Introduction
Butter Pecan Layer Cake is a timeless Southern classic celebrated for its rich, buttery crumb and nutty toasted pecans. Finished with a smooth, creamy frosting, this cake is both comforting and refined—perfect for holidays, birthdays, and special gatherings.
Origin
Butter pecan flavors gained popularity in the American South, especially through desserts and ice creams that highlighted the region’s abundant pecan harvests. This layer cake evolved as a show-stopping centerpiece dessert, blending simple ingredients with indulgent technique.
Cultural Significance
Often served at celebrations, church functions, and family reunions, Butter Pecan Layer Cake symbolizes warmth, generosity, and Southern hospitality. It’s a dessert that feels nostalgic yet impressive, passed down through generations.
Ingredients & Quantity
Toasted Pecans
- 1½ cups (180 g) chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Cake Layers
- 2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1¾ cups (350 g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Butter Pecan Frosting
- 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups (480 g) powdered sugar
- ¼ cup (60 ml) heavy cream or milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup toasted pecans (from above)
Optional Additions
- Brown butter in cake or frosting for deeper flavor
- Cream cheese frosting instead of buttercream
- Caramel drizzle between layers
- Extra pecans for garnish
Tips for Success
- Toast pecans until fragrant, not dark
- Cream butter and sugar thoroughly for a fluffy cake
- Level cake layers before frosting
- Chill briefly before slicing for clean cuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round pans.
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet; toast pecans until fragrant. Set aside.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl.
- Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Mix in vanilla.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing just until combined.
- Fold in toasted pecans.
- Divide batter evenly between pans.
- Bake 25–30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Beat frosting ingredients until smooth and fluffy.
- Assemble cake, frosting between layers and over the top. Garnish with pecans.
Description
This cake is tender and buttery with a fine crumb, dotted with crunchy toasted pecans throughout. The frosting is rich yet silky, enhancing the nutty sweetness without overpowering the cake.
Nutritional Information
(Approximate per slice, 12 slices)
- Calories: 520–560 kcal
- Fat: 32 g
- Carbohydrates: 58 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Sugar: 40 g
Conclusion
Butter Pecan Layer Cake is a true Southern treasure—rich, flavorful, and beautifully balanced. It’s a cake that never goes out of style.
Recommendation
Serve with coffee or sweet tea. Ideal for holidays, birthdays, and any celebration where a classic, elegant dessert is called for.
Embracing Timeless Indulgence
This cake celebrates the beauty of simple ingredients elevated with care and tradition. Enjoy each slice slowly and savor the buttery, nutty goodness 🌰🥮✨