Homemade Butter Pecan Cake Recipe – Southern Classic

Southern kitchens keep secrets, and the butter pecan cake recipe is a true treasure. This cake is more than a dessert; it’s a tradition passed down through generations.

Picture a cake that’s so moist and rich, it feels like a warm porch in the Deep South. The best pecan cake has buttery layers and toasted pecans. Together, they create a flavor that’s unforgettable.

Making this classic dessert is more than following a recipe. It’s about connecting with a heritage that values simplicity and quality. It’s about sharing a homemade treat with those you love.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe will become a favorite. Get ready to explore the magic of southern baking.

Essential Ingredients and Kitchen Tools for Your Southern Pecan Cake

Making a delicious pecan cake from scratch needs the right ingredients and tools. This guide will show you how to get ready for a tasty Southern dessert that will wow everyone.

Must-Have Baking Ingredients

For a simple pecan cake recipe, collect these key ingredients:

  • All-purpose flour (high-quality)
  • Granulated sugar
  • Unsalted butter (room temperature)
  • Fresh eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Buttermilk or whole milk
  • Fresh pecans (the star of your cake)

Required Kitchen Equipment

Get your baking area ready with these important tools:

  1. 9-inch cake pan
  2. Electric mixer
  3. Mixing bowls
  4. Measuring cups and spoons
  5. Cooling rack
  6. Offset spatula

Preparing Your Pecans for Perfect Flavor

The key to a fantastic pecan cake is in how you prepare your nuts. Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and adds richness to your cake. Just spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes, stirring now and then.

“Great baking is about passion, precision, and quality ingredients.” – Southern Baking Wisdom

Pro tip: Let toasted pecans cool fully before chopping or adding to your cake batter. This keeps their crisp texture and strong flavor.

Recipe card

Want to make a moist butter pecan cake that will wow your loved ones? This recipe card has all you need to know to make pecan cake from scratch.

Essential Baking Equipment

  • 9-inch round cake pans (2)
  • Electric mixer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cooling rack
  • Offset spatula for pecan cake frosting

Cake Ingredients

  • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • 2 tsp baking powder

Frosting Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup toasted pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease cake pans
  2. Cream butter and sugar until fluffy
  3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly
  4. Combine dry ingredients separately
  5. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixture
  6. Fold in chopped pecans
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes
  8. Cool completely before frosting

Follow these steps, and baking a moist butter pecan cake will be a fun adventure. You’ll get amazing results!

BUTTER PECAN CAKE RECIPE Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the perfect butter pecan cake is easier than you think. This simple recipe guides you through each step. It’s perfect for beginners.

First, get your ingredients ready and your kitchen clean. Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature. This makes mixing easier and your cake will turn out right.

  1. Cream Butter and Sugar: Start by mixing softened butter and sugar until it’s light and fluffy. This step is key for a fluffy cake.
  2. Add Eggs Carefully: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Don’t overmix to keep it smooth.
  3. Fold in Dry Ingredients: Mix flour, salt, and baking powder into the wet ingredients gently. Use a spatula for this.
  4. Prepare Pecans: Lightly toast pecans in a skillet to bring out their flavor. Then, add them to the batter.

Baking needs precision. Preheat your oven exactly as the recipe says. Grease your cake pan well to prevent it from sticking.

“Patience is key in baking – take your time and enjoy the process!” – Grandma’s Baking Wisdom

  • Bake for 30-35 minutes
  • Check doneness with a toothpick
  • Let the cake cool completely before frosting

For the best butter pecan cake, let it cool completely before frosting. This stops the frosting from melting and gives a smooth finish.

Conclusion

Making a southern butter pecan cake from scratch might seem hard. But with the right techniques and passion, anyone can do it. This homemade pecan cake recipe brings Southern flavors right to your kitchen. It turns simple ingredients into a treat that will wow family and friends.

The key to the best pecan cake is quality ingredients and careful prep. Every step is important, from picking fresh pecans to measuring ingredients right. Your focus ensures a moist, flavorful cake that truly captures Southern baking’s essence. Feel free to try small changes once you’ve got the basic recipe down.

Baking this pecan cake is a special treat, whether for a big event or just because. Its rich, buttery texture and nutty pecan taste make it both comforting and fancy. Share it with your loved ones and enjoy watching them enjoy every bite of this classic Southern dessert.

Enjoy the fun of baking and make this recipe a favorite in your kitchen. With time and effort, you’ll make a butter pecan cake that’s as good as those in Southern kitchens.

FAQ

How do I know when my butter pecan cake is done baking?

Check with the toothpick test. Stick a toothpick into the cake’s center. If it’s clean or has a few moist crumbs, it’s done. The top should be golden and spring back when touched.

Can I make this butter pecan cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Bake the cake layers up to 2 days before. Wrap them in plastic wrap and keep at room temperature. Prepare the frosting a day early and refrigerate it. Let it warm up before spreading.

What’s the best way to toast pecans for this recipe?

To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 8-10 minutes. They’re done when fragrant and slightly darker. Cool them completely before adding to the batter.

Can I substitute ingredients if I don’t have exactly what the recipe calls for?

While following the recipe is best, some swaps are okay. Use buttermilk instead of regular milk, or some cake flour for a softer cake. But be careful with big swaps that could mess up the cake’s structure.

How should I store my butter pecan cake?

Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. If frosted, refrigerate for up to a week. Let it warm up before serving for the best taste and texture.

Can I freeze this butter pecan cake?

Yes! Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Wrap them in plastic wrap and foil. Thaw in the fridge before frosting and serving. Frosted cake can also be frozen for 2 months.

How can I prevent my pecans from sinking to the bottom of the cake?

Prevent pecans from sinking by tossing them in flour before adding to the batter. Fold them in gently and avoid overmixing.

What’s the best frosting to use with a butter pecan cake?

Use a cream cheese frosting or brown sugar buttercream. They match the cake’s nutty and buttery flavors, adding richness. butter pecan cake recipePicture a cake that's so moist and rich, it feels like a warm porch in the Deep South. The best pecan cake has buttery layers and toasted pecans. Together, they create a flavor that's unforgettable. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Equipment9-inch round cake pans (2)Electric mixerMixing bowlsMeasuring cups and spoonsCooling rackOffset spatula for pecan cake frostingIngredients  Cake Ingredients2½ cups all-purpose flour1½ cups granulated sugar1 cup unsalted butter softened4 large eggs1 cup chopped pecans1 tsp vanilla extract½ cup buttermilk2 tsp baking powderFrosting Ingredients1 cup unsalted butter4 cups powdered sugar¼ cup heavy cream1 tsp vanilla extract½ cup toasted pecansInstructions Preheat oven to 350°F and grease cake pansCream butter and sugar until fluffyAdd eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughlyCombine dry ingredients separatelyGradually mix dry ingredients into wet mixtureFold in chopped pecansBake for 25-30 minutesCool completely before frosting

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