Warm your home with the irresistible aroma of this Butter Pecan Cake, a dessert that feels like a cozy hug during the Christmas season. With its rich browned butter, tender layers, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake captures the essence of holiday indulgence. The finely chopped pecans add a delightful crunch, making each bite a festive treat. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply enjoying a quiet evening by the fire, this Butter Pecan Cake is the perfect centerpiece for your Christmas celebration. 🎄🍰🌰
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
- 3 cups (333g) cake flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 ½ cups (354ml) buttermilk, room temperature preferred
- 2 large eggs, room temperature preferred
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (160g) pecan halves, very finely chopped
For the Icing:
- 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup (66g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 ½ cups (562g) powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon heavy cream
- ⅓ cup (35g) pecan halves, very finely chopped, optional
Directions
Brown the Butter:
- Melt butter over medium-low heat. Increase heat and cook until golden brown specks form, then cool completely.
Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round baking pans.
- In a large bowl, whisk together cake flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add the browned butter to the dry ingredients and mix until incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla. Gradually add to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the finely chopped pecans.
- Divide the batter among the prepared pans. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely.
Make the Icing:
- Beat butter, cream cheese, light brown sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, beating until the icing is fluffy.
Assemble the Cake:
- Level the cake layers if necessary.
- Stack the layers with icing between each, then frost the outside of the cake.
- Decorate with chopped pecans and piped frosting swirls, if desired.
Prep Time: 1 hour | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Calories: 975 per serving | Servings: 12
This Butter Pecan Cake is sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday festivities. Enjoy every sweet and nutty bite! 🌰🎄🍰