Welcome to our delightful and decadent dessert recipes section! Today, we’re sharing a rich and flavorful Butter Pecan Cake recipe. This cake is perfect for any celebration or special occasion, offering a buttery and nutty flavor that everyone will love. Let’s get started!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1-1/4 cups butter, softened, divided
- 2-2/3 cups chopped pecans
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups sugar
- 1 cup milk
- 4 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 8 to 8-1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 can (5 ounces) evaporated milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup butter, softened
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pecans
- Toast Pecans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter. Add the chopped pecans and toast them, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the remaining 1 cup of softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Prepare Pans: Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- Divide Batter: Divide the cake batter evenly among the prepared pans.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Cool: Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Prepare the Frosting
- Cream Butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
- Add Confectioners’ Sugar and Milk: Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, one cup at a time, alternating with the evaporated milk. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Stir in the vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Layer Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting over the top.
- Add Second Layer: Place the second cake layer on top of the first and spread frosting over the top.
- Add Third Layer: Place the third cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Decorate: If desired, garnish the cake with additional chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Step 6: Serve
- Serve and Enjoy: Slice the cake and serve. Enjoy your rich and delicious Butter Pecan Cake!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Pecans: Make sure to toast the pecans for a richer, nuttier flavor.
- Butter: Use high-quality butter for the best flavor and texture.
- Frosting: Adjust the consistency of the frosting by adding more confectioners’ sugar or milk as needed.
Variations
Chocolate Pecan Cake
Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate twist. Use chocolate frosting or a mix of chocolate and butter pecan frosting for a decadent treat.
Caramel Pecan Cake
Drizzle caramel sauce between the cake layers and on top for an extra sweet and gooey addition.
Maple Pecan Cake
Replace the vanilla extract with maple extract for a delightful maple flavor. Add a drizzle of maple syrup on top for extra sweetness.
Vegan Butter Pecan Cake
Use plant-based butter and milk, and replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.
What can I serve with this cake?
Serve the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.
How can I make the cake healthier?
Use a sugar substitute suitable for baking, reduce the amount of butter, and use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour to make the cake healthier.
Butter Pecan Cake is a rich and flavorful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist texture and nutty flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious cake with your loved ones!
