This southern butter pecan layer cake is the definition of rich, nutty Southern comfort.”. This Southern Butter Pecan Layer Cake is the kind of dessert that instantly turns any gathering into a celebration. Soft vanilla cake layers, toasted pecans, and a smooth, rich buttercream come together in a symphony of textures and flavors.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a baby shower, or just a cozy Sunday, this cake captures everything you’d want in a homemade dessert. If you’ve ever tried a cake that tastes like comfort wrapped in sugar, this is it.

For a similarly creamy, indulgent dessert, don’t miss this Lemon Cream Cake Recipe — it’s a reader favorite for good reason.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

2 1/4 cups (280g) cake flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar
4 large egg whites
1 tbsp pure vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Butter Pecan Frosting:

1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, room temperature
3 1/2 cups (440g) powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2–3 tbsp heavy cream
Pinch of salt
Extra toasted pecans for garnish

Tip: Toast the pecans at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, until fragrant.

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Pans

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans or line with parchment paper.

2. Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. Cream the Butter & Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat butter, oil, and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).

4. Add Egg Whites and Vanilla

Beat in egg whites one at a time, mixing well after each.
Stir in vanilla extract.

5. Alternate Dry and Wet

Add the dry mixture in three additions, alternating with buttermilk.
Mix just until combined — don’t overbeat.

6. Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the toasted pecans using a spatula.

7. Bake

Divide batter evenly among the three pans.
Bake for 25–28 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

8. Cool

Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

Looking for another Southern classic? Try this Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe — perfect comfort food.

For the Butter Pecan Frosting

1. Beat the Butter

In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy (2–3 minutes).

2. Add Sugar and Cream

Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla, cream, and salt.
Beat until fluffy and smooth.

3. Assemble

Place first cake layer on a serving plate. Spread frosting on top.
Repeat with second and third layers.
Frost the outside and garnish with chopped pecans.

Tips & Variations

Want more flavor? Brown the butter before making the frosting.
Don’t skip the buttermilk — it’s key to a moist texture.
Short on time? Use two pans instead of three; just increase bake time by 5–7 minutes.
Filling variation: Add cream cheese to your frosting for tang.
For another tangy and creamy dessert, explore this Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake Frappuccino—it makes a dreamy filling too!

Storage

Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 5 days.
Freezer: Wrap layers in plastic and freeze for up to 2 months.

Time & Yield

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 28 minutes
Cooling & Assembly: 30 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 25 minutes
Yields: One 3-layer 8-inch cake (10–12 servings)

Tools Used

3× 8-inch cake pans
Hand or stand mixer
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups & spoons
Cooling racks
Rubber spatula
Offset spatula (optional)

Need a side dish with equally creamy flavor? Try the Creamy Mushroom Soup—pairs beautifully with buttery desserts.

Why This Is the Best Southern Butter Pecan Layer Cake

The Southern Butter Pecan Layer Cake isn’t just a cake — it’s a Southern tradition. From the nutty aroma of toasted pecans to the creamy butter frosting, every bite delivers warmth and joy. It’s an elevated version of vanilla cake that speaks of hospitality and celebration.

It’s no wonder many Southern kitchens pass this recipe down for generations. Want more from this sweet tradition? Add a drizzle of caramel or pair it with coffee for the full experience.

For more expert tips and ideas, this Butter Pecan Cake recipe on AllRecipes is a great reference with thousands of reviews.