Butter Pecan Layer Cake
This Butter Pecan Layer Cake is a delightful southern cake recipe perfect for celebrations, featuring moist cake layers and rich buttercream frosting.
Equipment
- 1 9-inch round cake pan greased and floured
- 1 electric mixer
- 1 Mixing Bowl large
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
Add-ins
- 1 cup chopped pecans toasted
Buttercream Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans toasted
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Serving
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread an even layer of buttercream frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and spread frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
Storage
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, freeze wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Notes
Pro Tips: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Toast pecans at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for enhanced flavor. If the frosting is too thick, add more cream; if too thin, add more powdered sugar. Use whole pecans and edible gold leaf for decoration.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute buttermilk with a mix of milk and lemon juice if unavailable.
How to Serve: Pair with cold milk or a warm cup of coffee.
Storage & Freshness: Store at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for a week. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare cake layers a day in advance and refrigerate them before frosting.
Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute buttermilk with a mix of milk and lemon juice if unavailable.
How to Serve: Pair with cold milk or a warm cup of coffee.
Storage & Freshness: Store at room temperature for 3 days or refrigerate for a week. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare cake layers a day in advance and refrigerate them before frosting.