Butter Pecan Cake
Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of butter and pecans. Its soft and moist texture makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a birthday party, or just a sweet treat for yourself. The cake has a wonderful nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Butter Pecan Cake is a great choice because it’s simple and delicious. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are straightforward. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser! With its unique taste and appealing texture, everyone at your gathering will love a slice of this cake. Baking this cake at home fills your kitchen with a warm and inviting aroma, making it an enjoyable experience.
How to Make Butter Pecan Cake
Making Butter Pecan Cake is easy and fun. Follow these steps to create a delicious baked treat.
Ingredients:
- 1-1/4 cups butter, softened, divided
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup sugar
- 3 cups flour
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan.
- In a bowl, cream 1 cup of softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk.
- Stir in vanilla and chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before serving.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Cake
Butter Pecan Cake can be served in many ways. You can enjoy it plain or add a dusting of powdered sugar for extra sweetness. It pairs nicely with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. For a festive touch, top it with more chopped pecans or serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce.
How to Store Butter Pecan Cake
To store your Butter Pecan Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to three months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Tips to Make Butter Pecan Cake
- Ensure your butter is softened to room temperature for easy creaming with sugar.
- Do not overmix the batter once you add the flour to keep the cake tender.
- Toast pecans lightly before adding them to the batter for a richer flavor.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before cutting to avoid crumbling.
Variation
You can easily make variations of this Butter Pecan Cake by adding chocolate chips or even swapping out pecans for walnuts. If you prefer a sweeter cake, feel free to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
FAQs
1. Can I use unsalted butter instead of regular butter?
Yes, you can use unsalted butter. Just be sure to add a pinch of salt to the recipe if you do.
2. How can I tell when the cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You can also check for a golden-brown color on the top.
3. Is it okay to use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Enjoy baking and savoring your Butter Pecan Cake!