Butter Pecan Cake

Craving something rich, nutty, and irresistibly homemade? This Butter Pecan Cake blends buttery layers with toasted pecans for a sweet Southern treat that’s ready in just an hour. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, potluck, or a cozy Sunday dessert, this easy pecan dessert delivers flavor and comfort in every bite. Let’s bring some old-fashioned charm to your kitchen—one slice at a time.

Key Benefits

Butter Pecan Cake: Quick & Easy – Ready in Just 1 Hour

If time isn’t on your side but dessert still needs to impress, this Butter Pecan Cake has you covered. From prepping the batter to cooling the finished layers, everything wraps up in about 60 minutes. That makes it the perfect go-to when you need something homemade, warm, and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

You’ll appreciate how the simple steps and familiar ingredients come together seamlessly:

• No need for special tools — just a bowl, a mixer, and a cake pan.
• Short prep time: Toast pecans while the butter softens.
• One-bowl mixing means fewer dishes later.
• Fast cooling and easy frosting make it ideal for last-minute gatherings.

Whether you’re baking on a busy weeknight or prepping a dessert before guests arrive, you’ll love how quick and reliable this recipe is.

Butter Pecan Cake: Rich, Buttery Flavor with Crunchy Pecans

What sets this Butter Pecan Cake apart? It’s the buttery-rich crumb and the toasted pecans that give every bite depth and crunch. The flavor profile strikes a balance between sweet and nutty, making it more than just a dessert—it’s a memory in the making.

Here’s what delivers that standout flavor:

• Brown sugar and unsalted butter bring warmth and richness.
• Toasted pecans add a caramelized, nutty bite.
• A splash of pure vanilla extract lifts the flavor, tying everything together.

You’ll notice how each component enhances the others, offering a taste that’s comforting, classic, and always crowd-pleasing.

Butter Pecan Cake: Perfect for Holidays, Potlucks, or Sunday Dinner

Looking for something that fits every occasion? This cake does it all. From festive holiday tables to casual Sunday gatherings, Butter Pecan Cake brings people together with its inviting aroma and timeless taste.

Why it works for all these moments:

• The look is rustic yet elegant — just right for potlucks or dinner parties.
• It pairs beautifully with seasonal beverages like hot cider or coffee.
• Its nostalgic flavor makes it ideal for holidays like Mother’s Day.

This cake has that “made-from-scratch” charm without the stress, making it a favorite for both weekday treats and weekend celebrations.

Butter Pecan Cake: Beginner-Friendly with No-Fail Results

Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is designed for confidence and success. It uses familiar steps and pantry staples, guiding you through each part clearly.

Here’s why beginners love it:

• Straightforward ingredient list with nothing fancy or hard to find.
• Simple mixing techniques — no tricky folding or complex layering.
• Built-in flexibility with frosting and filling options.

You’re not just following instructions — you’re learning how ingredients work together. By the end, you’ll have a golden, moist cake layered with crunchy pecans and confidence in your baking skills.

Ingredients

When you’re preparing this Butter Pecan Cake, gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward a rich, moist dessert with layers of buttery flavor and toasted pecan crunch. Below, you’ll find everything you need — from basic baking staples to optional frosting variations — all arranged for quick reference and smooth prep. Let’s break it down together.

Cake Batter Essentials

This is where the magic starts. Each ingredient in your cake batter adds structure, flavor, or moisture. Here’s what you’ll need to create a soft, tender crumb with that signature buttery richness.

Pro Tip: Always sift your dry ingredients to ensure a smooth batter, and cream the butter and sugar until fluffy for the best texture.

Toasted Pecan Filling

Pecans aren’t just a garnish—they’re the heart of this recipe. Toasting them enhances their nuttiness and adds a satisfying crunch that balances the soft cake layers.

How to Toast Pecans:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread pecans on a baking sheet in a single layer.
3. Bake for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
4. Let them cool completely before folding into the batter or using between layers.

