecans gently into the batter. Pour equal amounts of batter into prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool Cakes

Let the cakes cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 5: Prepare Frosting

While cakes cool:
1. Beat together softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until creamy.
3. Stir in vanilla extract.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

Once cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top before placing the second layer over it. Frost the top and sides of the cake.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish your Butter Pecan Cake with extra toasted pecans if desired. Slice and enjoy!

How to Serve Butter Pecan Cake

Serving Butter Pecan Cake is an opportunity to impress your guests while enjoying a slice of this delightful dessert. Here are some creative serving suggestions that elevate the experience.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Berries: Serve with a mix of fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries for a tart contrast to the sweetness.
• Sliced Apples: Crisp apple slices add a refreshing crunch that complements the cake’s richness.

Add Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over a warm slice, creating a delicious combination.
• Caramel Swirl Ice Cream: This adds an extra layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the pecans.

Drizzle with Sauce

• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice enhances the buttery flavors.
• Chocolate Sauce: A light drizzle can add richness and decadence to your serving.

Top with Whipped Cream

• Homemade Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a fluffy texture that balances the dense cake.
• Coconut Whipped Cream: For a tropical twist, use coconut whipped cream for added flavor.

How to Perfect Butter Pecan Cake

To ensure your Butter Pecan Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Toast Your Pecans: To enhance their flavor, toast pecans lightly before adding them to the batter.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture in your cake.
• Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done baking.
• Let It Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool fully before frosting to prevent melting the cream cheese frosting.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Cake

Pairing savory dishes with Butter Pecan Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delightful options:

1. Mango Salad: A fresh mango salad adds sweetness and brightness that balances the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide earthy flavors that complement dessert nicely without overwhelming it.
3. Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast in texture and taste, enhancing your dining experience.
4. Potato Salad: A light potato salad can serve as a hearty side dish while keeping things casual and comforting.
5. Grilled Chicken Skewers: These add a savory protein option that pairs well with sweet desserts like Butter Pecan Cake.
6. Quinoa Salad: A nutty quinoa salad infused with herbs can provide an excellent balance to this sweet treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking a Butter Pecan Cake can be delightful, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure it turns out perfectly. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using cold ingredients: Always use room temperature butter and eggs. Cold ingredients can lead to a dense cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can result in a tough texture instead of a light and fluffy cake.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid adding too much flour, which can make the cake dry.
• Skipping the toasting step: Toast your pecans before adding them. This enhances their flavor and adds depth to your cake.
• Neglecting oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated properly. An incorrect temperature can affect baking time and cake consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the Butter Pecan Cake in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Butter Pecan Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Butter Pecan Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the slice on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking often to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat until warmed through, about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making Butter Pecan Cake:

How do I achieve the best texture for Butter Pecan Cake?

To achieve a light texture, ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create an airy batter.

Can I make Butter Pecan Cake without nuts?

Yes! You can omit pecans or replace them with chocolate chips or dried fruits for variations in flavor.

What can I use as a substitute for cream cheese frosting?

You can use whipped coconut cream or a simple vanilla buttercream as alternatives that pair well with this cake.

How long does Butter Pecan Cake last?

When stored correctly, the cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator and about 3 months if frozen.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Pecan Cake is not only rich and delicious but also versatile. Perfect for special occasions or everyday treats, you can customize it with different frostings or add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruits. Enjoy making this delightful dessert!