Southern Butter Pecan Cake

Description:
This Southern Butter Pecan Cake is a rich, moist, and buttery dessert filled with toasted pecans and topped with creamy butter pecan frosting. Every bite melts in your mouth with a warm, nutty flavor that perfectly captures Southern comfort baking. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving something sweet, this cake will impress everyone at the table!

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs, room temperature

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Butter Pecan Frosting:

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened

8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup chopped toasted pecans (for mixing or topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes, stirring halfway until fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
2. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the flour.
5. Mix in vanilla extract and toasted pecans.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Divide the batter evenly between the pans.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

1. Beat butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated.
3. Mix in vanilla extract.
4. Fold in the toasted pecans (optional, or reserve for topping).

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of frosting.
2. Add the second layer and cover the entire cake with frosting.
3. Sprinkle additional toasted pecans on top for a beautiful finish. Serving Tip:

Serve at room temperature with a cup of coffee or tea. This cake tastes even better the next day when the flavors have melded together!