Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a dessert that’s both decadent and comforting, look no further than butter pecan cake with cream cheese icing. This delightful treat combines rich flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family gathering or an extravagant celebration. Imagine biting into moist layers of buttery goodness, each complemented by crunchy pecans that add just the right amount of crunch. And let’s not forget about the smooth, tangy cream cheese icing that elevates this cake to pure bliss. Ready to impress your friends and family? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To whip up a delightful Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing, gather your ingredients first.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/2 cups |
| Granulated sugar | 1 1/2 cups |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup |
| Baking powder | 1 1/2 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Butter (unsalted, softened) | 1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Eggs | 4 large |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp |
| Milk | 1 cup |
| Toasted pecans | 1 cup |
For Cream Cheese Icing:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream cheese (softened) | 8 oz |
| Powdered sugar | 4 cups |
| Vanilla extract | 1/2 tsp |
| Milk (optional) | 1-2 tbsp (for thinning) |
| Chopped pecans (for garnish) | 1/2 cup |
You’ll need all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and a sprinkle of salt for the perfect balance. Don’t forget the star of the show: pecans! Toasting them brings out their rich flavor. For moisture and richness, grab some butter and eggs. A splash of vanilla extract will enhance every bite.
Now let’s talk equipment. A standard mixing bowl is essential for combining dry ingredients. An electric mixer will make creaming butter and sugars effortless.
You’ll also need measuring cups and spoons to ensure precision in your measurements. Don’t overlook parchment paper; it makes cake removal smooth as silk! Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans to bake those beautiful layers evenly. Get ready; deliciousness awaits you!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing them with butter and dusting with flour.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, incorporating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract for that delightful flavor boost.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk until everything is combined smoothly.
Gently fold in toasted pecans for that signature crunch. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 1/2 cup | 200 |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup | 200 |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup | 180 |
| Baking powder | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | 0 |
| Butter (unsalted) | 1 tbsp | 100 |
| Eggs | 1 large | 70 |
| Vanilla extract | 1/4 tsp | 3 |
| Milk | 2 tbsp | 20 |
| Toasted pecans | 1/8 cup | 80 |
For Cream Cheese Icing:
| Ingredient | Serving Size | Calories (per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Cream cheese (softened) | 2 tbsp | 100 |
| Powdered sugar | 1/4 cup | 120 |
| Vanilla extract | 1/4 tsp | 1 |
| Milk | 1 tsp | 1 |
| Chopped pecans (for garnish) | 1 tbsp | 20 |
Total Calories (approx. per serving, with icing): 450-500 calories
Let the cakes cool in their pans for ten minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This sets you up perfectly for icing!
Cream Cheese Icing Recipe
Cream cheese icing is the perfect companion for your butter pecan cake. Its rich and tangy flavor balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
To whip up this delightful frosting, start with 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. Beat it until smooth in a mixing bowl. Gradually add 4 cups of powdered sugar, mixing continuously to avoid lumps.
Next, pour in half a teaspoon of vanilla extract for that added depth. If you like a thinner consistency, add a splash of milk until you reach your desired texture.
Once your icing is creamy and luscious, it’s ready to spread generously over your cooled butter pecan cake. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped pecans on top before serving to enhance both taste and presentation. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Tips and Tricks
When baking a Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing, small tweaks can make a big difference. Always toast your pecans before adding them to the batter. This simple step enhances their flavor and adds that delightful crunch.
For a moist cake, avoid overmixing once you combine wet and dry ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined for the best texture.
Consider using room temperature ingredients, especially eggs and cream cheese. They blend more smoothly into your batter and icing, resulting in an even consistency.
If you want extra richness in your cake, substitute half of the regular flour with almond flour. It gives a subtle nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with pecans.
Don’t forget to chill your cream cheese icing before spreading it on your cooled cake. This makes it easier to work with and helps achieve that perfect finish!
Variations and Personalization Options
Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing offers a delightful base for creativity. One easy variation is to add chocolate chips for a rich twist. The combination of buttery pecans and creamy chocolate is pure bliss.
For fruit lovers, consider folding in crushed pineapple or chopped apples. These additions bring moisture and a hint of sweetness that beautifully complements the cake’s flavor.
Feeling adventurous? Experiment with flavored extracts! A dash of maple or almond extract can elevate your cake to new heights, adding depth without overpowering the original taste.
Don’t forget about toppings! Instead of just icing, try drizzling caramel sauce on top or sprinkling extra toasted pecans for texture. Each bite will be an indulgent experience.
The beauty lies in its versatility, allowing you to tailor each creation to suit your palate and occasion perfectly.
Conclusion
Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience. The rich flavors of buttery pecans combined with the smooth tanginess of cream cheese create an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this cake delivers on taste and texture.
By following our simple step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to impress family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to explore variations that reflect your personal taste—every twist adds another layer of enjoyment.
Baking should always be fun, so don’t stress about perfection! Enjoy the process, savor each moment spent in the kitchen, and most importantly, indulge in every delicious slice of your Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing. Happy baking!