Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing: A Decadent Delight

Indulge in the luscious flavors of our Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing, a dessert that promises to elevate any occasion. This buttery masterpiece, paired with the rich, tangy cream cheese icing, is a match made in heaven, offering a sweet, nutty treat that’s hard to resist.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

This Butter Pecan Cake is the epitome of comfort and indulgence. The combination of toasted pecans and a moist, buttery cake makes it an exceptional dessert for family gatherings, celebrations, or simply as a treat to reward yourself. The cream cheese icing adds just the right amount of tanginess to balance out the sweetness, making every bite a delightful experience.

With its rich flavors and beautiful presentation, this cake stands out as a show-stopping centerpiece on any dessert table. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or enjoying a cozy evening at home, this cake will surely impress your guests and bring joy to your taste buds.

Context/Background

The Butter Pecan Cake is a classic dessert that has its roots in the Southern United States, where pecans are a staple ingredient. The use of pecans in baking dates back centuries, with the nuts providing a distinct flavor and texture that are integral to Southern cuisine. Coupled with the creamy richness of cream cheese icing, this cake is a testament to the delicious blending of flavors that Southern desserts are known for.

Recipe Details

Serves: 12

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, softened (for icing)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Fold in the toasted pecans.
7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
9. For the icing: beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
10. Frost the cooled cake layers with the cream cheese icing and stack them. Decorate with additional toasted pecans if desired.

Tips for Perfect Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

• Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature for the best mixing results.
• Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor, so don’t skip this step!
• Use quality vanilla extract for a more profound flavor profile.
• Allow your cake layers to cool completely before applying the icing to prevent it from melting.

Serving Suggestions

This Butter Pecan Cake is delightful when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee or tea for an irresistible after-dinner treat.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow slices to come to room temperature before serving to enhance the flavors and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is not just a dessert; it’s an experience. Its rich flavors and moist texture make it a must-try for any cake lover. So, gather your ingredients and dive into this delectable creation that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Recipe Notes

• You can substitute walnuts for pecans if desired, though the flavor profile will differ slightly.
• For a lighter cake, consider using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm spice note.