Are you ready to dive into a world of flavor? Butter Pecan Cake is easy to make and utterly delicious. With its rich buttery taste and crunchy pecans, it’s sure to wow your friends and family. In this post, I’ll share a simple, step-by-step recipe that anyone can follow. Let’s get started and whip up this irresistible treat together!
Ingredients
Detailed Ingredients List
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar (for topping)
– 1/4 cup additional chopped pecans (for topping)
To create the perfect Butter Pecan Cake, you need quality ingredients. Start with unsalted butter. It gives you control over the salt level. Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps the cake rise.
Eggs are key for binding. They add moisture and richness. Use large eggs for the best results. All-purpose flour gives structure. Be sure to sift it to avoid lumps. Baking powder helps the cake rise.
Vanilla extract adds a warm flavor. Buttermilk brings moisture and a slight tang. Toasted pecans give that classic butter pecan taste. Chop them roughly for texture.
For the topping, packed brown sugar and extra chopped pecans add a sweet crunch. This layer makes the cake extra special. You can find the full recipe above for all the steps. Each ingredient plays a role in making this cake delicious.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating and Preparing the Pans
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Prepare three 9-inch round cake pans. Grease each pan with butter and dust with flour. This will help the cakes come out easily.
Mixing the Batter
– In a large bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes. The mix should be light and fluffy.
– Add 4 large eggs, one at a time. Blend each egg well before adding the next. Stir in 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until mixed in.
– In another bowl, whisk together 3 cups of sifted all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. This ensures even mixing of the dry ingredients.
– Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the butter mix. Alternate with 1 cup of buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mix. Be careful not to overmix; stop when just combined.
Baking Process
– Fold in 1 cup of toasted and roughly chopped pecans until they are evenly spread in the batter.
– Divide the batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Place them in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You can check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
– After baking, take the cakes out and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, move them to a wire cooling rack to cool completely.
For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions above.
Tips & Tricks
Baking Tips
– Avoid overmixing to ensure a fluffy texture.
– Check doneness with a toothpick.
When you mix your batter, stop as soon as it’s combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. Insert it into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready.
Decorating Tips
– Use a cake stand for presentation.
– Ideas for toppings.
To make your cake look great, place it on a cake stand. This adds height and makes it stand out. For toppings, try toasted pecans or a drizzle of caramel. These add flavor and make your cake look fancy.
Serving Suggestions
– Pairing with beverages or sides.
– Ideal occasions for serving.
Butter pecan cake pairs well with coffee or tea. The nutty flavors blend nicely with these drinks. This cake is perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or holiday dinners. It brings joy to any occasion when served fresh and warm.
For a full recipe, check the Full Recipe section above.
Variations
Flavor Twists
You can easily add fun flavors to your butter pecan cake. Try mixing in chocolate chips for a rich chocolate pecan cake. This twist gives a nice balance of sweet and nutty. You can also swap out pecans for other nuts, like walnuts or almonds. Each nut adds a unique flavor and crunch. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite.
Dietary Alternatives
If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend. This works well in most cake recipes. For those who want a vegan cake, replace the eggs with flax eggs or applesauce. You can also use plant-based butter instead of regular butter. These changes keep the cake tasty while meeting dietary needs.
Frosting Options
Frosting can change the whole feel of your cake. A rich cream cheese frosting pairs well with the nutty flavor. It adds a tangy taste that complements the cake perfectly. If you prefer something simpler, try a light glaze or caramel sauce. Drizzle it over the top for added sweetness. Both options make your cake even more delicious and appealing.
For a full recipe, check out the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake .
Storage Info
How to Store
To keep your butter pecan cake fresh, use an airtight container. This helps keep moisture in and air out. You can also wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap. This will prevent it from drying out. For best results, store it at room temperature. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or heat.
Freezing the Cake
Yes, you can freeze butter pecan cake! To do this, allow the cake to cool completely. Then, wrap each layer in plastic wrap. After that, place the wrapped layers in a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to three months. When you want to enjoy it, take it out the night before. Let it thaw in the fridge overnight. You can reheat it in the oven if desired.
Shelf Life
At room temperature, the cake lasts about three days. If you store it in the fridge, it can last up to a week. Just remember to keep it covered to maintain its flavor and texture. For the best taste, enjoy it fresh! You can find the Full Recipe to help you create this delicious cake.
FAQs
What is Butter Pecan Cake?
Butter pecan cake is a rich, moist dessert. It combines buttery cake with toasted pecans. The nuts add crunch and flavor, making each bite special. This cake is often topped with a sweet pecan mixture. It is perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings.
Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
You can use salted butter in this recipe. Salted butter may add more flavor to the cake. However, it can also change the cake’s sweetness. If you choose salted butter, reduce the salt in the recipe. This helps keep the balance in taste.
How long to bake cake layers?
The ideal baking time for cake layers depends on pan size. For three 9-inch round pans, bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready. For smaller or larger pans, adjust the time as needed.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own. Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. This gives you a good substitute that works well in the cake.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake ahead of time. Allow the layers to cool completely. Once cooled, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can frost and decorate the cake later. This makes it easy for special events.
You learned how to make a delicious butter pecan cake from start to finish. We covered the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for baking and decorating, and ideas for variations. Remember, this cake is great for any celebration or a sweet treat. Don’t forget to store it well to keep it fresh. Enjoy making this cake with your own twists and flavors. Happy baking!
