Butter Pecan Cake with Frosting: A Rich, Indulgent Treat
This Butter Pecan Cake is a celebration of buttery richness and nutty flavor, ideal for special occasions or a sweet weekend indulgence. Here’s a complete guide to baking and frosting this delightful dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped (toasted)
For the Butter Pecan Frosting
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped (toasted)
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
For the Cake
- Toast the Pecans
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let them cool.
- Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy (3–5 minutes).
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Mix Dry Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
- Alternate adding the dry mixture and milk to the creamed butter mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the Pecans
- Fold in the toasted pecans gently.
- Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
For the Frosting
- Make the Frosting
- Beat the butter until creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing after each addition.
- Add milk and vanilla extract and beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Fold in the toasted pecans and a pinch of salt.
- Frost the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving platter and spread a layer of frosting over it.
- Add the second layer and frost the top and sides.
- Garnish with extra toasted pecans if desired.
Tips and Tricks
- Prevent Pecans from Burning
- Stir frequently while toasting and watch closely, as they can burn quickly.
- Moist Cake Tip
- Use buttermilk instead of regular milk for an even more tender texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients
- Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for a smoother batter and better rise.
- Make Ahead
- Toast the pecans and prepare the frosting in advance to save time.
- Storage
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought toasted pecans?
Yes, but freshly toasted pecans will have a more robust flavor.
2. What if I don’t have two cake pans?
You can bake the batter in one pan and slice it into layers once it’s cooled. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
3. Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking mix.
4. What’s the best way to slice the cake cleanly?
Use a serrated knife and wipe it clean between slices for the best results.
5. Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, wrap unfrosted layers tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Frost after thawing.
This Butter Pecan Cake is a true crowd-pleaser, offering buttery richness and nutty crunch in every bite. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or just a decadent treat!