Why It Matters: Toasting brings out natural oils in the pecans, deepening flavor and improving crunch. Skipping this step results in a milder, less dynamic cake.

Butter Pecan Frosting Options

The right frosting completes your cake. Whether you want something rich and creamy or slightly tangy, these options provide the perfect finishing touch.

Custom Touch: Fold in crushed toasted pecans for texture, or drizzle with caramel for extra decadence.

Tools You’ll Need

To bring your Butter Pecan Cake to life, the right tools make all the difference. These basics help streamline your process, ensuring consistent results.

• Hand or stand mixer: used to cream butter and sugar to a smooth, fluffy consistency
• Mixing bowls: at least two (one for wet, one for dry ingredients)
• 9-inch round cake pans: greased and floured or lined with parchment
• Spatula and whisk: for folding and scraping batter
• Cooling rack: allows cakes to cool evenly before frosting

Optional but Helpful:

• Offset spatula: for smooth, even frosting
• Cake turntable: makes decorating easier

With all your ingredients and tools ready, you’re well on your way to baking a cake that’s rich, reliable, and ready to share.

Instructions

Crafting a perfect Butter Pecan Cake starts with understanding each stage of the process. From prepping to decorating, each step builds flavor, texture, and visual appeal. Here’s your complete guide, broken down with tips and tools to help you get bakery-style results at home.

Prepping the Ingredients

Before you mix anything, take a few minutes to prepare. This makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

• Toast the pecans
  Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet.
  Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6–8 minutes.
  Stir halfway through for even color.
  Let them cool before using.
• Soften the butter
  Take butter out of the fridge at least 1 hour ahead.
  It should press gently with a finger.
  This helps it cream better with sugar.
• Prep your cake pans
  Use two 9-inch round pans.
  Grease and line with parchment.
  Light dusting of flour prevents sticking.

Why This Matters: Proper preparation ensures the ingredients combine smoothly and your cakes release cleanly from the pans, saving you time and stress later.

Making the Cake Batter

Now that everything’s ready, it’s time to build the base of your Butter Pecan Cake. Focus on incorporating air and structure while preserving a moist texture.

1. Cream butter and sugar
   Beat together until light and fluffy.
   This can take about 4–5 minutes.
   Use medium speed with a stand mixer.
2. Add eggs one at a time
   Mix in each egg fully before adding the next.
   This step helps emulsify the batter.
3. Stir in vanilla extract
4. Mix dry ingredients
   In another bowl, whisk cake flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternate flour and buttermilk
   Add flour in three parts and buttermilk in two.
   Begin and end with the dry mix.
   Don’t overmix—stop when combined.
6. Fold in toasted pecans
   Use a spatula.
   Gentle folding keeps the batter airy.

Quick Tip: Scrape the bowl often to ensure everything mixes evenly, especially at the bottom.

Baking and Cooling

With your batter ready, it’s time to bake. This stage determines texture, rise, and structure.

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
  Don’t skip this—consistent heat matters.
• Divide batter evenly
  Use a kitchen scale or measuring cup.
• Bake for 30–35 minutes
  Check doneness at 30 minutes.
  Insert a toothpick in the center.
  It should come out clean or with a few crumbs.
• Cool the cakes
  Let them rest in pans for 10 minutes.
  Then transfer to a cooling rack.
  Cool completely before frosting.

Why Cooling Matters: Warm cakes will melt the frosting, ruining the texture and finish.

Frosting and Decorating

Your cake layers are cooled and ready for the final touch. Choose a frosting that suits your taste—and don’t forget the garnish.

• Choose your frosting
  Use buttercream for a sweet, classic feel.
  Go with cream cheese for a tangy contrast.
• Apply the frosting
  Place one cake layer on a stand.
  Spread frosting evenly on top.
  Layer the second cake on top and spread frosting to cover the entire surface. Use an offset spatula for clean edges.
• Decorate with extra pecans
  Press chopped or halved pecans into the sides or top.
  You can also drizzle caramel for extra flair.

