Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake with Pecan Frosting

I recently baked this Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake with Pecan Frosting, and I have to say, it’s one of the most indulgent cakes I’ve ever made! The cake is perfectly moist, light, and fluffy, with a rich buttery flavor that’s balanced beautifully by the crunch of toasted pecans. The addition of a pecan-infused frosting takes this cake to the next level, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. It’s perfect for cozy fall gatherings, special occasions, or anytime you want a truly special dessert.

If you’re a fan of butter and pecan flavors, then this cake is an absolute must-try. I’ll walk you through every step of making this indulgent cake, from baking the soft, fluffy layers to preparing the creamy, nutty frosting. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake with Pecan Frosting Is So Irresistible

This Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake is the perfect combination of rich flavors and textures. The buttery cake is soft and light, thanks to the perfect balance of wet and dry ingredients, and the toasted pecans add a delicious crunch and nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.

It’s the perfect cake for any occasion where you want to impress your guests with something special. Plus, the combination of butter, pecans, and vanilla makes it feel like an ultimate comfort dessert.

Ingredients For Butter Pecan Cake with Pecan Frosting

Here’s what you’ll need to make this soft, fluffy butter pecan cake with a rich, nutty frosting:

For the Butter Pecan Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup toasted pecans (chopped)

For the Pecan Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup toasted pecans (chopped)

These ingredients create a buttery, nutty cake with a smooth, creamy frosting that’s sure to be a hit with everyone.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake

Let’s dive into the steps to make this delicious, moist, and fluffy butter pecan cake with pecan frosting!

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to make the cakes easier to remove once baked. Set them aside while you prepare the batter.

2. Toast the Pecans

In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the pecans until they are golden brown and fragrant. Stir frequently to prevent them from burning. Once toasted, set them aside to cool. This step brings out the natural flavors of the pecans and gives them a delicious crunch in the cake and frosting.

3. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures the dry ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the cake batter.

4. Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This will take about 2-3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start with the dry ingredients, add a little milk, mix, and repeat until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Fold in the toasted pecans.

6. Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

7. Make the Pecan Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, make the frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until the frosting is light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream to achieve a smooth consistency. Fold in the chopped toasted pecans.

8. Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place the first cake layer on your serving platter. Spread a generous layer of pecan frosting over the top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. Smooth the frosting with a spatula or get creative with swirls and decorative patterns.

9. Decorate and Serve

You can decorate the top of the cake with extra toasted pecans or even drizzle some caramel sauce for added flavor and a decorative touch. Let the cake sit for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator to allow the frosting to set before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Best Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake

To ensure your Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better texture and easier mixing.
• Toast the pecans: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and gives the cake and frosting a richer taste.
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined to ensure a light, fluffy texture.
• Chill the frosting: If the frosting is too soft to spread easily, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before frosting the cake.

Storing and Freezing Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake

This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake in the fridge overnight and frost it before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost the cake just before serving for the best texture.

Q: Can I use a different type of nut?
A: Yes, you can use pecans, walnuts, or almonds as an alternative to the toasted pecans. Just make sure to toast them for extra flavor!

Q: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. The texture might vary, but it will still be delicious.

Q: How can I make this cake richer?
A: For a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon or two of sour cream to the batter to make the cake even moister and denser.

Why You Should Try This Cake

This Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its soft, buttery texture and nutty, flavorful frosting, it’s an indulgent treat that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just looking to treat yourself, this cake will always be a crowd-pleaser!

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a slice of Moist and Fluffy Butter Pecan Cake with a generous dollop of creamy pecan frosting. It’s rich, decadent, and full of flavor. The combination of butter and pecans gives this cake the ultimate comforting taste, and with just a few simple steps, you can create a show-stopping dessert for any occasion. Happy baking!