Butter Pecan Cake is the kind of dessert that wraps you in a warm hug, inviting you to savor every bite. Imagine a slice that’s buttery, nutty, and just sweet enough to make you forget about your worries. autumn-inspired treats The aroma wafting through your kitchen will entice everyone nearby, making them wonder if they’ve stumbled into a bakery instead of your humble abode.

This cake is perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or even a quiet evening when you need a little sweet pick-me-up. I remember the first time I made Butter Pecan Cake; my friends couldn’t resist coming back for seconds. cozy snack ideas It’s rich and delightful, promising an explosion of flavor with each forkful that dances on your taste buds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Butter Pecan Cake is remarkably easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor
- Its rich, buttery taste combined with crunchy pecans makes it irresistible
- Visually stunning with its golden hue and nutty topping, it’s sure to impress your guests
- Perfect for celebrations or cozy nights in, this cake fits any occasion beautifully
I still chuckle when I think about my cousin’s face the first time she tried this cake; her eyes widened in sheer delight as she exclaimed it was “life-changing.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for a rich flavor; let it soften at room temperature before mixing.
- Granulated Sugar: This is essential for sweetness; consider using organic sugar for a more wholesome touch.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark, both add depth and moisture to the cake; choose based on your preference.
- Eggs: Fresh eggs help bind ingredients and add richness; use large eggs for best results.
- All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the cake; sift it well to ensure lightness and fluffiness.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise perfectly; make sure it’s fresh for best results.
- Pecans: Toasted pecans enhance flavor and add crunch; chop them roughly to keep some larger pieces for texture.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract elevates the cake’s flavor profile; avoid imitation for better results.
- Milk: Whole milk adds creaminess; you can substitute with buttermilk for an extra tender crumb.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Oven and Pans: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans with butter and dust them lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Cream Butter and Sugars Together: In a large bowl, beat softened unsalted butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until fluffy and pale. brown butter desserts This should take about 3-5 minutes; don’t rush this step!
Add Eggs and Vanilla Extract: Crack in the eggs one by one, mixing well after each addition. Then pour in the vanilla extract—your kitchen should start smelling heavenly now!
Combine Dry Ingredients Separately: In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt until evenly mixed. This helps ensure no lumps sneak into your batter.
Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients Together: Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet batter while alternating with milk. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix or you’ll end up with a dense cake!
Add Toasted Pecans Last: Fold in those glorious toasted pecans gently so they’re distributed evenly throughout the batter without crushing them.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Divide the batter between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. A toothpick inserted should come out clean—resist the urge to open the oven too soon!
Once cooled, frost generously with your favorite icing or enjoy plain—either way, you’re in for a treat!
And there you have it: a delightful Butter Pecan Cake that will leave everyone clamoring for more! Enjoy every bite! For more inspiration, check out this White Chocolate Raspberry Cake recipe.
You Must Know
- Baking a Butter Pecan Cake is an art; balance the butter and sugar for perfect moisture
- The aroma of toasting pecans fills the kitchen, creating nostalgia
- A well-timed mix ensures a tender crumb that will have everyone begging for more
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by toasting the pecans first to enhance their flavor, then cream the butter and sugar until fluffy before gradually adding eggs and dry ingredients for a smooth batter.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to substitute walnuts if you can’t find pecans or add chocolate chips for a fun twist. A splash of vanilla extract can elevate the flavor significantly too.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Butter Pecan Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it wrapped tightly for up to a week, or freeze it for later enjoyment.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect texture, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing
- Don’t overmix the batter; stop as soon as everything is blended
- Always check your cake with a toothpick—moist crumbs mean it’s done!
Baking this Butter Pecan Cake reminds me of family gatherings filled with laughter and sweet bites. delicious cake variations My grandmother would always say, “A cake baked with love tastes best,” and I couldn’t agree more!
FAQ
What can I use instead of pecans in Butter Pecan Cake?
You can easily substitute walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
How do I know when my Butter Pecan Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with moist crumbs.
Can I frost my Butter Pecan Cake?
Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with this moist cake for added flavor. For more inspiration, check out this Blueberry Cream Cheese Muffins recipe.

Butter Pecan Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that envelops your senses with its buttery richness and crunchy pecans. This cake is not only visually appealing with its golden hue but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to cozy evenings at home. Its irresistible flavor will have everyone asking for seconds, ensuring you create sweet memories with each slice.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until fluffy (3–5 minutes).
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet batter, alternating with milk until just combined.
- Fold in the toasted pecans gently.
- Divide the batter between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 31g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 90mg