Presentation Tip: Chill your frosted cake for 20 minutes before slicing. This firms up the frosting, making cleaner cuts.

With each step, your Butter Pecan Cake transforms into a rich, flavorful dessert that looks as good as it tastes. Whether you’re baking for a gathering or treating yourself, this guide helps you bake with confidence.

Pro Tips and Variations

When it comes to making your Butter Pecan Cake truly unforgettable, the little details matter. Whether you’re aiming for a moister crumb, exploring new flavor twists, or planning ahead for a busy celebration, this section gives you practical, flexible ideas to level up your baking.

How to Make It Extra Moist

Moisture is key in a well-loved Butter Pecan Cake. Here’s how to keep yours from drying out, bite after bite:

• Use room-temperature buttermilk
  Cold ingredients don’t mix as smoothly.
  Let your buttermilk sit out for 30–45 minutes.
  This helps it blend evenly with the batter.
• Avoid overmixing the batter
  Mix until the dry ingredients disappear.
  Overworking the flour develops gluten.
  That makes the cake dense or dry.
• Don’t skip the brown sugar
  It adds moisture and depth.
  The molasses in brown sugar retains more liquid than white sugar.
• Keep an eye on baking time
  Start testing at the 30-minute mark.
  Overbaking is one of the top causes of dryness.
  If the toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.

Insider Tip: If your kitchen is dry, place a pan of water on the lower oven rack. The steam helps maintain moisture during baking.

Flavor Variations to Try

Want to put your personal spin on this Butter Pecan Cake? These flavor variations are easy to incorporate and offer new layers of richness:

• Cinnamon spice
  Mix ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon into the dry ingredients.
  It brings warmth that complements the pecans beautifully.
• Maple syrup
  Swap out 2 tablespoons of the brown sugar for maple syrup.
  This boosts sweetness and aroma.
  Just reduce buttermilk slightly to balance the moisture.
• Caramel swirl
  Drop spoonfuls of caramel sauce over the batter.
  Use a knife to gently swirl before baking.
  It creates sweet ribbons throughout each slice.
• Toasted coconut
  Sprinkle some on top before baking.
  You’ll get a bit of crunch with tropical undertones.

Try This: Use maple extract in place of vanilla for a bold, bakery-style upgrade.

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

Planning ahead? This Butter Pecan Cake freezes well and holds up nicely for advance prep. Here’s how to store it right:

• Bake the layers ahead
  Cool completely on a wire rack.
  Then wrap each layer in plastic wrap.
  Follow with a layer of foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 2 months
  Place wrapped layers in a freezer-safe bag.
  Thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
• Make frosting in advance
  Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
  Let it come to room temperature and re-whip before spreading.
• Fully assembled cake?
  Chill in the fridge until the frosting firms up.
  Then wrap the entire cake and freeze.
  Unwrap before thawing in the fridge.

Cupcake or Bundt Cake Versions

Sometimes you need a more portable or visually dramatic dessert. Here’s how to adapt this Butter Pecan Cake into other formats:

For Cupcakes:

• Use the same batter.
• Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
• Fill each about 2/3 full.
• Bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.
• Cool fully before frosting.

For Bundt Cake:

• Grease a 10- or 12-cup Bundt pan well.
• Pour in all the batter.
• Bake at 350°F for 40–50 minutes.
• Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes.
• Then turn out onto a rack.

Presentation Tip: For Bundt cakes, drizzle with a maple glaze instead of full frosting. It highlights the ridges beautifully.

Mastering these tips and variations lets you make the Butter Pecan Cake your own. Whether you go classic, add creative flavors, or prep it weeks ahead, each version offers something uniquely delicious.

Have you tried a new twist on this cake? Drop your favorite variation in the comments to inspire other bakers.

Serving Suggestions

Knowing when and how to serve your Butter Pecan Cake can turn a great dessert into a memorable experience. Whether you’re celebrating with family or simply treating yourself, the right pairing and presentation elevate every bite. Here’s how to serve this cake with style and purpose.

