This rich and decadent Butter Pecan Layer Cake is a perfect treat for any celebration or special occasion. With a moist, buttery cake filled with crunchy pecans and topped with a luscious buttercream frosting, it’s sure to be a crowd favorite. The combination of toasted pecans and sweet, creamy frosting creates a luxurious dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
For the Buttercream Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
For Toasted Pecans (optional, for garnish):
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- Toast the pecans: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the chopped pecans for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.
- Make the cake batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the toasted pecans.
- Bake the cake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the buttercream frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth after each addition.
- Add the vanilla extract, salt, and heavy cream, beating until fluffy and spreadable. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream if needed.
- Assemble the cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place the first cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread a layer of buttercream frosting over the top, then top with a small handful of toasted pecans.
- Repeat with the second and third layers of cake, frosting each layer and topping with more pecans as you go.
- Once the cake is fully assembled, cover the top and sides with the remaining buttercream frosting.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the top of the cake with additional toasted pecans, if desired. Slice and serve the delicious Butter Pecan Layer Cake!
Enjoy this delightful dessert with a cup of coffee or tea for the perfect indulgence!