Recipe for Butter Pecan Layer Cake

Indulging in the Richness of Butter Pecan Layer Cake

There are few desserts as comforting and indulgent as a well-made cake.

Among the vast array of cake options, the Butter Pecan Layer Cake stands out as a celebration of richness and flavor.

This cake combines the buttery, nutty taste of toasted pecans with a moist, tender crumb, all enveloped in a luscious cream cheese frosting.

It’s the kind of dessert that can turn an ordinary day into something special, or elevate a celebration to new heights.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just someone who appreciates a good homemade treat, this Butter Pecan Layer Cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Recipe for Butter Pecan Layer Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

2 cups granulated sugar

4 large eggs

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 tablespoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup whole milk

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Frosting:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened

8 oz cream cheese, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Stir in the vanilla extract and the toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

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 of thecakes comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting:

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fully incorporated.

Stir in the vanilla extract.

If the frosting is too thick, you can add a tablespoon of milk at a time until you reach the desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake:

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand.

Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top of the first layer.

Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the frosting process.

Add the final cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.

If desired, press chopped pecans into the sides of the cake for extra flavor and texture.

Serve:

Slice the cake and serve it at room temperature. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, but bring them to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Conclusion

The Butter Pecan Layer Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of buttery richness, nutty crunch, and creamy sweetness, making it an ideal choice for celebrations or a special treat.

The toasted pecans add a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender layers of cake and the smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting.

Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party, holiday gathering, or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy.

So why not take some time to bake this delightful cake and enjoy the warmth and comfort that it brings? It’s a treat that everyone will love and remember.