Butter Pecan Cake

Introduction to Butter Pecan Cake

When it comes to desserts that delight, butter pecan cake holds a special place in many hearts. This classic cake combines the rich flavors of butter and pecans, creating a tantalizing treat that appeals to the sweet tooth in all of us. Its moist texture and decadent brown sugar frosting make it perfect for any occasion, whether it's a cozy family gathering or a festive celebration. But what truly sets this cake apart is the nutty crunch from finely chopped pecans, which adds a layer of texture that makes each bite an experience to savor.

One reason for the popularity of butter pecan cake is its adaptability. You can easily find it gracing dessert tables from casual birthdays to elegant weddings. Plus, the combination of buttery goodness and nuttiness strikes a balance that makes it a hit among both cake lovers and gourmet enthusiasts. According to a survey by the American Culinary Federation, cakes featuring nuts are increasingly requested at events, highlighting the growing appreciation for flavors beyond the ordinary.

If you’ve yet to experience the joy of butter pecan cake, you’re in for a treat! Let’s dive into the recipe to unlock the secrets of this deliciously rich dessert.

Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cake

Creating the perfect Butter Pecan Cake is all about using the right ingredients to ensure that rich flavor and moist texture. Let’s break it down!

Essential Ingredients for the Cake

To make this dreamy Butter Pecan Cake, you’ll need:

• 1 cup unsalted butter: This is the star of the cake, providing a rich, buttery flavor.
• 3 cups cake flour: This flour helps achieve that soft, tender crumb.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: For sweetness and moisture.
• 1 cup light brown sugar: Adds depth with its caramel undertones.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder and ½ teaspoon baking soda: These leavening agents give the cake lift.
• 1 teaspoon salt: To balance the sweetness.
• 1 ½ cups buttermilk: This gives the cake a moist, tender crumb.
• 2 large eggs: For richness and structure.
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: A must for flavor.
• 1 ½ cups finely chopped pecans: For that delightful crunch!

Ingredients for the Brown Sugar Frosting

Now, let’s take a look at the frosting that brings the cake to life. You’ll need:

• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter: Softened for easy mixing.
• 6 oz cream cheese: For creaminess and a slight tang.
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar: To complement the flavors in the cake.
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Because who doesn’t love vanilla?
• ¼ teaspoon salt: A pinch to elevate the sweetness.
• 4 ½ cups powdered sugar: For a smooth, sweet frosting.
• 1 tablespoon heavy cream: To make the frosting silky.
• ⅓ cup finely chopped pecans (optional): A fun garnish for a nutty crunch.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re set to create a truly delicious Butter Pecan Cake that is sure to impress your family and friends! For additional tips on baking and ingredient substitutes, be sure to check out sources like Joy of Baking and Serious Eats. Happy baking!

Preparing Butter Pecan Cake

Creating a Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful baking adventure that’ll fill your kitchen with rich aromas and your heart with warmth. This cake features the wonderfully nutty flavor of pecans and a velvety brown sugar frosting that’s simply irresistible. Let’s break down the process into five easy steps.

Step 1: Brown the Butter

Start by browning the butter, which adds a deep, nutty flavor to your cake.

1. In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of unsalted butter.
2. Cook over medium-low heat until it melts, then increase to medium heat. The butter will foam and bubble—keep stirring!
3. Watch closely as it turns golden brown with little specks forming at the bottom. Once you reach this stage, remove it from heat and pour it into a heatproof bowl. Let it cool completely; it should still be liquid but no longer warm.

Browning the butter is an art that can elevate your cake to gourmet status. Need to brush up on your butter skills? Check out this guide on browning butter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Now, it’s time to mix everything together for our Butter Pecan Cake batter.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and lining them with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups of cake flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup tightly packed light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon salt.
3. Add in the previously browned butter and mix on low speed until well combined.
4. In another bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups buttermilk, 2 large eggs, and 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract. Gradually pour this mixture into the flour mixture, scraping the bowl as needed.
5. Be sure to fold in 1 ½ cups of finely chopped pecans until evenly distributed.

Step 3: Bake the Cake Layers

With the batter ready, let's bake those scrumptious layers!

