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Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Southern Delight
Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful Southern classic that combines the rich,
buttery flavor of pecans with the creamy tang of cream cheese frosting. This cake is perfect for special
occasions, holidays, or anytime you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly
special. Here’s how to make this delicious dessert.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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16 oz cream cheese, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar
until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the
next.
Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, combine the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
Combine Mixtures: Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture alternately with the buttermilk
mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
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Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans.
Bake: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30
minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool
completely.
Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Cream Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until
smooth and creamy.
Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth and well combined.
Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
Level Cakes: If necessary, level the tops of the cakes with a serrated knife to ensure even layers.
Frosting Layers: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of
cream cheese frosting over the top. Repeat with the second layer and more frosting.
Top Layer: Place the third cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the
remaining frosting.
Decorate: Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the top of the cake and press them lightly into the sides if
desired.
Step 4: Serve
Chill: For best results, refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the frosting to
set.
Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cake and enjoy the rich, buttery pecan flavor combined with the creamy,
tangy frosting.
Tips for Success
Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor. Simply spread them on a baking sheet
and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that the butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room
temperature before beginning. This helps create a smooth batter and frosting.
Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1
tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Variations
Chocolate Chips: Add a cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the frosted cake for an extra decadent touch.
Layer Variation: Try making this cake as a sheet cake or cupcakes if you prefer different formats.
Storage
Refrigerate: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room
temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freeze: You can also freeze the cake (whole or in slices) for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic
wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Conclusion
Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful and decadent dessert that brings a taste
of Southern comfort to your table. Its combination of buttery pecans and rich cream cheese frosting
makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Follow this recipe to create a cake that’s sure to impress
and satisfy. Enjoy every delicious bite!