What frosting goes best with a Butter Pecan Cake?

The most popular choice for a Butter Pecan Cake is cream cheese frosting. Its creamy, tangy flavor pairs beautifully with the buttery, nutty taste of the cake. You can also try butter pecan frosting or vanilla buttercream for a sweeter option that complements the rich texture.

Can I use a butter pecan cake mix instead of making it from scratch?

Absolutely! A butter pecan cake mix is a convenient way to create this classic dessert quickly. To make it taste homemade, add toasted pecans, a splash of vanilla extract, and replace water with buttermilk or milk for extra richness and moisture.

How do I keep my Butter Pecan Cake moist?

The secret is using buttermilk or sour cream in the batter, which locks in moisture. Don’t overbake the cake—remove it from the oven as soon as a toothpick comes out clean. Storing it covered at room temperature helps keep your butter pecan cake soft and tender.

Can I make Butter Pecan Cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and refrigerate or freeze them. When ready to serve, frost the butter pecan cake with cream cheese or butter pecan frosting for a fresh, delicious finish.

Butter Pecan Cake Recipe – Moist, Easy & Delicious 2026

Description

This buttery, nutty cake is a timeless Southern favorite. Toasted pecans add a warm, caramelized crunch to a soft, buttery crumb, while the cream cheese frosting brings luscious sweetness. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or any occasion that calls for a slice of cozy luxury.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients:

For the Cake:

1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs, room temperature
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
2 ½ tsp baking powder
½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
1 ½ cups toasted chopped pecans

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp heavy cream or milk (as needed for texture)
Optional: sprinkle extra toasted pecans on top

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Toast Pecans:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 6–8 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
Prepare Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
- Beat in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
- Stir in vanilla and 1 cup of toasted pecans.
Bake:
- Divide batter into two 8-inch or 9-inch round pans (greased and floured).
- Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely before frosting.
Make Frosting:
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Add powdered sugar gradually, then vanilla and cream. Beat until fluffy.
Assemble Cake:
- Spread frosting between layers and over top and sides.
- Garnish with remaining toasted pecans.

Notes

Flavor Upgrade: Add 1 tsp maple extract or butter flavoring for deeper flavor.
Texture Twist: Fold in shredded coconut for a buttery coconut-pecan hybrid.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days; bring to room temp before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baked
Cuisine: Southern American