Butter Pecan Cake
A delightful blend of buttery richness and crunchy pecans, this Butter Pecan Cake is easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened Room temperature for best results.
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs Room temperature.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional) Enhances flavor.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted Toast for enhanced flavor.
For the Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened For frosting.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened To be mixed with the butter.
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract For frosting.
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
- ½ cup whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt To enhance the caramel flavor.
Instructions
Make the Caramel Sauce
- In a saucepan, combine 1 cup granulated sugar, 6 tablespoons of butter, and ½ cup whipping cream. Stir until it thickens, then turn off the heat. Add sea salt and set aside to cool.
Preheat and Prepare Pans
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your cake pans (two 9-inch rounds work great!).
Make the Cake Batter
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, vanilla, and dark rum.
Combine Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually mix this into the wet ingredients.
Pour in Milk and Pecans
- Stir in whole milk and the toasted chopped pecans until everything is well blended.
Bake the Cakes
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Prepare the Frosting
- Beat the softened cream cheese and the second portion of softened butter in a bowl until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract until fluffy.
Assemble the Cake
- Once the cakes have cooled, spread frosting between layers, on top, and around the sides. Drizzle with your cooled caramel sauce.
Garnish
- Sprinkle some extra toasted pecans on top to really make this cake shine.
Notes
For best results, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. If desired, serve with vanilla ice cream for contrast in flavor and texture.