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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!