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Butter Pecan Cake

Buttery Bliss: Irresistible Butter Pecan Cake Recipe

Experience the nostalgic flavor of Butter Pecan Cake with its rich brown sugar and pecans.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 226 g Unsalted Butter Provides richness and flavor; use salted butter for a different taste.
  • 333 g Cake Flour Gives a light, tender crumb; substitute with all-purpose flour, removing 2 tablespoons per cup and replacing with cornstarch.
  • 200 g Granulated Sugar Sweetens the cake; no direct substitutions.
  • 200 g Light Brown Sugar Adds moisture and a subtle caramel flavor; dark brown sugar can lend a deeper taste.
  • 1 tsp Baking Powder Acts as a leavening agent for rising; ensure it's fresh for best results.
  • 0.5 tsp Baking Soda Works with the buttermilk for additional leavening.
  • 1 tsp Salt Enhances flavor.
  • 354 ml Buttermilk Adds moisture and tanginess; can substitute with milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 2 large Eggs Provides structure and moisture; no substitute for eggs, but consider flax eggs for vegan options.
  • 1.5 tsp Vanilla Extract Enhances flavor; look for pure vanilla for the best taste.
  • 160 g Pecans Adds texture and nutty flavor; toasting enhances the flavor.
For the Frosting
  • 170 g Cream Cheese Base for frosting, adding tanginess; vegan cream cheese can be a dairy-free option.
  • 562 g Confectioners’ Sugar Sweetens and thickens the frosting for a smooth texture.
  • 1 tbsp Heavy Cream Adjusts frosting texture; use non-dairy cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Optional Garnish
  • 35 g Pecan Halves For garnish or folded into frosting as desired.

Equipment

  • Light-colored saucepan
  • mixing bowls
  • whisk
  • spatula
  • Serrated Knife
  • Cake Pans
  • Parchment paper
  • Oven
  • Wire racks

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter Pecan Cake
  1. In a light-colored saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium-low heat until it turns a deep amber color and emits a nutty aroma, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease three 20-cm round cake pans with butter or non-stick spray and line with parchment paper.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together cake flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. Add the cooled browned butter to the bowl of dry ingredients and mix until it resembles coarse sand, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well blended. Gradually add to the dry mixture, mixing gently until just combined.
  6. Gently fold in finely chopped pecans using a spatula until evenly distributed.
  7. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for approximately 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  8. Allow the layers to cool in their pans for 15-20 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
  9. Beat together softened cream cheese, some cooled butter, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Gradually add confectioners' sugar and mix in heavy cream until desired consistency is reached.
  10. Level the tops of the cooled cake layers. Spread frosting on the first layer, repeat with the second layer, and top with the final layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake, then chill to set.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 5gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 300mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 35gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

This Butter Pecan Cake is perfect for special occasions or cozy evenings at home. Serve with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!

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