1. Evenly distribute the batter among the three prepared pans.
2. Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
3. Cool the cakes in their pans for 15 minutes before carefully inverting them onto a wire rack. Make sure they are completely cool before you begin frosting!

Step 4: Make the Brown Sugar Frosting

While your cakes cool, it's frosting time!

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat 1 ½ cups of softened unsalted butter and 6 ounces of cream cheese until creamy.
2. Add ⅓ cup of packed light brown sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon salt, mixing until everything is smooth.
3. Gradually incorporate 4 ½ cups of powdered sugar while mixing on low. Pause to scrape down the sides of the bowl.
4. Finally, mix in 1 tablespoon of heavy cream, beating on high speed until your frosting is silky smooth.

Step 5: Assemble and Decorate the Cake

Now comes the best part—putting it all together!

1. If necessary, level your cake layers using a serrated knife.
2. Start by placing one layer on a cake plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top. Add the next layer and repeat.
3. For the outer layer, use a spatula to apply a thin crumb coat of frosting to seal in any crumbs. Chill for about 20 minutes.
4. Finish by applying a thicker coat of frosting around the sides and top of your cake. Want to impress? Use a piping tip to create beautiful swirls!
5. Optionally, sprinkle finely chopped pecans on top for a decorative touch.

And there you have it—your delicious and elegant Butter Pecan Cake is ready to be savored. Enjoy every slice, and don’t forget to share your baking experience!

Variations on Butter Pecan Cake

Chocolate Chip Butter Pecan Cake

For a delightful twist, try adding semi-sweet chocolate chips to your classic butter pecan cake batter! The rich chocolate complements the nutty flavor and buttery texture beautifully. Simply fold in about a cup of chocolate chips at the same time you add the chopped pecans. This combination will create a sumptuous dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Curious about other flavor pairings? Check out some amazing ideas on Food Network.

Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Elevate your butter pecan cake by topping it with a smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting. This frosting adds a delightful contrast to the sweet and nutty flavors of the cake. To make this variation, swap out the brown sugar frosting for cream cheese frosting, which you can whip up by mixing softened cream cheese with butter, powdered sugar, and a dash of vanilla extract. This luxurious addition not only enhances the cake but also keeps it moist! Want the full details? Visit Sally’s Baking Addiction for step-by-step guidance.

Experimenting with these variations will surely impress your guests and keep your dessert choices exciting!

Baking tips and notes for Butter Pecan Cake

Importance of ingredient temperature

Using room temperature ingredients can make a world of difference in your Butter Pecan Cake. When butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature, they blend more seamlessly, creating a light and airy batter. This not only helps the cake rise better but also contributes to a moist texture. For best results, take your ingredients out of the fridge at least an hour before baking.

Tips for achieving a moist cake

To ensure your Butter Pecan Cake remains tender and moist, consider the following tips:

• Don’t overmix: Once you add the wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. This helps avoid a dense cake.
• Utilize buttermilk: Its acidity adds moisture and tenderizes the cake; you could also try a homemade buttermilk substitute.
• Cool cakes properly: Allow them to cool in the pans briefly before transferring them to a wire rack to prevent dryness.

By keeping these tips in mind, you'll create a delicious cake that's perfect for any occasion!

Serving Suggestions for Butter Pecan Cake

Pairing with Vanilla Ice Cream

Indulging in a slice of Butter Pecan Cake is a treat on its own, but elevating it with a scoop of rich, creamy vanilla ice cream takes it to a whole new level. The warm cake contrasts beautifully with the cold ice cream, and the buttery, nutty flavors of the cake complement the vanilla's sweetness. Try drizzling a little caramel sauce over the top for an added touch of decadence.

Ideal Occasions for Serving

This delightful cake is perfect for a variety of celebrations! Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a more formal gathering, Butter Pecan Cake impresses with its rich flavor. Consider serving it at:

• Birthdays
• Anniversaries
• Holiday dinners
• Potlucks

Its versatile taste makes it a welcomed addition to any dessert table. Plus, who doesn’t love a cake that looks as good as it tastes?

Time Details for Butter Pecan Cake

Preparation Time

Getting started is half the fun! You'll need about 45 minutes to prepare your ingredients and mix together the components of this delicious Butter Pecan Cake.

