Easy Homemade Butter Pecan Cake Recipe

Name: Easy Homemade Butter Pecan Cake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 12
Ingredients: For the Cake:; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled); 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth); 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs, at room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or butter extract for a more pronounced buttery flavor); 1/2 cup buttermilk (or milk with a splash of lemon juice/vinegar as a substitute); 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted (optional but highly recommended for added flavor); For the Butter Pecan Topping (Optional but highly recommended):; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon heavy cream (or more for a thinner consistency)

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

January 6, 2025

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Easy Homemade Butter Pecan Cake Recipe

Butter Pecan Cake is a moist, flavorful, and aromatic dessert that combines the rich flavor of butter with the nuttiness of toasted pecans. The cake itself is light, tender, and fluffy, with the pecans adding a delightful crunch. It’s a versatile dessert perfect for many occasions, from casual family dinners to special celebrations.

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The recipe provided here is an easy homemade version that uses simple ingredients yet delivers a rich, satisfying cake. It’s beginner-friendly but full of delicious, homemade flavors that will impress anyone who tries it.

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour your 9-inch round or square cake pan (you can also line the bottom with parchment paper for easier removal).
If you’re using a bundt pan or loaf pan, be sure to grease and flour the pan thoroughly.

Pro Tip: If you’re using a non-stick cake pan, make sure to also line the bottom with parchment paper. This ensures your cake won’t stick to the pan and will come out perfectly smooth.

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Step 2: Toast the Pecans (If Using)

Toast the pecans for the cake and topping to bring out their rich, nutty flavor. Place the pecans on a baking sheet in a single layer and toast in the preheated oven for 5–7 minutes, or until fragrant. Be sure to check often to prevent burning.
Once toasted, chop the pecans roughly into smaller pieces for the cake and topping. Set aside to cool.

Pro Tip: You can toast the pecans in a skillet over medium heat if you prefer a quicker method. Just make sure to stir frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set the bowl aside for later.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat on medium-high speed for about 3–5 minutes, or until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color.

Pro Tip: Make sure your butter is softened to room temperature for best results. Cold butter will not cream properly and could result in a denser cake.

Step 5: Add the Eggs

Add the eggs, one at a time, to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat well after each addition to ensure the eggs are fully incorporated into the batter.
Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to make sure everything is mixed evenly.

Step 6: Add Vanilla Extract and Buttermilk

Stir in the vanilla extract.
Add the buttermilk (or milk substitute), and mix to combine.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a simple substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a measuring cup, then filling it up to the 1/2 cup mark with regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Step 7: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients in 3 additions, mixing just until combined each time. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cake dense.
Once everything is fully incorporated, fold in the toasted pecans gently.

Pro Tip: If you want to prevent the pecans from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking, lightly toss them in a small amount of flour before folding them into the batter.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Once done, remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Optional Step: Make the Butter Pecan Topping

If you’d like to add a decadent butter pecan topping, follow these steps after the cake has finished baking:

Step 1: Make the Topping

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
Stir in the light brown sugar and cook for about 2–3 minutes until the sugar has dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
Add the chopped pecans and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream. If you prefer a thicker topping, use less cream. If you prefer a thinner glaze, add a little extra.

Step 2: Pour the Topping Over the Cake

Once the cake has cooled to room temperature, drizzle the butter pecan topping over the cake, allowing it to slightly drip down the sides.
Let the topping set before slicing.

Pro Tip: For a more rustic presentation, you can leave the topping slightly drippy or pour a larger amount of the glaze over the top for a more indulgent look.

Serving and Enjoying Your Butter Pecan Cake

Slice your cake into 12 equal pieces for the perfect serving size.
Serve on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Pro Tip: For a warm, cozy dessert, microwave individual slices of cake for 10–15 seconds before serving, especially if you’ve paired it with ice cream. The cake will become extra moist and melt the ice cream just slightly.

Variations of Butter Pecan Cake

1. Butter Pecan Cupcakes

To turn this recipe into cupcakes, simply divide the batter into 12 muffin tins, filling each one about 2/3 full. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

2. Adding Spices

For extra warmth, you can add nutmeg, cloves, or allspice to the dry ingredients. This will create a more complex flavor profile, similar to a spice cake.

3. Brown Sugar Buttercream Frosting

For a richer finish, top your cake with a brown sugar buttercream frosting. Mix 1 cup unsalted butter with 1 cup powdered sugar, then add 2 tablespoons brown sugar and vanilla extract. Beat until light and fluffy.

4. Caramelized Pecan Butter Topping

Instead of just butter and sugar, make a caramelized pecan topping by cooking brown sugar and butter until bubbly, then adding pecans and letting them caramelize before pouring the mixture over the cake.

Conclusion

Making a Butter Pecan Cake from scratch doesn’t have to be complicated. This recipe gives you a perfect balance of rich butter flavor, crunchy toasted pecans, and a moist, tender cake that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this cake will surely become a family favorite.

With the optional butter pecan topping, the cake becomes even more indulgent, creating a mouthwatering dessert that combines everything we love about classic butter pecan flavor into one perfect cake.

Troubleshooting and Common Mistakes

Even though Butter Pecan Cake is an easy recipe to follow, there are some common issues that may arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you get the best results:

1. Cake Not Rising Properly

Possible Cause: The baking powder or baking soda may have lost its potency.
Solution: Always check the expiration date of your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda). To test if your baking powder is still good, add a small amount to a bowl of hot water. If it bubbles immediately, it’s good to go. If it doesn’t, it’s time to replace it.
Solution: Also, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can cause the cake to deflate.

