Hello, dessert lovers! If you’re looking for a show-stopping cake recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds, you’ve come to the right place. This Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is an irresistible combination of nutty, buttery pecans and creamy, smooth icing that will make any occasion extra special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake is easy to make and offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into the recipe and get baking!
Introduction
The Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is a classic Southern dessert that highlights the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans paired with the tangy sweetness of cream cheese icing. It’s perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests. What makes this cake truly stand out is its balance between the buttery pecans and the light, moist texture of the cake, topped with a deliciously creamy frosting. With this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll have a decadent cake that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s discover how to make this Butter Pecan Cake and why it’s a must-try for cake lovers everywhere.
Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delectable Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing:
For the Butter Pecan Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
Optional Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of the all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter and buttermilk with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk.
How to Make Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing – Step by Step
Let’s walk through the process of making this Butter Pecan Cake with ease. Whether you’re a baking novice or a pro, these steps will guide you to success.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will have an even bake.
2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air, giving your cake a tender crumb.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans to ensure even distribution throughout the cake.
3: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans or pour it into the 9×13-inch pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes (or 35-40 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before icing.
4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well between each addition. This prevents lumps and creates a silky texture.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and enough milk to achieve your desired icing consistency. You can adjust the thickness by adding more milk for a thinner icing or less for a thicker one.
5: Frost the Cake
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- For extra flair, garnish with additional chopped pecans.
6: Serve
Slice and enjoy this rich and flavorful Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing. This cake combines the nutty flavor of buttered pecans with the creamy sweetness of cream cheese icing, creating a deliciously indulgent dessert.
Helpful Tips for Butter Pecan Cake
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and gives them a satisfying crunch. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even baking.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
Cooking Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Cake
- Use Buttermilk: Buttermilk helps create a moist and tender cake, so don’t skip it. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.
- Baking Pans: For an evenly baked cake, use light-colored metal pans. Dark pans absorb more heat and can cause the edges of the cake to overbrown.
- Cooling Time: Let the cake cool completely before frosting. This prevents the icing from melting and keeps the cake’s structure intact.
Serving Suggestions for Butter Pecan Cake
This Butter Pecan Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages:
- Coffee or Tea: The rich flavors of the cake complement the bitterness of coffee or a refreshing cup of tea.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.
- Caramel Drizzle: For those with an extra sweet tooth, a drizzle of caramel sauce over each slice adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the pecans.
Nutritional Information
This Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing offers a balance of flavors, but as a dessert, it’s meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Here’s a quick look at its nutritional benefits:
- Pecans: Pecans are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, making them a nutritious addition to the cake.
- Cream Cheese: Although rich in fats, cream cheese contains calcium and vitamin A, contributing to bone health and immune function.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 5g
Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 35g
Vitamins: A, C, Calcium, Iron
Storage and Leftovers for Butter Pecan Cake
To keep your Butter Pecan Cake fresh for longer, follow these simple steps:
- Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each layer in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting.
- Reheating: To reheat slices, place them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to slightly warm the cake and icing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Butter Pecan Cake
Q1: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix.
Q2: How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to grease and flour your pans thoroughly. You can also line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper for added security.
Q3: Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds make great substitutes for pecans if you prefer a different flavor or texture.
Q4: How do I achieve smooth cream cheese icing?
Ensure both the cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. Beat until smooth before adding the powdered sugar.
Related Recipes for Butter Pecan Cake Lovers
If you loved this Butter Pecan Cake, check out these similar recipes from Optimal Recipes for more inspiration:
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a homemade Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing. This cake is not only rich in flavor but also incredibly satisfying, thanks to the combination of buttery pecans and creamy icing. We hope you give this recipe a try and make it a part of your dessert rotation. Let us know in the comments how it turned out, and don’t hesitate to share any personal variations you tried!
Happy baking!
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Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
Description
Hello, dessert lovers! If you’re looking for a show-stopping cake recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds, you’ve come to the right place. This Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is an irresistible combination of nutty, buttery pecans and creamy, smooth icing that will make any occasion extra special. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake is easy to make and offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into the recipe and get baking!
Ingredients
For the Butter Pecan Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)
Optional Substitutions:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of the all-purpose flour.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter and buttermilk with plant-based alternatives like coconut oil and almond milk.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13-inch baking pan. This ensures your cake won’t stick and will have an even bake.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step helps incorporate air, giving your cake a tender crumb.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully mixed in before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients for a smoother batter.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans to ensure even distribution throughout the cake.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans or pour it into the 9×13-inch pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes (or 35-40 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before icing.
Step 4: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing well between each addition. This prevents lumps and creates a silky texture.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and enough milk to achieve your desired icing consistency. You can adjust the thickness by adding more milk for a thinner icing or less for a thicker one.
Step 5: Frost the Cake
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese icing evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- For extra flair, garnish with additional chopped pecans.
Step 6: Serve
Slice and enjoy this rich and flavorful Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing. This cake combines the nutty flavor of buttered pecans with the creamy sweetness of cream cheese icing, creating a deliciously indulgent dessert.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and gives them a satisfying crunch. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter and even baking.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry ingredients with the wet ingredients, mix just until incorporated. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
