This classic butter pecan cake combines a moist, tender crumb with the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans and buttery goodness. Perfect for celebrations or when you just want a delightful dessert with a touch of Southern charm.
Ingredients
- For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
- For the Butter Pecan Filling:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (more as needed)
- 1/2 cup toasted pecans for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the toasted pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and 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, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Butter Pecan Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Cook until the mixture starts to bubble. Remove from heat and stir in the toasted pecans. Let cool.
- Prepare the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing until smooth. Add the vanilla and heavy cream, beating until light and fluffy. Add more cream if needed to reach your desired consistency.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the butter pecan filling evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top.
- Frost the entire cake with the buttercream frosting. Garnish with additional toasted pecans if desired.
- Serve:
- Slice and enjoy this rich, buttery, and pecan-filled cake with friends and family! Perfect for any occasion.