Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

Few desserts offer the rich, nutty flavor and indulgent texture of a Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This decadent cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat to brighten any day. The combination of toasted pecans, buttery cake layers, and creamy frosting creates a dessert that’s simply irresistible.

Beyond its delicious taste, this cake also holds historical significance. Butter pecan is a beloved Southern flavor that has been cherished for generations. To learn more about the origins of this flavor, check out this resource. Additionally, the importance of toasting pecans to enhance their flavor is widely recommended by culinary experts, as explained in this guide.

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 salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups chopped pecans (toasted)

 the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2-3 tablespoons milk (adjust for consistency)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup chopped pecans
• ¼ cup caramel sauce (optional)

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread the 1 ½ cups of chopped pecans on a baking sheet.
3. Toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.
4. Allow them to cool while you prepare the cake batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients.
6. Stir in the vanilla extract and toasted pecans.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool completely before adding frosting.

Step 3: Prepare the Frosting

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract and enough milk to achieve the desired consistency.

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

1. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
2. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
3. Slice and serve for a deliciously sweet experience!

1. Why Toasting Pecans Matters

Toasting pecans before adding them to the cake enhances their natural oils and deepens their nutty flavor. Skipping this step can result in a less intense taste.

2. Using High-Quality Butter

Since butter is a key ingredient in this cake, using high-quality unsalted butter makes a significant difference in taste. European butter, known for its higher butterfat content, adds an extra layer of richness.

3. Perfecting the Frosting Consistency

If your cream cheese frosting is too thick, gradually add a few tablespoons of milk. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar until you reach the perfect spreadable consistency.

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