Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Hey friends!

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both indulgent and comforting, you’ve come to the right place. This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family gatherings or just a cozy night in. The rich flavors of butter and pecans blend beautifully in this cake, making it feel like a warm hug on a plate. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, so even if you’re busy, you can still impress your loved ones with this delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this cake ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weekday dessert or a special celebration, this cake fits the bill!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet gooeyness combined with crunchy pecans.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Bake it the day before your event! It tastes even better after sitting for a while.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of buttery goodness and nutty pecans is simply divine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that create magic together. Here’s what you’ll need for your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake:

For the Cake

• 2 tablespoons salted butter (28 g)
• 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans (140 g)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 g)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (226 g)
• 1 whole egg, softened
• 1 egg yolk, softened
• 2 1/2 cups icing sugar (325 g)
• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (141 g)
• 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Topping

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
• Browned butter from earlier step
• 1 whole egg, softened
• 1 egg yolk, softened
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla essence
• (Optional) 1 tablespoon bourbon
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, softened (120 ml)
• 1 cup granulated sugar (200 g)
• 5 tablespoons salted butter, softened (70 g)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream, softened (120 ml)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
• 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas to try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Mix in some chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness and richness!
• Try Different Nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nutty flavor.
• Make It Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to make it gluten-free friendly.
• Enhance the Flavor: Experiment with different extracts like almond or maple instead of vanilla for a unique twist.

How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking pan with some oil or non-stick spray. This step ensures that your cake comes out smoothly without sticking—no one likes a broken cake!

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter and add the chopped pecans. Toast them until they’re golden brown and fragrant. This brings out their natural oils and enhances their flavor—trust me; it’s worth the extra few minutes!

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add in both eggs and egg yolk one at a time while mixing well after each addition. Gradually stir in icing sugar followed by flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until fully combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Carefully fold in your toasted pecans into the batter along with vanilla essence. The pecans not only add texture but also complement that gooey goodness perfectly!

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake for about 60 minutes or until golden brown on top. Just remember that every oven is different; keep an eye on it toward the end!

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allowing it to cool will help set that gooey center we all love.

And there you have it—a slice of heavenly Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake awaits! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Making a Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful experience, and with a few tips, you can elevate your baking game!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature allows for better mixing and a smoother batter, resulting in a creamier texture.

• Don’t skip the browning step: Browning the butter adds a deep, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the cake. It creates an irresistible aroma that will fill your kitchen!

• Measure accurately: Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure you have the right amounts of flour and sugar. Accurate measurements lead to consistent baking results.

• Check for doneness: Since oven temperatures can vary, use a toothpick to test the center of the cake. When it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready to be enjoyed.

• Let it cool before serving: Allow your cake to cool completely before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes for cleaner cuts, showcasing that gooey goodness!

How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Serving your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake can be just as fun as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can impress your guests (or yourself!) while enjoying this delightful treat.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds lightness and balances the richness of the cake.
• Chopped pecans: Sprinkling some chopped pecans on top adds texture and enhances the nutty flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can take your cake to another level of indulgence.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing with warm gooey cake is vanilla ice cream; its creaminess complements the richness perfectly.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad adds a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the dense cake.
• Coffee or tea: Serving your cake with a cup of coffee or herbal tea provides a comforting beverage option that enhances the dessert experience.
• Chocolate sauce: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of chocolate sauce alongside your slice makes for an exciting combination!

Now you’re all set to dive into this scrumptious treat! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or cozy nights at home.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, slice the cake and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warm, being careful not to overheat.
• Alternatively, you can warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this recipe, here are some common questions that might help!

Can I make this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can substitute each egg with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water, letting it sit until it thickens.

How should I serve my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

Serve your cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or whipped topping!

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Absolutely! While pecans add a unique flavor, you can swap them for walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

How long does the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake last?

When stored properly in the fridge, it lasts up to 5 days. If frozen, enjoy within three months for the best taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake as much as I do! It’s a comforting dessert that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a quiet moment alone, I’m sure you’ll love every gooey bite. Happy baking!