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Butter Pecan Cake: A Rich, Southern-Inspired Treat You’ll Bake Again and Again


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  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 55 mins
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

A rich, moist butter cake infused with toasted pecans and layered with creamy butter pecan frosting for a warm Southern-style dessert.


Ingredients

  • 1 cup pecans, chopped
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting pecans)
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup toasted pecans, finely chopped (for frosting)


Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
  2. In a skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter and toast the pecans until fragrant; set aside to cool.
  3. Cream 1 cup butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then mix in vanilla.
  5. In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
  6. Add dry mixture to wet ingredients alternately with milk, mixing until just combined.
  7. Fold in toasted pecans, then divide batter evenly between pans.
  8. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
  9. For the frosting, beat 1 cup butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar.
  10. Add heavy cream and vanilla, beating until fluffy.
  11. Fold in finely chopped toasted pecans.
  12. Frost the cooled cake layers and decorate with extra pecans if desired.

Notes

  • Toast pecans for deeper flavor.
  • Ensure cakes are fully cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
  • Store refrigerated for up to 4 days.
  • Prep Time: 25 mins
  • Cook Time: 30 mins
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American