Butter Pecan Cake

Preparing the Cake Batter

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
6. Fold in the Pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Baking the Cake

1. Pour Batter into Pans: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s), smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes for the 9×13-inch pan or 25-30 minutes for the round pans, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Brown Sugar Glaze

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add Brown Sugar and Milk: Stir in the brown sugar and milk, bringing the mixture to a boil. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes.
3. Remove from Heat and Add Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the glaze is smooth and free of lumps.

Assembling the Cake

1. Glaze the Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, pour the brown sugar glaze over the top. Use a spatula to spread the glaze evenly, allowing it to drip down the sides of the cake.
2. Set the Glaze: Allow the glaze to set for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips for a Perfect Butter Pecan Cake

Toasting the Pecans

Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the cake. Simply spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are fragrant and lightly toasted.

Ensuring a Moist Cake

To ensure your cake is moist and tender, be careful not to overmix the batter. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Additionally, using buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tang that complements the sweetness of the glaze.

Serving Suggestions

Butter pecan cake with brown sugar glaze is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you prefer, you can also refrigerate the cake, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

How Do I Store Leftover Cake?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate the cake for up to a week or freeze it for up to three months. Thaw frozen cake in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Can I Use a Different Type of Nut?

While pecans are traditional for this recipe, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just be sure to toast the nuts for the best flavor.

Conclusion

Butter pecan cake with brown sugar glaze is a timeless dessert that combines rich, buttery flavors with a sweet, caramelized topping. By following this recipe, you can create a cake that’s sure to impress and delight your family and friends. Whether for a special occasion or simply to satisfy your sweet cravings, this cake is a must-try for any dessert lover.

So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake a cake that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Enjoy the process and, most importantly, enjoy every bite of your homemade butter pecan cake with brown sugar glaze.