Butter Pecan Cake Recipe: A Rich and Nutty Delight

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to satisfy both your sweet tooth and love for nuts, the Butter Pecan Cake is exactly what you need! This cake features a moist and fluffy texture paired with the richness of toasted pecans, making it ideal for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just treating yourself to something special.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of creating this delicious cake from scratch. With our pro tips, you’ll bake a butter pecan cake that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Introduction
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Pro Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Cake
Nutritional Information
FAQ
Conclusion

Ingredients

Before you get started, make sure to gather the following ingredients. Using high-quality ingredients is the key to achieving a rich flavor in your Butter Pecan Cake.

For the Cake:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
4 large eggs
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 cup whole milk
1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)

For the Butter Pecan Topping:

½ cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
¼ cup heavy cream
1 cup chopped pecans

For the Frosting (optional):

1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
½ cup powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for 5-7 minutes or until they become golden and aromatic.
Remove the pecans from the oven and allow them to cool while preparing the cake batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined to avoid overbeating the batter.
Gently fold in the toasted pecans.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter into a greased and floured 9×13-inch baking pan.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan.

Step 4: Prepare the Butter Pecan Topping

While the cake is cooling, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth and thickened.
Stir in the chopped pecans and allow the mixture to cool slightly before spreading it over the cooled cake.

Step 5: Make the Frosting (Optional)

For an extra touch, you can top the cake with whipped cream frosting.
Beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract together until soft peaks form.
Spread the whipped cream over the cake before adding the butter pecan topping, or serve it on the side as a garnish.

Pro Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Cake

1. Toast Your Pecans: Toasting pecans intensifies their flavor, adding a delightful crunch to the cake. Keep an eye on them while they bake to prevent burning.

2. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother, more even cake batter. This prevents the batter from curdling and results in a lighter cake.

3. Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Once you’ve added the flour, mix only until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake instead of the desired light and fluffy texture.

4. Brown Sugar for Depth: Using brown sugar in the butter pecan topping adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.

5. Let the Cake Cool Completely: If you frost the cake while it’s still warm, the frosting may melt. Make sure to allow the cake to cool entirely before adding the butter pecan topping or frosting.

Nutritional Information

While this Butter Pecan Cake is incredibly delicious, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):

Calories: 450 kcal
Total Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 110mg
Sodium: 230mg
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugars: 30g
Protein: 5g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day or two in advance. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

2. How long can I store Butter Pecan Cake?

Butter Pecan Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze Butter Pecan Cake for up to 3 months. Wrap the cake (without the frosting) tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

4. Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Yes, if you’re not a fan of pecans or have a nut allergy, you can substitute them with walnuts, almonds, or even omit them entirely for a simpler butter cake.

5. How can I make this cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum. You can also use almond flour as an alternative for a nuttier flavor.

Conclusion

This Butter Pecan Cake is a dessert that will win over any crowd. The combination of moist cake, buttery pecans, and a rich topping makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family event or just indulging in some delicious comfort food, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

With these easy-to-follow instructions and expert tips, you’ll have a cake that looks and tastes like it came straight from a bakery. Don’t forget to share your baking experience with us by leaving a comment or sharing your creation on social media!

Happy baking!

Butter Pecan Cake