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Butter Pecan Cake is a deliciously rich dessert that combines the buttery flavor of cake with the crunch of pecans. It’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to simple family gatherings. This cake not only tastes great but also fills your kitchen with a warm and inviting smell as it bakes.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Butter Pecan Cake. First, it’s easy to prepare, making it great for bakers of all levels. The combination of butter and pecans gives a unique flavor that many people love. This cake is also versatile; you can enjoy it plain, with cream cheese frosting, or even with a scoop of ice cream!
How to Make Butter Pecan Cake
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Cake
Serve Butter Pecan Cake at room temperature. You can enjoy it on its own, or add frosting for some extra sweetness. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can also elevate the dessert and impress your guests.
How to Store Butter Pecan Cake
To keep Butter Pecan Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing the cake; wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips to Make Butter Pecan Cake
- Make sure your butter is softened properly. This helps in achieving a lighter and fluffier cake.
- Toast the pecans before adding them to the batter for an enhanced nutty flavor.
- Do not overmix the batter once you add flour; mix until ingredients are just combined for the best texture.
Variation
You can add chocolate chips or swap out the pecans for walnuts if you prefer. Adding a layer of cream cheese frosting can also provide a rich contrast to the cake’s flavor.
FAQs
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Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but it may alter the taste slightly. If you do, reduce the salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon. -
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes to curdle before using. -
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day or two in advance and store it. Just make sure to keep it wrapped properly to maintain freshness.

Butter Pecan Cake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Make sure your butter is softened properly.
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt If using salted butter, reduce the salt to 1/4 teaspoon.
- 1 cup buttermilk You can substitute with 1 cup of milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped Toast the pecans for enhanced flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the creamed mixture alternately with buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
Baking
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.