Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the Butter Pecan Frosting:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Toast the Pecans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Cake:
- In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until it’s smooth and creamy.
- Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Finally, fold in the toasted pecans.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- Divide the cake batter evenly between the pans.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
4. Prepare the Butter Pecan Frosting:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the chopped pecans and cook, stirring frequently, until they are lightly toasted.
- Remove from heat and let it cool.
- In a mixing bowl, beat the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth and creamy frosting.
- Stir in the toasted pecans.
5. Frost the Cake:
- Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate.
- Spread a layer of the butter pecan frosting on top.
- Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
- If desired, garnish the cake with additional chopped pecans.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Slice and serve your delectable Butter Pecan Cake. It’s perfect for any special occasion or as a delightful treat. Enjoy!
This cake is a real treat, and the combination of butter, pecans, and a rich frosting makes it absolutely delicious.