Decadent Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting to Savor

Indulge in moist Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting—sweet, nutty, and irresistibly smooth. This luscious cake combines rich buttery flavors with crunchy pecans and is topped off with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself after a long day, this Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to become your go-to dessert because of its perfect balance of texture and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Signature flavor combination: The golden butter and toasted pecans create a warm, nutty base that feels comforting in every bite.
• Moist and tender crumb: This cake stays soft and moist, making it perfect for serving fresh or even a day later.
• Rich cream cheese frosting: The frosting adds a tangy sweetness that cuts through the rich cake, elevating every mouthful.
• Easy to customize: This recipe is versatile enough to suit your taste, whether adding vanilla, cinnamon, or extra nuts.
• Perfect for any occasion: From birthday parties to cozy gatherings, this cake fits right in and impresses every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient plays a key role in bringing out the rich, buttery texture and nutty flavor of this cake. Using simple, quality components ensures the best taste and perfect consistency for your Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

• Unsalted butter: Provides a creamy richness that forms the foundation of this cake’s buttery flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping to create a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a subtle caramel note that pairs beautifully with pecans.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure and moisture.
• All-purpose flour: The bulk of the batter, giving the cake its light but sturdy texture.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents essential for making the cake rise perfectly fluffy.
• Salt: Enhances and balances the sweetness while intensifying the flavors.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic note that rounds out the flavor profile.
• Toasted pecans: Provide crunch and a deep nutty flavor, toasted just right to develop their aroma.
• Cream cheese: The star of the frosting, offering tanginess and silkiness to complement the cake.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting for that irresistible smooth texture.
• Heavy cream or milk: Adds creaminess and helps adjust the frosting consistency perfectly.

Variations for Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Feel free to get creative with this Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe. It adapts easily depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences, making it a versatile dessert everyone can enjoy.

• Add cinnamon and nutmeg: For a cozy twist, incorporate warm spices into the batter to bring out autumnal vibes.
• Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds: Customize the nutty crunch with your preferred nut variety for a unique flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour blends to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities.
• Use brown butter: Replace regular butter with browned butter to add a caramelized depth.
• Drizzle caramel sauce: For extra indulgence, top the frosted cake with a rich homemade caramel drizzle.

How to Make Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prepare the Toasted Pecans

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for 8-10 minutes until fragrant and slightly browned. Allow them to cool, then roughly chop for a perfect nutty texture in the cake.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter along with granulated and brown sugar on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This process incorporates air to yield a tender, moist cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Follow with the vanilla extract for aromatic warmth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Then, gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.

Step 5: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold the toasted pecans into the batter, evenly distributing the nuts for delightful crunch in every slice.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9-inch round cake pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Step 7: Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until fluffy. Add heavy cream or milk one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.

Step 8: Frost the Cake

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula or knife. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top.

Pro Tips for Making Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensures everything blends smoothly and the cake rises evenly.
• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too long can develop gluten, resulting in a dense cake instead of a tender crumb.
• Toast pecans gently: Watch closely to prevent burning, as pecans can become bitter if over-toasted.
• Chill the frosting if too soft: If your cream cheese frosting is too runny, refrigerate it briefly to firm up before spreading.
• Use an offset spatula for frosting: This tool helps achieve a smooth, even layer with less effort.

How to Serve Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Garnishes

Freshly chopped pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon can add a rustic charm and enhance the nutty aroma. For a festive touch, edible gold flakes or a caramel drizzle create stunning visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, fresh seasonal berries, or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the richness and add refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into petite squares or cut with a fluted edge for a sophisticated look. Serve individual portions in clear glass cups layered with frosting and pecans for an elegant dessert presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover cake covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain moisture and freshness without drying out the cream cheese frosting.

Freezing

Wrap the unfrosted cake layers well in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before frosting and serving for best results.

Reheating

Bring leftover cake to room temperature before eating. If preferred warm, heat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to restore softness without melting the frosting.

FAQs

Can I use chopped nuts other than pecans in this cake?

Absolutely! Walnuts, almonds, or even macadamia nuts can be substituted to offer different textures and flavors while still complimenting the cake’s buttery base.

Is it necessary to toast the pecans before adding them?

Toasting pecans enhances their natural flavor and adds a satisfying crunch, but if you’re short on time, you can add them raw — the texture just won’t be as pronounced.

How long can I keep Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting in the fridge?

When properly stored in an airtight container, the cake will stay fresh for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy multiple servings without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

With substitutions like nondairy butter and cream cheese alternatives, you can create a dairy-free version, though the texture and flavor may differ slightly from the original.

What is the best way to achieve smooth cream cheese frosting?

Ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature and beat them thoroughly before adding powdered sugar to avoid lumpiness and achieve a silky consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings together nostalgic flavors and comforting textures in one delectable package. Whether for a holiday, a birthday, or just because, baking and sharing this cake will fill your kitchen with warmth and smiles. Go ahead and bake it today—you won’t regret having a slice (or two) of this sweet, nutty delight!

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