Description

Celebrate in style with this Butter Pecan Layer Cake! Moist layers of buttery pecan-flavored cake are paired with creamy, rich frosting and topped with toasted pecans for a decadent dessert. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any special occasion, this elegant cake is a showstopper.

Ingredients

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For the Cake:

2 1/2 cups (310g) all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
2 cups (400g) granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon butter extract (optional)
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
1 cup (120g) chopped toasted pecans

For the Frosting:

1 cup (225g) unsalted butter, softened
4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream (add more if needed)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon butter extract (optional)

For Garnish:

1 cup (120g) toasted pecans (halves and chopped)

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and butter extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Fold in the toasted pecans.
Bake the Cakes:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool the cakes in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Frosting:
- In a large bowl, beat butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, alternating with heavy cream, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Beat in vanilla and butter extract.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then repeat with the second and third layers.
- Frost the sides and top of the cake evenly.
Decorate:
- Garnish the cake with toasted pecans, piping additional frosting as desired.
Serve:
- Slice and enjoy this beautiful, flavorful dessert!

Notes

To toast pecans, bake them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the frosting for a warm flavor twist.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.