Butter Pecan Cake: 5 Easy Steps to Bake Like a Pro

The aroma of toasted pecans wafting through my grandma’s kitchen is a memory etched in my heart. Every holiday season, she’d bake her signature Butter Pecan Cake, and the entire family would gather around, sneaking bites before it even cooled. That warm, nutty flavor still brings comfort like no other.

But let’s face it most online Butter Pecan Cake recipes are either too complicated or miss that soulful touch. That’s why I’m sharing my foolproof, flavor-packed Butter Pecan Cake recipe that anyone can bake like a pro even if you’re just starting. This cake isn’t just delicious; it’s moist, buttery, and bursting with toasted pecan crunch in every bite.

Whether you’re craving a comforting Southern dessert or looking to impress guests without breaking a sweat, this Butter Pecan Cake delivers. Plus, it’s easy to customize for gluten-free or dairy-free needs. Let’s dive into the goodness!

Ingredients Breakdown & Substitutions

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this rich and nutty Butter Pecan Cake:

• Butter (1 cup, unsalted) : Gives that creamy base. Substitute: Vegan butter for dairy-free.
• Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups) : Sweetens the cake just right.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup) : Adds a caramel depth.
• Eggs (4 large) : Helps bind and structure.
• All-purpose flour (2 1/2 cups) : Classic choice. Substitute: Gluten-free blend.
• Baking powder (2 tsp) : For a nice rise.
• Salt (1/2 tsp) : Balances the sweetness.
• Whole milk (1 cup) : Moisture and richness. Substitute: Almond or oat milk.
• Vanilla extract (2 tsp) : Enhances the flavor.
• Chopped pecans (1 1/2 cups, toasted) : The star of the show!

To toast pecans: Place them on a baking sheet at 350°F for 7:8 minutes, until fragrant.

Where to buy:

Most grocery stores or online retailers carry quality pecans. For freshness, opt for local farmer markets.

Step-by-Step Instructions with Expert Tips

Let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps to make your Butter Pecan Cake flawless every time.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans.
2. Cream the butter and sugars in a large bowl until light and fluffy (3:4 minutes).
   • Pro Tip: Room-temperature butter works best for a smooth mix.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternate adding dry mix and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with flour.
   • Troubleshooting: If batter is too thick, add 2 tbsp milk.
6. Stir in vanilla and toasted pecans.
7. Divide the batter between the pans and bake for 30:35 minutes.
   • Check with a toothpick at 30 minutes. It should come out clean.
8. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.
9. Frost as desired once fully cooled. Cream cheese frosting or browned butter glaze are amazing choices!

Why Butter Pecan Cake Recipe Is a Must Try

• Beginner-friendly: Simple steps, no fancy equipment.
• Quick prep: Ready in under an hour.
• Rich flavor: Toasted pecans + buttery cake = perfection.
• Customizable: Gluten-free, dairy-free options included.
• Great for all occasions: Holidays, birthdays, or cozy nights in.
• Southern classic: True to tradition with a modern ease.

Storage, Make-Ahead & Freezing Tips

Storage:

• Room temp: Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
• Fridge: 4:5 days (tightly wrapped).

Freezing:

• Freeze unfrosted layers wrapped in plastic + foil for up to 3 months.
• Thaw at room temp overnight before frosting.

Make-Ahead:

• Bake layers a day before and frost the next day for best results.
• Leftovers? Use crumbled slices for cake parfaits or trifles!

Creative Variations & Serving Ideas

Get inspired with these fun twists on your Butter Pecan Cake:

• Add a swirl of caramel sauce to the batter before baking.
• Mix in chocolate chips for a richer taste.
• Top with maple cream cheese frosting for fall vibes.
• Serve with vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee.
• Mini cupcakes version for party platters.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

Serving size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)

• Nutrition info calculated via USDA database and recipe software. May vary based on ingredients used.

Expert Tips

• Always toast your pecans. It brings out their best flavor.
• Use a cake strip or bake-even strips around pans for level layers.
• Measure flour with the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense texture.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
• Use real butter. Margarine just won’t cut it for flavor.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make Butter Pecan Cake ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the layers a day before, store covered, and frost the next day. You can also freeze them up to 3 months.

Q2: What frosting pairs best with Butter Pecan Cake?

Cream cheese frosting is a classic, but a browned butter glaze or maple buttercream also elevates the flavor beautifully.

Q3: Can I make this gluten-free or dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and plant-based milk + butter for a delicious allergen-friendly version.

Conclusion: Let’s Get Baking!

There’s something deeply comforting about a slice of Butter Pecan Cake. Whether you’re baking for a special event or just because it’s sure to bring smiles. This easy 5-step method proves that great baking doesn’t require fancy skills or ingredients.

Have you tried this recipe? Share your experience in the comments! What topping did you choose? Want more cozy Southern bakes? Check out my Pineapple Cake or Baklava Cheesecake.

Don’t forget to subscribe for more easy, delicious Desserts and follow us on Pinterest @TidbitRecipe for more homestyle baking joy!

Butter Pecan Cake

This Southern-style Butter Pecan Cake is a moist, rich dessert loaded with toasted pecans. Perfect for holidays and special celebrations, it’s easy to make and sure to impress.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 35 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Servings 12 slices

Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients

  

• butter
• sugar
• eggs
• all-purpose flour
• milk
• vanilla extract
• toasted pecans
• baking powder
• salt

Instructions

 

• Preheat oven and prepare pans.
• Cream butter and sugars, add eggs.
• Mix dry ingredients in a separate bowl.
• Combine wet and dry ingredients with milk alternately.
• Fold in vanilla and toasted pecans.
• Divide into pans and bake for 30–35 minutes.
• Let cool completely before frosting.

Notes

Toasting the pecans in advance brings out their rich, nutty flavor. This cake is highly customizable, try swapping in alternative flours or dairy-free milk if needed.

Keyword Butter Pecan Cake, Christmas dessert, easy pecan cake, holiday baking, homemade cake, Southern dessert, Thanksgiving cake