Southern Butter Pecan Layer Cake Recipe

A Southern Butter Pecan Layer Cake is a rich, moist, and decadent cake full of buttery flavor, roasted pecans, and a creamy frosting that melts in your mouth. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion, this cake combines Southern charm with irresistible sweetness.

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 2 ½ tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 4 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• 1 tsp butter flavoring (optional, for enhanced buttery taste)

• 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature

• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Butter Pecan Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk

• ½ cup chopped pecans, toasted

For Garnish:

• Whole or chopped toasted pecans

• Caramel drizzle (optional)

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Pans

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans (or two 9-inch pans).

3. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

1. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet.

2. Toast in the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until fragrant.

3. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

2. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand or stand mixer.

3. Beat in eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.

4. Mix in vanilla extract and optional butter flavoring.

5. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

6. Gently fold in toasted pecans.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans.

2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Step 5: Prepare the Butter Pecan Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat butter until creamy.

2. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed.

3. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, adjusting the consistency to make it smooth and spreadable.

4. Fold in toasted pecans for extra flavor and crunch.

Step 6: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the cooled cake layers with a serrated knife if needed.

2. Place the first layer on a serving plate and spread an even layer of frosting.

3. Repeat with remaining layers.

4. Frost the top and sides evenly.

5. Garnish with whole or chopped toasted pecans and optional caramel drizzle.

Step 7: Serve and Store

• Slice and serve with a cold glass of milk or warm tea.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

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Tips for the Perfect Southern Butter Pecan Cake

• Room temperature ingredients make the batter smoother and the cake more tender.

• Do not overmix once the flour is added; overmixing can make the cake dense.

• Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunch.

• For an extra Southern touch, drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the top before serving.

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This recipe makes 3 layers of moist, buttery, pecan-filled cake that is rich, indulgent, and perfect for celebrations.