Butter Pecan Cake

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. 🎄🍰🌰

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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:

1. Melt butter over medium-low heat. Increase heat and cook until golden brown specks form, then cool completely.

Prepare the Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round baking pans.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together cake flour, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the browned butter to the dry ingredients and mix until incorporated.
4. 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.
5. 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:

1. Beat butter, cream cheese, light brown sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and heavy cream, beating until the icing is fluffy.

Assemble the Cake:

1. Level the cake layers if necessary.
2. Stack the layers with icing between each, then frost the outside of the cake.
3. 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

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This Butter Pecan Cake is sure to bring joy and warmth to your holiday festivities. Enjoy every sweet and nutty bite! 🌰🎄🍰

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