Best Occasions for Butter Pecan Cake

This cake isn’t just sweet—it’s special. Its deep, nutty flavor and tender crumb make it perfect for occasions that call for comfort and a touch of elegance. Here are some of the best times to bring it to the table:

• Birthday Celebrations
  Especially for those who prefer rich, grown-up flavors over classic vanilla or chocolate.
• Sunday Dinners
  When family gathers, a homemade dessert like this ends the meal on a comforting note.
• Holiday Potlucks
  Slice it into smaller squares.
  It holds up well at room temperature and travels easily.
• Fall or Winter Gatherings
  The toasted pecans and buttery crumb match colder weather flavors.

Insider Tip: Bake it a day ahead for events. The flavors settle overnight and become even more intense.

Pairing with Drinks

Your Butter Pecan Cake deserves a drink that enhances its richness without overpowering it. These thoughtful pairings balance the sweet, nutty tones in every slice.

Quick Pairing Idea: Warm your drink slightly. A hot beverage makes each bite melt more gently on the tongue.

How to Plate It Like a Pro

Plating matters. With a few thoughtful touches, you can make your Butter Pecan Cake look bakery-worthy, even if it’s served at home.

1. Use a sharp serrated knife
   Cut using gentle sawing motions.
   This preserves the cake’s shape and avoids crumbling.
2. Warm the knife blade
   Dip it in hot water and wipe dry.
   This makes cleaner cuts through frosting and layers.
3. Serve on a light-colored plate
   Let the golden cake and pecans stand out.
   White or pastel ceramic plates work best.
4. Add a drizzle of caramel or maple glaze
   Just a thin line across the plate or over the slice.
   It enhances both flavor and visual appeal.
5. Garnish thoughtfully
   A few toasted pecan halves, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a tiny mint leaf add refinement without effort.

Presentation Tip: If serving for a formal event, cut even portions ahead of time. Place each slice on its own plate with garnish ready.

With the right serving approach, your Butter Pecan Cake becomes more than dessert—it becomes a talking point. Whether you’re hosting or gifting, taking that extra step in plating or pairing helps your cake leave a lasting impression.

Looking for more tips or unique serving ideas? Share your presentation tricks in the comments to inspire other bakers.

Conclusion

In just about an hour, you can create a Butter Pecan Cake that bursts with rich, buttery flavor and a delightful crunch from toasted pecans. This cake combines simple ingredients with thoughtful technique to deliver a comforting treat that feels both indulgent and homemade. Whether you’re baking for a casual afternoon or a special celebration, its warm, nutty aroma and tender crumb will bring joy to every bite. Easy to prepare yet impressive to serve, this cake is a perfect way to share moments of sweetness and connection with family and friends.

Butter Pecan Cake

Lucas

Discover the rich and moist Butter Pecan Cake recipe, ready in just 1 hour. Perfect forholidays or everyday treats. Easy, flavorful, and sure to impress.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

• Stand mixer or hand mixer for creaming butter and sugar
• Mixing bowls at least two (one for wet, one for dry ingredients)
• 9-inch round cake pans greased and floured or lined with parchment
• Spatula and whisk for folding and scraping batter
• Cooling rack allows cakes to cool evenly before frosting
• Optional but Helpful:
• Offset spatula for smooth, even frosting
• Cake turntable makes decorating easier

Ingredients

  

• 2 ½ cups cake flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar packed
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk room temperature
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups chopped pecans toasted

For the Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Additional toasted pecans for garnish

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
• Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, cream softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
• Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
• Alternately add cake flour and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
• Fold in toasted pecans gently.
• Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
• For frosting, beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then heavy cream and vanilla. Beat until fluffy.
• Frost cooled cakes and garnish with extra toasted pecans. Serve and enjoy.

Notes

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 85mg
• Sodium: 210mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 28g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 21g
• Protein: 4g

Keyword Butter Pecan Cake, Easy Cake, Holiday Dessert, Pecan Cake Recipe

FAQs