Baking Time

Once you've got everything prepped, pop the cakes into the oven for a delightful 30 minutes. During this time, your kitchen will be filled with the wonderful aroma of baking.

Total Time

In just 1 hour and 15 minutes, you can have this scrumptious cake ready to impress your friends and family. Perfect for a cozy weekend bake or a festive gathering, this cake is sure to become a favorite.

Nutritional Information for Butter Pecan Cake

If you’re indulging in a slice of this delightful Butter Pecan Cake, you might be curious about its nutritional profile. Here’s a quick overview to keep you informed:

Calories

Each serving contains approximately 975 calories, making it a rich treat perfect for special occasions.

Protein

This cake packs in about 8 grams of protein per slice, largely thanks to the eggs and pecans, helping to balance out that sweetness.

Carbohydrates

With around 135 grams of carbohydrates, this cake is a satisfying choice for those looking to enjoy a lovely dessert. Remember, moderation is key!

For more on healthy baking, check out resources from Harvard Health and explore how to incorporate nutritious ingredients into your favorite sweets!

FAQs about Butter Pecan Cake

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the Butter Pecan Cake a day in advance. Just ensure it cools completely before storing it in an airtight container. Frost it on the day you plan to serve, or leave it unfrosted and keep the frosting separately. This will keep everything fresh and delicious!

What can I use as a substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, fear not! A simple substitute can be made by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, and voila! You've got a quick buttermilk alternative that's perfect for your Butter Pecan Cake.

How do I store leftover butter pecan cake?

Leftover Butter Pecan Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days, or in the fridge for about a week. To maintain its moisture, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices for up to three months!

Conclusion on Butter Pecan Cake

The Butter Pecan Cake is nothing short of a dessert masterpiece! Its moist, fluffy texture combined with the rich brown sugar frosting makes it a standout choice for any celebration or cozy gathering. Try this recipe, and delight your friends and family with a slice of heaven! For tips on cake decorating, check out this helpful guide.

Butter Pecan Cake

This Butter Pecan Cake offers a soft and moist texture, complemented by chopped pecans and a delectable brown sugar frosting.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 45 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins

Course Cake, Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 slices

Calories 975 kcal

Equipment

• 3 8” cake pans
• Mixing Bowls
• electric mixer

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

Cake

• 1 cup unsalted butter melted
• 3 cups cake flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup light brown sugar firmly packed
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 ½ cups buttermilk room temperature preferred
• 2 large eggs room temperature preferred
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups pecan halves very finely chopped

Icing

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

Instructions

 

Brown the Butter

• Place butter in a medium-sized pan and cook over medium/low heat until butter is melted. Increase heat to just above medium and cook, stirring frequently. Butter will foam, crackle, pop and sizzle. Stir, scraping the bottom of the pan, until you see golden brown specks. Remove from heat and pour into a heatproof bowl. Allow butter to cool completely before proceeding.

Make the Cake

• Preheat oven to 350F (175C) and grease 3 8” round baking pans with baking spray. Line the bottoms with rounds of parchment paper to ensure the cakes won’t stick.
• In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cake flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add browned butter and use an electric mixer to stir on low-speed until thoroughly incorporated.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla, then slowly drizzle into the flour mixture, pausing to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl as needed.
• Stir in pecans until well incorporated.
• Evenly divide batter into prepared baking sheets and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
• Allow cakes to cool in their pans for 15 minutes before running a knife around the edge of the cake to loosen it from the pan then carefully invert onto a cooling rack to cool completely.

Brown Sugar Frosting

• Combine butter, cream cheese, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt in a large mixing bowl and use an electric mixer to beat until smooth and creamy.
• With mixer on low-speed, gradually add powdered sugar until completely combined, pausing periodically to scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl.
• Add heavy cream and beat on high speed for 30 seconds, until frosting is smooth and silky.

Decorating Cake

• Level cakes if needed and decorate with frosting. Use extra chopped pecans for decoration if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 975kcal

Keyword brown sugar frosting, Butter Pecan Cake, cake recipes, dessert recipes, pecan cake, Sweet Treats

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