There is something truly magical about the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe—a moist, buttery cake studded with toasted pecans and topped with a luscious brown sugar frosting that feels like a warm hug with every bite. This dessert captures the perfect balance of rich, nutty flavor and sweet, creamy frosting, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. If you’ve been searching for a Southern-inspired cake that brings comfort and celebration together, this Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are deceptively simple but come together to create a symphony of flavor, texture, and that gorgeous golden color that draws you in instantly. Each plays an essential role, whether it’s the richness of butter, the crunch of toasted pecans, or the sweetness of brown sugar.
- Unsalted butter (softened): The foundation of flavor and moisture, butter makes the cake tender and rich.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps create a light, fluffy texture when creamed with butter.
- Large eggs: Provide structure and help the cake rise beautifully.
- Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the cake’s flavor.
- All-purpose flour: The cake’s main structural component, carefully measured to ensure perfect crumb.
- Baking powder: The leavening agent that gives the cake that delightful lift.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances other flavors.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness for a tender crumb.
- Finely chopped toasted pecans: Deliver a nutty crunch that complements every bite.
- Brown sugar (light or dark): Key to the frosting’s deep caramel notes and sticky sweetness.
- Heavy cream: Gives the frosting a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting for easy spreading.
- Chopped toasted pecans (for garnish): Add a beautiful finishing touch with extra crunch and texture.
How to Make Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans thoroughly—this simple prep work ensures your cake layers come out clean and intact without sticking to the pans.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until you have a light, fluffy mixture. This step is crucial because it traps air that helps the cake rise into a tender delight.
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, which will infuse the cake with a sweet, mellow aroma that gets better as it bakes.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and seasoning throughout the batter.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the whole milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. This technique keeps the batter smooth and balanced, preventing overmixing.
Step 6: Fold in Toasted Pecans and Divide Batter
Gently fold in the finely chopped toasted pecans, which add that signature nutty crunch. Then, divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula for an even bake.
Step 7: Bake the Cake Layers
Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely—patience here means your frosting won’t melt or slide off.
Step 8: Make the Butter Pecan Frosting
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar. Cook for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and slightly thickened, then stir in the heavy cream and salt. Remove from heat and let this mixture cool for 10–15 minutes. Once cooled, gradually beat in powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
Step 9: Assemble the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe
Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate and spread it generously with frosting. Top with the second layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. Finish by sprinkling chopped toasted pecans over the frosting for that extra special crunch and visual appeal.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra chopped toasted pecans on top to echo the delightful nuts inside the cake. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a pretty, delicate touch that looks like it’s straight from a bakery display.
Side Dishes
Serve this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a fruitier contrast, fresh sliced pears or a berry compote beautifully complement the warm, nutty flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating individual slices drizzled with a caramel sauce to amp up the decadence. Alternatively, you can turn this cake into a trifle by layering cubes with whipped cream and caramel pudding in a glass bowl—each spoonful becomes a delightful surprise!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake keeps beautifully in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is a safe bet to maintain freshness without drying it out.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake layers once fully cooled by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to three months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting and serving.
Reheating
For a fresh-baked feel, warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds. This slight heat enhances the buttery flavor and softens the frosting without melting it completely.
FAQs
Can I use pecan pieces instead of finely chopped pecans?
Absolutely! Larger pecan pieces will add more texture and crunch, but finely chopped pecans distribute more evenly in the cake for consistent nutty bites.
Is the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe suitable for making cupcakes?
Yes, you can bake this batter in cupcake tins. Bake for about 18–20 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Frost as you would the cake for perfect single servings.
Can I substitute milk with a dairy-free alternative?
Whole milk adds richness, but you can replace it with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free version though the texture might be slightly lighter.
How do I toast pecans properly?
Toasting pecans enhances their flavor—simply spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring halfway through until fragrant and golden.
What makes the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe different from other butter pecan cakes?
It’s the perfectly balanced brown sugar frosting combined with finely chopped toasted pecans in both the batter and garnish that elevates this recipe to a true blissful experience.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe is an absolute treasure that brings warmth and nostalgia with every delicious slice. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because you need a sweet moment, this cake promises smiles and sweet memories. Give it a try and see how easily it becomes a beloved favorite in your kitchen!
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Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes (plus cooling time)
- Yield: 10–12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Butter Pecan Bliss Cake is a decadent Southern American dessert featuring moist cake layers studded with toasted pecans and topped with a rich, buttery brown sugar frosting. Perfect for holidays and special occasions, this cake combines the nutty crunch of pecans with a smooth, sweet frosting that will delight any crowd.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup finely chopped toasted pecans
For the Butter Pecan Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2–2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup chopped toasted pecans (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, then mix in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three batches, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Finally, fold in the finely chopped toasted pecans. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: Melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for 2–3 minutes until the mixture is bubbly and slightly thickened. Add the heavy cream and salt, then remove from heat. Let this mixture cool for 10–15 minutes. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until you achieve a smooth and spreadable frosting.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on your serving plate and generously spread with the prepared frosting. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly. Garnish with the chopped toasted pecans on top for added texture and flavor.
Notes
- Prepare the cake layers a day ahead and wrap tightly after cooling for easier assembly the next day.
- For extra depth of flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon to the cake batter or frosting.
- Ensure pecans are toasted to enhance their nutty flavor before adding to cake and for garnish.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
