Butter Pecan Layer Cake

This Butter Pecan Layer Cake is a dream for any dessert lover, especially those who crave rich, nutty flavors. The buttery cake layers are studded with toasted pecans, giving it an irresistible crunch, while a creamy, decadent butter pecan frosting brings the whole creation together.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 4 large eggs
  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped

For the Butter Pecan Frosting:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • ¼ cup heavy cream (or as needed)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup pecans, toasted and finely chopped

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cake Layers:
    • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
    • In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    • Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
    • Stir in the vanilla extract and toasted pecans.
    • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
    • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  2. Make the Butter Pecan Frosting:
    • In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
    • Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth.
    • Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream, continuing to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream if needed.
    • Fold in the toasted, finely chopped pecans.
  3. Assemble the Cake:
    • Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of frosting on top.
    • Repeat with the second and third layers, frosting the top and sides of the cake.
    • Garnish with additional pecans if desired.
  4. Chill & Serve:
    • Refrigerate the cake for about 30 minutes to set the frosting. Slice and enjoy!

This Butter Pecan Layer Cake is sure to become a family favorite with its nutty, buttery goodness!

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