Butter Pecan Cake

Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of rich, nutty flavors combined with moist, soft cake. This cake is perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth. Its unique buttery aroma and crunchy pecans make it stand out among other treats, ensuring it will be a hit at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Decadent Flavor: The combination of brown butter and finely chopped pecans creates a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this delightful cake.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Great for birthdays, holidays, or just an afternoon treat with coffee or tea.
• Impressive Presentation: Layered with cream cheese frosting and topped with pecans, this cake looks as good as it tastes.
• Leftovers Last Long: If there are any slices left, they stay moist and flavorful for days!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Butter Pecan Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 3 (8-inch) round baking pans
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Hand mixer or stand mixer
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without spills.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: Provides even mixing power to ensure your batter is light and fluffy.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate every bit of batter.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
• 3 cups (333g) cake flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups (354ml) buttermilk, room temperature preferred
• 2 large eggs, room temperature preferred
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (160g) pecan halves, very finely chopped

For the Frosting

• 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
• 6 oz cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup (66g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 4 ½ cups (562g) powdered sugar
• 1 Tablespoon heavy cream
• ⅓ cup (35g) pecan halves, very finely chopped, optional

How to Make Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Melt the butter over medium-low heat. Once melted, increase the heat slightly and cook until golden brown specks form. This adds a deep flavor to your cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round baking pans with parchment paper.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
Cake flour
Granulated sugar
Light brown sugar
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the browned butter to the dry ingredients. Mix until thoroughly incorporated. In a separate bowl, whisk together:
Buttermilk
Eggs
Vanilla extract

Gradually add this wet mixture to the dry ingredients while mixing until just combined. Stir in the finely chopped pecans gently.

Step 5: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cakes to cool completely in their pans.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together:
Softened butter
Cream cheese
Light brown sugar
Vanilla extract
Salt

Beat until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream while beating until fluffy.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake

If necessary, level each cake layer. Stack them with icing in between each layer. Frost the outside of the cake generously. Decorate with additional chopped pecans and piped frosting swirls if desired.

Now you have a stunning Butter Pecan Cake that is sure to impress!

How to Serve Butter Pecan Cake

Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging at home, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your cake experience.

With Fresh Whipped Cream

• A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, enhancing the flavors of the cake.

Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream

• Serving slices of Butter Pecan Cake with vanilla ice cream creates a perfect balance of warm and cold, making each bite memorable.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce over the top adds an extra layer of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.

Garnish with Toasted Pecans

• Sprinkling toasted pecans on top not only enhances the visual appeal but also intensifies the nutty flavor of the cake.

Serve as Layered Dessert

• Cut the cake into layers and serve with alternating layers of whipped cream and fruit for an elegant twist.

Add Fresh Fruit Slices

• Accompanying your slice with fresh fruit, such as berries or sliced bananas, adds freshness and complements the rich flavors.

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How to Perfect Butter Pecan Cake

To ensure your Butter Pecan Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these essential tips for baking success.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Brown Your Butter Carefully: Watch your butter closely while browning; it should have a nutty aroma and golden color without burning.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Cool Cakes Completely: Allow your cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and sliding of the icing.
• Level Your Layers: If necessary, trim the tops of your cakes for even layering. This helps in stacking them neatly.
• Store Properly: Keep any leftover cake covered at room temperature or refrigerated to maintain freshness for longer.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Cake

Pairing side dishes with Butter Pecan Cake can enhance its rich flavors. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spiced Apple Compote: A warm apple compote adds a hint of spice that complements the nuttiness of the cake beautifully.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring out the natural sweetness in the cake while providing a savory contrast.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: Light, fluffy doughnuts dusted in cinnamon sugar make for a fun and sweet side.
4. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The creamy texture of mashed potatoes offers a comforting side that balances out richness in desserts.
5. Carrot Salad: A refreshing carrot salad with citrus dressing provides brightness and crunch that pairs well with dessert.
6. Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh seasonal fruits adds vibrancy and freshness alongside the rich Butter Pecan Cake.
7. Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses can create a sophisticated pairing that contrasts nicely with sweet flavors.
8. Chocolate Fondue: For those who love chocolate, dipping pieces from the cake into warm chocolate fondue offers an indulgent experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a Butter Pecan Cake can be easy, but there are common mistakes that may ruin the final product. Here are some to watch out for:

• Skipping room temperature ingredients: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can affect the cake’s texture. Always ensure these ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
• Overmixing the batter: This could lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined to maintain a light and fluffy texture.
• Not measuring flour correctly: Too much flour can make your cake dry. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurement.
• Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Check your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to avoid overbaking.
• Neglecting to cool layers properly: Frosting a warm cake can cause it to collapse. Allow all layers to cool completely before assembling.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Butter Pecan Cake

• Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Butter Pecan Cake

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the cake with foil and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Butter Pecan Cake.

Can I make Butter Pecan Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake layers ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer. Just frost it on the day you plan to serve.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can substitute buttermilk with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

How do I know when my Butter Pecan Cake is done?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! You can use walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Pecan Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for celebrations or as an everyday treat. Feel free to customize it with various nuts or even add chocolate chips for an extra twist. Give this recipe a try; you’re sure to impress your family and friends!