Indulging in a slice of Southern Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake is like experiencing a delightful blend of rich flavors and comforting textures. This cake stands out in dessert gatherings, its moist and buttery nature paired with the crunchy pecans offers an unforgettable taste. Perfect for various occasions such as holidays, birthdays, or merely a cozy afternoon treat with friends, this cake effortlessly elevates any gathering. The combination of the creamy vanilla frosting and the toasted pecans on top makes this cake not just a dessert, but a centerpiece.
The charm of this Southern delicacy comes from its simplicity. With just a few ingredients, you can create a cake that is begging to be shared. With every bite, you’ll experience the fluffy texture of the cake combined with the sweetness of the frosting, making it hard to resist. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen while this cake bakes! It’s one of those recipes that guarantees smiles at the table and leaves a lasting impression. Embrace the joy of baking and delight your loved ones with this irresistible Southern Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake
- Flavorful Delight: A rich cake that beautifully combines vanilla and butter with the crunchy goodness of toasted pecans.
- Moist Texture: The secret to its irresistible nature lies in the three layers of moist cake, ensuring each slice is soft and flavorful.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party, holiday gathering, or just a weekend treat, this cake suits them all.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps, even beginner bakers can recreate this delightful cake without any hassle.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into baking this Southern Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen well. Ensure your workspace is clean, and gather all the ingredients and tools required. You’ll need three 8-inch round cake pans, a large mixing bowl, a whisk for incorporating the dry ingredients, and an electric mixer or a sturdy hand whisk for beating the butter and sugar. A spatula will come in handy for folding in the pecans and spreading the frosting evenly. Prepare by greasing and flouring your cake pans thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ cups chopped toasted pecans
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (for frosting)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk (for drizzle)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease and flour your three 8-inch round cake pans. Preparing these pans correctly is crucial to ensure your cake layers come out easily and maintain their perfect shape.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This not only combines the ingredients but also incorporates some air, which helps your cake rise beautifully during baking. Set this mixture aside for later.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a larger mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter along with granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The creaming method is crucial, as it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Once your butter and sugar are well-creamed, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures each egg is fully incorporated into the batter. Then mix in the pure vanilla extract to enhance the cake’s flavor.
Step 5: Combine with Milk and Dry Ingredients
Next, gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating it with the whole milk. Start and end with the flour mixture for the best results. Gently fold in the chopped toasted pecans, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter without overmixing.
Step 6: Baking the Layers
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of a cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Once baked, cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This cooling step is essential for a structured cake.
Step 7: Prepare the Frosting
For the frosting, start by beating the softened butter until it’s creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar while continuing to beat. Pour in the heavy cream and add vanilla bean paste and a pinch of salt. Beat until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, making a rich frosting for your cake.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
To assemble, layer frosting between the three layers of cooled cake, ensuring it’s even. Then, cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting. For a special touch, warm the sweetened condensed milk slightly and drizzle it over the frosted cake. This little drizzle adds extra moisture and sweetness.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
For a finishing touch, garnish the top with extra toasted pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor. Enjoy your beautiful Southern Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake with family and friends!
Variations
- Protein: Consider adding browned butter for an extra nutty flavor, or mix in some chocolate chips for a rich twist.
- Vegetables: For a healthier option, incorporate grated zucchini or carrots to the batter for added moisture and nutrients.
- Spices: Enhance the flavor profile with spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to introduce warmth and complexity to the cake.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing.
- Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking to prevent overbaking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
- Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
Tips
- Always measure flour by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off for accurate results.
- For the best flavor, use high-quality vanilla extract and fresh ingredients.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 500 per serving
- Protein: 6g
- Sodium: 150mg
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap until ready to frost and serve.
What can I substitute for pecans?
If you’re not a fan of pecans, feel free to substitute walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
Can this cake be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze the un-frosted cake layers. Wrap them well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they can last for up to three months in the freezer.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Conclusion
Baking the Best Southern Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake is not just about creating a delicious treat; it’s about sharing love through the art of cooking. Every bite tells a story of tender moments and family gatherings. This cake is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection, and we encourage you to experiment with the variations to make it your own. Don’t forget to share this delightful recipe with your friends and family so they too can enjoy a slice of this moist and flavorful cake. Have fun baking, and feel free to leave your comments and variations you tried in the section below!
Print
Southern Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulging in a slice of Southern Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake is like experiencing a delightful blend of rich flavors and comforting textures. This cake stands out in dessert gatherings, its moist and buttery nature paired with the crunchy pecans offers an unforgettable taste.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1½ cups chopped toasted pecans
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- ¼ cup heavy cream (for frosting)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk (for drizzle)
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, grease and flour your three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
- In a larger mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter along with granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating it with the whole milk. Fold in the chopped toasted pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter until creamy, then gradually add the powdered sugar, heavy cream, vanilla bean paste, and a pinch of salt. Beat until fluffy.
- Assemble the cake by layering frosting between the three layers, then cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting. Drizzle with sweetened condensed milk.
- Garnish with extra toasted pecans and enjoy!
Notes
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing. Store leftover cake in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Protein: 6 g