Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings smiles and warmth to any gathering, look no further than this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! This recipe has a special place in my heart. It’s rich, buttery, and loaded with crunchy pecans that add a delightful texture to each bite. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive occasion, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table.

The best part? It’s incredibly simple to whip up! With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a dessert that tastes like it came from a fancy bakery. Trust me; once you share this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake with your loved ones, they’ll be asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This cake comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family Favorite: The sweet gooeyness combined with pecans makes it a hit with kids and adults alike!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare it ahead of time and store it for those unexpected guests.
• Decadent Flavor: The rich flavors of butter and cream cheese create an indulgent dessert experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to make your delicious 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
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
• Browned butter from the earlier step
• 1 whole egg, softened
• 1 egg yolk, softened
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla essence
• (Optional: 1 tablespoon bourbon for flavor enhancement)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, softened (120 ml)

For the Topping:

• 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

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to suit your taste preferences!

• Nut Alternatives: Try swapping out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Add Some Spice: Incorporate cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for an extra warmth in flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers Unite: Add chocolate chips for a delightful surprise in every bite!
• Fruit Fusion: Mix in some chopped apples or pears to give your cake a fruity twist.

How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pecans

Start by preheating your oven and preparing your pecans. Toast them lightly in a pan with salted butter until they are golden brown and aromatic. This step enhances their flavor and adds depth to your cake.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy. Then add in the eggs and yolks one at a time. Mixing well after each addition is vital because it creates that fluffy texture we all love!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, icing sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients to your creamy mixture while mixing on low speed. Remember not to overmix; we want our cake light and airy!

Step 4: Fold in Pecans

Now comes the fun part! Gently fold in those toasted pecans into your batter. They’ll add that lovely crunch when baked while complementing the gooey texture perfectly.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour your batter into a greased baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven until golden brown—about an hour should do it! Keep an eye on it near the end; every oven is different.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow your cake to cool before slicing into it. The waiting will be tough, but I promise it’s worth it! Serve warm or at room temperature—either way; it’s going to be delicious!

Enjoy making this delightful treat!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Making the perfect Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ingredients like butter, cream cheese, and eggs blend better at room temperature, resulting in a smoother batter and a fluffier texture.

• Don’t skip the browning step: Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of your cake. It’s a simple step that makes a world of difference!

• Measure your ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and precise measurements can affect the cake’s texture and flavor. Use a kitchen scale when possible for the best results.

• Let it cool before serving: Allowing your cake to cool completely helps it set and makes it easier to slice. Plus, the gooey texture will be even more delightful when served at room temperature!

• Experiment with toppings: Feel free to add your own twist with toppings like whipped cream or chocolate drizzle for an extra touch of sweetness!

How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; its presentation can be equally impressive! Here are some ideas on how to serve it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkling some additional chopped pecans on top not only adds crunch but also emphasizes the nutty flavor in every bite.
• Powdered sugar dusting: A light dusting of powdered sugar gives your cake an elegant finish and adds just a hint of sweetness without overwhelming it.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with the gooeyness of the cake, creating a delightful contrast.
• Fresh berries: A mix of fresh strawberries or blueberries brings a burst of color and tartness that complements the sweet richness of the cake.
• Whipped cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy touch that balances out the dense gooeyness of the cake.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each slice can enhance the flavor profile, making each bite even more indulgent.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake to its fullest! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy its sweet, nutty goodness anytime.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat, allow the cake to thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm it gently in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I use another type of nut instead of pecans in the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or almonds can make great substitutes. Just chop them finely and use the same amount as specified.

How do I know when my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is done baking?

Your cake is ready when it’s set around the edges but still slightly gooey in the center. A toothpick inserted should come out with a few moist crumbs attached, not wet batter.

Can I make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake without cream cheese?

Yes, you can replace cream cheese with a non-dairy cream cheese alternative or a thick yogurt. This will slightly alter the flavor but will still yield a delicious result!

How long does it take to make the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

The total time is about 90 minutes, including prep and cooking time. It’s worth every minute for that delightful flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! It’s truly a special treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Whether it’s an afternoon snack or a dessert for friends and family, I encourage you to give it a try. Your kitchen will smell heavenly, and you’ll be left with smiles all around!