Introduction
Butter pecan cake is a delicious and indulgent dessert that combines the rich flavors of butter, pecans, and vanilla in a moist and tender cake. This decadent treat is perfect for special occasions, gatherings, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea. The combination of buttery cake layers, crunchy pecans, and creamy frosting makes this cake a favorite among dessert lovers.
Whether you are a seasoned baker looking to impress your guests or a novice baker eager to try your hand at a new recipe, butter pecan cake is sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your sweet cravings. With its irresistible aroma and irresistible taste, this cake is bound to become a staple in your dessert repertoire.
In this article, we will explore the key ingredients needed to make a perfect butter pecan cake, the step-by-step instructions to create this delectable dessert, possible variations to customize the recipe to your liking, helpful tips for baking success, and finally, some frequently asked questions to address any queries you may have.
So, roll up your sleeves, preheat your oven, and let’s dive into the delightful world of butter pecan cake!
Ingredients
To prepare a scrumptious butter pecan cake, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2. 2 cups granulated sugar
3. 4 large eggs
4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5. 2 cups all-purpose flour
6. 1 teaspoon baking powder
7. 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
9. 1 cup buttermilk
10. 1 cup chopped pecans
For the frosting:
1. 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2. 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
3. 4 cups confectioners’ sugar
4. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5. 1 cup chopped pecans
Make sure to have all the ingredients at room temperature before you begin to ensure proper mixing and baking consistency.
Steps
Follow these steps to create a heavenly butter pecan cake:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Fold in the chopped pecans.
4. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
5. To make the frosting, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy. Stir in the chopped pecans.
6. Once the cakes are completely cooled, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake layer. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Garnish with additional pecans, if desired.
Variations
There are several ways to customize your butter pecan cake to suit your preferences:
1. Add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm and aromatic flavor.
2. Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty twist.
3. Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosted cake for an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence.
4. Experiment with different frosting flavors such as maple or coffee to create a unique taste sensation.
Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own by incorporating your favorite flavors and ingredients.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to ensure your butter pecan cake turns out perfectly:
1. Use high-quality ingredients for the best results, especially when it comes to butter, nuts, and vanilla extract.
2. Toast the pecans before adding them to the batter to enhance their flavor and crunchiness.
3. Do not overmix the batter to avoid a dense or tough cake texture. Mix until just combined for a tender crumb.
4. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off.
By following these tips, you can elevate your butter pecan cake to a professional-level dessert that will impress your friends and family.
Conclusion
Butter pecan cake is a delightful confection that combines the richness of butter, the crunchiness of pecans, and the sweetness of cream cheese frosting into a heavenly dessert. Whether enjoyed on its own or served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave you craving more.
With its simple yet decadent flavors, butter pecan cake is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the year. Whether for birthdays, holidays, or just a weekend indulgence, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
So, the next time you are in the mood for a delicious and comforting dessert, consider baking a butter pecan cake and treat yourself to a slice of pure bliss.
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter for this recipe?
A: While you can use salted butter, it is recommended to use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the cake since salted butter varies in salt content.
Q: How should I store leftover butter pecan cake?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
Q: Can I freeze butter pecan cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake layers without frosting for up to 2-3 months. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.
Q: Can I make cupcakes instead of a layer cake with this recipe?
A: Yes, you can convert this recipe into cupcakes by adjusting the baking time to approximately 18-20 minutes. Fill cupcake liners 2/3 full with batter and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Butter Pecan Cake
Indulge in the rich flavors of butter, pecans, and vanilla with this moist and tender butter pecan cake. Perfect for special occasions or as a sweet treat to enjoy with coffee or tea, this cake is a favorite among dessert lovers.
Ingredients
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 cups granulated sugar
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4 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 cup buttermilk
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1 cup chopped pecans
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
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4 cups confectioners' sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup chopped pecans
Directions
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
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Cream together butter and sugar, add eggs one at a time, mix in vanilla extract.
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Combine dry ingredients and buttermilk, mix into butter mixture, fold in chopped pecans.
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Divide batter into cake pans, bake for 25-30 minutes, cool completely on wire racks.
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For the frosting, beat butter and cream cheese, add sugar and vanilla, stir in chopped pecans.
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Frost one cake layer, place the second layer on top, frost the top and sides of the cake, garnish with pecans.
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Serve and enjoy!
