Butter Pecan Cake Recipe: 7 Tips for Irresistible Flavor

Name: Butter Pecan Cake Recipe: 7 Tips for Irresistible Flavor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup brown sugar; 4 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup pecans, chopped; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup buttermilk

octobre 15, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this butter pecan cake! It’s rich, moist, and absolutely bursting with flavor. I first tried this recipe at a family gathering, and I couldn’t believe how perfectly the buttery taste paired with the crunch of the pecans. It’s like a warm hug on a plate! You know those days when you just want to treat yourself? This cake is perfect for that! It’s super simple to whip up, and the smell of it baking will have everyone flocking to your kitchen. Trust me, once you try a slice, you’ll want to make it for every occasion – birthdays, holidays, or just because! So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this delightful butter pecan cake together!

butter pecan cake recipe - detail 1

Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cake Recipe

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful cake! Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, softened (make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing!)
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar (light or dark, your choice!)
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (this adds such a lovely depth of flavor)
1 cup pecans, chopped (you can toast them lightly for extra flavor if you want!)
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt (don’t skip this; it balances the flavors beautifully)
1 cup buttermilk (adds moisture and a slight tang)

Make sure to check your pantry before you start. Fresh ingredients make all the difference in taste! Now, let’s get ready to bake this scrumptious cake!

How to Prepare Butter Pecan Cake Recipe

Alright, let’s get our hands dirty and make this butter pecan cake! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to a deliciously moist cake that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because you want that oven nice and hot when the batter hits the pan! While that’s heating up, grab your favorite cake pan—either a 9×13 inch or two round pans work great for this recipe. Grease and flour the pan to make sure your cake releases easily after baking. Trust me, no one wants a cake that sticks!

Step 2: Creaming the Butters and Sugars

Now, let’s get to the fun part! In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter with the granulated and brown sugars. I usually use an electric mixer on medium speed because it really gets that air in there, making the cake light and fluffy. Mix until it’s light in color and super creamy—about 3-4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when you can’t see any sugar granules anymore!

Step 3: Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla

Next, it’s egg time! Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step is crucial because it helps the eggs blend in evenly and gives the cake that lovely structure. Don’t forget to add the vanilla extract in this step as well; it makes everything taste divine! Mix until everything is just combined—overmixing can lead to a denser cake.

Step 4: Mixing Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is important because it ensures that all the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour, giving your cake the perfect rise. Take a moment to breathe in that fresh flour—it’s a baker’s bliss!

Step 5: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now comes the fun part—let’s bring it all together! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients (dry-wet-dry) to help keep the batter smooth. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to gently fold everything together until you see no more flour. Just be careful not to overmix; we want that cake to stay fluffy!

Step 6: Adding Pecans

It’s pecan time! Gently fold in the chopped pecans until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter. You want to do this gently so you don’t deflate all that lovely air you’ve worked so hard to create. If you toasted the pecans beforehand, oh man, you’re in for a treat! They’ll add an extra layer of flavor that’s absolutely divine.

Step 7: Baking the Cake

Finally, pour that beautiful batter into your prepared cake pan. Give it a little shake to level it out, then pop it into the oven. Bake for about 30-35 minutes, but keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. Once it’s baked, let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Your kitchen is about to smell heavenly!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich, buttery flavor that melts in your mouth
Moist and tender texture thanks to the buttermilk
Chopped pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty aroma
Simple and straightforward preparation, perfect for bakers of all levels
Versatile dessert suitable for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or just a cozy night in
Pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream
Can be made a day ahead for even better flavor
Leftovers (if there are any!) stay fresh and delicious in an airtight container

Trust me, this butter pecan cake is going to be your new go-to recipe! The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible, and I know you’ll love every bite.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make this delicious butter pecan cake, here are some of my favorite tips to ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

Room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before you start mixing. This helps everything combine smoothly, creating that light and fluffy texture we’re after.
Don’t skip the sifting: If you have a minute, sift your flour and dry ingredients together. It adds air to the flour and helps prevent lumps, which is key for a nice, even cake.
Measure accurately: Use the spoon and level method for measuring flour—scoop it into your measuring cup with a spoon, then level it off with a knife. Too much flour can make the cake dense, and nobody wants that!
Mix gently: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until you see no more flour. Overmixing can lead to a tougher cake, and we want it to be tender and moist!
Check for doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cake a few minutes before the timer goes off. A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs—if it’s gooey, it needs more time!
Cool properly: Let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart and helps maintain its lovely shape.
Embrace the leftovers: If you have any cake left (which I doubt!), store it in an airtight container. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to create a butter pecan cake that’s not just good, but absolutely unforgettable. Enjoy the baking adventure!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve whipped up this delicious butter pecan cake, you might be wondering how to keep it fresh for later. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here’s how to store those lovely leftovers:

Storing leftovers: Make sure the cake has cooled completely before you store it. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it moist and prevents it from drying out. You can store it at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: If you want to save it for a later date, this cake freezes beautifully! Just slice it into individual pieces, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

Now, if you want to reheat a slice (because who doesn’t love warm cake?), here’s what to do:

Microwave: Pop a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. Keep an eye on it, though! You just want it warm—not hot—so it stays soft and delicious.
Oven: If you prefer a bit of a crust on your cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), wrap the slice in aluminum foil, and warm it for about 10 minutes. This method keeps it nice and moist while giving you that freshly baked vibe.

With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor every last crumb of your butter pecan cake long after it’s baked. Enjoy your sweet moments!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Hey there, my fellow bakers! I just want to give you a quick heads-up about the nutritional information I’ve shared for this butter pecan cake. Keep in mind that the nutrition values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I’ve done my best to provide accurate estimates, it’s not an exact science. Always feel free to adjust based on your own preferences or dietary needs. Happy baking and enjoy every bite of that delicious cake!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making this delicious butter pecan cake? No worries! I’m here to help you navigate any baking curiosities you might have. Here are some common questions I get asked:

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Sure thing! Just keep in mind that using salted butter will add a bit more salt to the recipe, so you might want to reduce the added salt a pinch. But it’ll still taste fabulous!

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

No buttermilk? No problem! You can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, and voilà! You’ve got a perfect buttermilk substitute!

Can I add other nuts or mix-ins?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans, you can substitute them with walnuts or even chocolate chips for a sweet twist. Just remember to adjust the amount to your liking!

How do I know when the cake is done?

Great question! You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If the toothpick has wet batter, give it a few more minutes. Ovens can be sneaky!

Can I frost this cake?

For sure! A light cream cheese frosting or whipped cream would pair beautifully with the butter pecan cake. It adds a lovely creaminess that complements the cake’s richness!

How should I store the cake?

Once it’s cooled, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for a few days at room temperature or up to a week in the fridge. Just make sure it’s completely cooled first!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Definitely! This cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just store it properly, and you’re good to go!

If you have any more questions, feel free to reach out! I’m always excited to help fellow bakers enjoy this delicious butter pecan cake! Happy baking!

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Sur moi

Bonjour, je m'appelle Julia, je suis le cœur de Vihaad Recettes et une passionnée de bonne cuisine. Mon amour pour la cuisine a commencé dans mon enfance, inspirée par les délicieux repas de ma grand-mère. Aujourd'hui, je partage des recettes savoureuses qui rassemblent les gens à travers le plaisir de manger ensemble.