The Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is a delightful dessert that combines the rich, nutty flavor of buttered pecans with the creamy tanginess of cream cheese icing. This cake is perfect for any celebration, from birthdays to holidays, or even as a special treat for yourself.

The origins of pecan-based desserts trace back to the Southern United States, where pecans are a staple ingredient in many traditional recipes. The buttery flavor of pecans is complemented perfectly by the smooth, sweet cream cheese icing, creating a harmonious balance of flavors and textures.

Over the years, this dessert has gained popularity across the country and beyond, becoming a beloved favorite for many. Making this cake is not only about indulging in its delectable taste but also about appreciating a piece of culinary history.

Whether you're an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is accessible and rewarding. For those interested in learning more about pecans and their nutritional benefits, you can check out this resource.

Now, let's dive into the ingredients and steps needed to create this mouthwatering Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing.

Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

2 cups of all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened

1 cup of buttermilk
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

1 teaspoon of baking soda
1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon of salt

1 1/2 cups of chopped pecans
For the icing: 8 ounces of cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, softened

4 cups of powdered sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe

Instructions for Making Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

In another bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
Fold in the chopped pecans.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.

To make the icing, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
Stir in the vanilla extract.

Once the cakes are completely cool, spread a layer of icing on top of one cake layer.
Place the second cake layer on top and spread icing over the top and sides of the cake.
Decorate with additional pecans if desired.

Nutritional Information

A slice of Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing offers a delightful indulgence. Typically, a serving can contain around 450-500 calories, with the majority of those calories coming from carbohydrates and fats. The pecans in the cake provide healthy fats, making this dessert slightly more nutritious than others.

Pecans are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are known to help reduce LDL cholesterol levels. The cake also contains protein from both the pecans and the eggs, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.

The cream cheese icing, while delicious, is calorie-dense due to the sugar and fat content, so moderation is key. For those who are curious about more detailed nutritional breakdowns, including vitamins and minerals, this detailed site offers comprehensive insights.

Wine/Beverage Pairings With Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

A slice of Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing pairs beautifully with a range of beverages. If you're enjoying this cake as an afternoon treat, consider pairing it with a rich, dark coffee or an espresso, which will complement the cake's sweetness and enhance its nutty notes.

For those who prefer tea, a black tea with caramel or vanilla undertones would be a perfect match. If you're serving this cake at a dinner party, a dessert wine like a Riesling or a Moscato can be an excellent choice.

These wines have a natural sweetness that pairs well with the cake's flavors without overpowering them. If you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, a chai latte can offer a spiced counterpart to the cake's buttery richness.

Cooking Tips and Variations

When making Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing, using quality ingredients will significantly enhance the final product. Opt for fresh pecans for the best flavor and texture. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter can bring out a deeper, nuttier flavor, adding complexity to the cake.

Ensure that all ingredients, especially the cream cheese and butter for the icing, are at room temperature to allow for smoother mixing and a creamy finish. If you prefer a bit of variety, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced note.

You can also experiment with adding a touch of maple syrup to the icing for a hint of sweetness that complements the pecans beautifully.

For a lighter version of the icing, you might substitute some of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt, which will maintain the tangy flavor while reducing calories.

Serving Suggestions

To serve Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing, it's best to let the cake reach room temperature to allow the icing to soften slightly, enhancing its creamy texture.

This cake makes an impressive centerpiece for any dessert table, especially when garnished with a few whole pecans or a sprinkle of crushed pecans. For a more elegant presentation, consider serving each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.

If you're hosting a special occasion, plating the cake with fresh berries can add a pop of color and a burst of tartness that contrasts beautifully with the cake's sweetness. For a casual gathering, simply slicing the cake and serving it on pretty dessert plates will suffice.

This cake is also a wonderful gift for friends or family, making it a thoughtful homemade present. When storing leftovers, keep the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness, allowing you to enjoy this delightful dessert for several days after baking.

Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing Health Benefits

While Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is undoubtedly a treat, it does offer some health benefits due to its key ingredient: pecans. Pecans are a great source of healthy fats, including monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help improve heart health by lowering bad cholesterol levels.

They are also rich in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Pecans provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut.

Although the cake contains sugar and fat from butter and cream cheese, enjoying it in moderation as part of a balanced diet can be a delightful experience without significant negative impacts on health.

For those interested in modifying the recipe to be even healthier, consider using a whole wheat flour blend or a sugar substitute to reduce calories and increase fiber content.

FAQs About Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing

Can I make the Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance. Simply bake the cake layers and store them wrapped in plastic wrap. Prepare the icing fresh when you're ready to assemble and serve.

Can I freeze Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing?

Yes, the cake can be frozen. It's best to freeze the layers separately and add the icing after thawing. Wrapped tightly, the cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I use instead of pecans in this recipe?

If you're unable to use pecans, walnuts or almonds are great alternatives that will still provide a similar nutty flavor.

The Butter Pecan Cake with Cream Cheese Icing is not just a dessert, but a testament to the delightful combination of flavors and textures that can bring joy to any occasion. Whether you're celebrating a special event or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake offers a perfect balance of buttery pecans and tangy cream cheese icing. Its rich history and delicious taste make it a cherished recipe that you'll want to make time and again. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe invites you to create something truly special. Enjoy every bite, and don't forget to share this delightful cake with your friends and family!