Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup milk
- 3 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 3 large eggs
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Pecan Topping:
- While the cake is baking, mix together the chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and cinnamon (if using) in a bowl.
- Add the Topping:
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, spread the pecan topping evenly over the warm cake.
- Final Bake: Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the topping is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before slicing. Serve as is or with whipped cream for an extra treat!
Enjoy your delicious cake with pecan topping!