2. Dense Cake

Possible Cause: Overmixing the batter or not incorporating enough air when creaming the butter and sugar.
Solution: Be gentle when mixing the dry ingredients into the wet ones. Overmixing causes the gluten in the flour to develop too much, making the cake dense and heavy.
Solution: Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly until the mixture is light and fluffy, which helps incorporate air into the batter.

3. Cake Sticking to the Pan

Possible Cause: The pan wasn’t greased or floured enough, or parchment paper wasn’t used.
Solution: Ensure you properly grease the sides and bottom of the pan with butter or non-stick spray, and dust it with a light layer of flour, or use parchment paper for easy removal.

4. Cake Is Too Dry

Possible Cause: Overbaking, or not measuring ingredients correctly (flour can be packed, leading to more than necessary).
Solution: Always check the cake by inserting a toothpick into the center at the end of the suggested baking time. The cake should have a few moist crumbs, but not be wet. If the toothpick comes out clean, it’s overbaked.
Solution: Make sure you’re measuring your flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off with a knife. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake.

5. Overly Sweet Topping

Possible Cause: The butter pecan topping might be too sugary for some tastes.
Solution: You can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the topping for a more balanced sweetness or substitute half of the brown sugar with heavy cream to reduce its intensity.

How to Make Butter Pecan Cake Ahead of Time

This Butter Pecan Cake can be made ahead of time, which is perfect if you’re planning for a special event or want to save time on the day of. Here’s how you can prep it:

1. Prepare the Cake Layers Ahead of Time

Bake the cake layers as per the instructions, then allow them to cool completely.
Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store the cake for longer, you can freeze the layers for up to 3 months. Simply thaw in the fridge the night before you plan to serve it.

2. Prepare the Butter Pecan Topping in Advance

You can make the butter pecan topping ahead of time, too. After cooking the pecans with brown sugar and butter, let it cool to room temperature and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. When ready to use, just reheat it gently over low heat and drizzle it over the cake.

3. Frosting and Serving

If you plan on using a frosting, such as buttercream or cream cheese frosting, you can prepare that ahead of time as well. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Let it come to room temperature before frosting the cake to make it easier to spread.

Creative Ways to Customize Butter Pecan Cake

If you want to add a unique spin on the classic Butter Pecan Cake, here are some fun ideas:

1. Add a Layer of Caramel Sauce

For extra decadence, drizzle a layer of caramel sauce on top of the cake after you’ve frosted or topped it with the pecan mixture. This will enhance the richness of the flavor and complement the buttery pecan topping beautifully.

2. Add Chocolate Chips

If you’re a fan of chocolate, fold in semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips into the batter along with the pecans. The combination of chocolate and butter pecans will remind you of a rich, nutty chocolate cake with a twist.

3. Make It Into a Carrot-Pecan Cake

For a more spiced, hearty flavor, incorporate finely grated carrots into the cake batter along with the pecans. This will give you a unique twist, combining the flavors of carrot cake with the nutty, buttery taste of pecans.

4. Layered Butter Pecan Cake

Make this cake into a layer cake by dividing the batter into two or three cake pans. After baking and cooling the layers, layer them with frosting and toasted pecans between each layer. This creates a stunning visual effect and allows for a more indulgent ratio of frosting to cake.

Pairing Suggestions

Beverages to Pair with Butter Pecan Cake:

Coffee: A freshly brewed cup of coffee or espresso will cut through the richness of the cake while complementing its flavors.
Tea: A delicate Earl Grey or a chai tea adds warmth and spice that pairs perfectly with the nutty notes of the cake.
Milk: A glass of cold milk is always a classic pairing with cake, offering a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the dessert.
Dessert Wine: For a more sophisticated pairing, try a glass of port wine or dessert wine, which has the perfect amount of sweetness to enhance the pecan flavors.

Butter Pecan Cake for Special Occasions

This Butter Pecan Cake is perfect for a variety of celebrations. Here are some occasions where this cake will shine:

1. Thanksgiving or Fall Holidays

Pecans are a staple during the fall season, and this cake’s buttery richness and nutty flavor make it the perfect dessert for a Thanksgiving or autumn dinner. Serve it as an alternative to pumpkin pie or apple pie for a refreshing change.

2. Birthday Parties

With its delightful texture and sweet topping, this cake makes an excellent birthday cake. You can dress it up with candles or even personalize it by adding birthday decorations on top (sprinkles, edible glitter, or themed decor).

3. Potlucks and Family Gatherings

Since it’s easy to make and doesn’t require intricate frosting or decorations, this cake is a hit at potlucks or family gatherings. You can bake it the day before and simply serve it the next day with whipped cream or ice cream.

4. Holiday Gatherings

For special holiday gatherings like Christmas or Easter, the combination of toasted pecans, rich butter, and brown sugar is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. You can also add festive decorations like powdered sugar snowflakes or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a holiday touch.

Final Thoughts on Butter Pecan Cake

The Easy Homemade Butter Pecan Cake is a versatile, indulgent treat that’s sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. With its moist, buttery crumb and crunchy, toasted pecans, it’s the perfect dessert for anyone who loves the flavor combination of nuts and caramelized sugar. Whether served on its own or with a decadent topping, this cake will make any occasion feel special.

By following the tips in this guide, you’ll be able to make a flawless Butter Pecan Cake every time. Don’t hesitate to get creative with variations and toppings—there are so many ways to personalize this cake to suit your tastes and the event you’re celebrating.

Yield: 12