Butter Pecan Cake

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, at room temperature
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk

For the Butter Pecan Frosting:

1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1 cup chopped pecans
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Toast the Pecans:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Cake:

In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter until it’s smooth and creamy.
Add the granulated sugar and continue to beat until the mixture is light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Finally, fold in the toasted pecans.

3. Bake the Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
Divide the cake batter evenly between the pans.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack.

4. Prepare the Butter Pecan Frosting:

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped pecans and cook, stirring frequently, until they are lightly toasted.
Remove from heat and let it cool.
In a mixing bowl, beat the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until you have a smooth and creamy frosting.
Stir in the toasted pecans.

5. Frost the Cake:

Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate.
Spread a layer of the butter pecan frosting on top.
Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake.
If desired, garnish the cake with additional chopped pecans.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

Slice and serve your delectable Butter Pecan Cake. It’s perfect for any special occasion or as a delightful treat. Enjoy!
This cake is a real treat, and the combination of butter, pecans, and a rich frosting makes it absolutely delicious.