Bake this Butter Pecan Bliss Cake: A Toasty, Creamy Dream That’s Pure Comfort in Every Slice to indulge your senses with its moist layers infused with browned butter and crunchy pecans. This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or simply a cozy afternoon treat. Its rich flavor and creamy icing make it an unforgettable dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of browned butter and pecans creates a nutty, rich taste that elevates this cake to another level.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—birthdays, holidays, or family gatherings—this cake is sure to impress.
- Creamy Icing: The cream cheese icing adds a luscious texture that complements the moist cake beautifully.
- Make Ahead Option: This cake can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge, making it convenient for busy schedules.
Tools and Preparation
To create your Butter Pecan Bliss Cake, gather the following essential tools. Having the right equipment will ensure a smooth baking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Offset spatula
- Three 8-inch round cake pans
- Parchment paper
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients for a light and fluffy batter.
- Offset spatula: Helps in leveling the batter and spreading icing evenly over the cake layers.
- Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, making it easier to release the cakes from the pans.
Ingredients
Bake this Butter Pecan Bliss Cake—moist layers with browned butter and pecans, topped with creamy icing. Easy, rich, and irresistibly delicious!
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter
- 3 cups (333g) cake flour
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 ½ cups (354ml) buttermilk, room temperature preferred
- 2 large eggs, room temperature preferred
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups (160g) pecan halves, very finely chopped
For the Icing:
- 1 ½ cups (340g) unsalted butter, softened
- 6 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup (66g) light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp salt
- 4 ½ cups (562g) powdered sugar
- 1 tbsp heavy cream
- ⅓ cup (35g) pecan halves, very finely chopped, optional
How to Make Butter Pecan Bliss Cake: A Toasty, Creamy Dream That’s Pure Comfort in Every Slice
Step 1: Toast the Butter
Melt 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook until golden specks form. Stir often; this should take about 5-10 minutes. Cool completely before setting aside.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease three 8-inch round pans with butter and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. 3 cups (333g) cake flour
2. 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
3. 1 cup (200g) light brown sugar
4. 1 tsp baking powder
5. ½ tsp baking soda
6. 1 tsp salt
Set this dry mixture aside.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add cooled browned butter to the dry mix. Beat with an electric mixer until combined. In another bowl, whisk together:
1. 1 ½ cups (354ml) buttermilk
2. 2 large eggs
3. 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
Gradually mix into the butter-flour combo until just combined.
Step 5: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in:
– 1 ½ cups (160g) finely chopped pecans
Step 6: Bake
Divide batter evenly among the three prepared pans. Smooth tops using an offset spatula. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks.
Step 7: Prepare Icing
Beat together:
– 1 ½ cups (340g) softened unsalted butter
– 6 oz cream cheese
Once smooth, add:
– ⅓ cup (66g) light brown sugar
– 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract,
– ¼ tsp salt.
Gradually mix in:
– 4 ½ cups (562g) powdered sugar,
– Add in a tablespoon of heavy cream as needed until fluffy.
Step 8: Assemble the Cake
Level cooled cakes if necessary. Place one layer on a plate; spread icing on top before stacking another layer on it. Repeat for third layer. Frost outside of cake using remaining icing and sprinkle with additional chopped pecans if desired! Slice and enjoy!
How to Serve Butter Pecan Bliss Cake: A Toasty, Creamy Dream That’s Pure Comfort in Every Slice
Serving your Butter Pecan Bliss Cake can elevate the experience and delight your guests. Here are some creative ways to present this creamy dream that’s pure comfort in every slice.
Elegant Plating
- Use a cake stand: Elevate the cake on a beautiful pedestal to showcase its layers and icing.
- Garnish with pecans: Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for added texture and decoration.
Pair with Beverages
- Serve with coffee or tea: The warm flavors of coffee or soothing tea complement the richness of the cake perfectly.
- Try it with milk or cream: For a classic pairing, offer cold milk or a drizzle of cream alongside each slice.
Add Fresh Fruits
- Include fresh berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a tart contrast that balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Use sliced oranges or apples: Citrus or crisp apple slices bring refreshing flavors to every bite.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Assemble a dessert board: Mix slices of Butter Pecan Bliss Cake with cookies, chocolates, and other treats for variety.
- Incorporate ice cream scoops: Serve with vanilla ice cream to enhance the comforting experience.
How to Perfect Butter Pecan Bliss Cake: A Toasty, Creamy Dream That’s Pure Comfort in Every Slice
Achieving perfection with your Butter Pecan Bliss Cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully every time.
- Use room temperature ingredients: Eggs and buttermilk should be at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Brown your butter carefully: Watch closely while browning butter; it should turn golden without burning for optimal flavor.
- Measure flour correctly: Spoon flour into measuring cups instead of scooping directly to avoid dense layers.
- Cool cakes completely before icing: This prevents melting and ensures smooth application of the frosting.
- Don’t skip the pecan chopping: Finely chop pecans for even distribution throughout the batter, enhancing texture and flavor.
- Store properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain moisture.
Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Bliss Cake: A Toasty, Creamy Dream That’s Pure Comfort in Every Slice
Pairing side dishes with your Butter Pecan Bliss Cake can enhance your dessert spread. Here are some delightful options that complement its rich flavors.
- Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that offers a creamy contrast to the cake’s richness; serve alongside each slice for an indulgent treat.
- Caramel Sauce – Drizzle warm caramel over the cake for an extra layer of sweetness and depth; it enhances the buttery notes beautifully.
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad adds freshness, balancing out the cake’s richness; consider using seasonal fruits for best results.
- Chocolate Mousse – The airy texture of chocolate mousse contrasts nicely with the dense cake; serve in small cups alongside slices.
- Whipped Cream – Lightly sweetened whipped cream provides a fluffy topping option; it can be dolloped generously on each slice.
- Nutty Granola Parfait – Layer granola with yogurt and fruit as a complementary dish; its crunch pairs well with the soft cake texture.
- Scones or Muffins – Offer mini scones or muffins as bite-sized treats for guests who want something different alongside their cake.
- Cheese Plate – A selection of mild cheeses can balance out sweetness; include crackers and nuts for added variety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking a Butter Pecan Bliss Cake can be a joy, but avoiding common mistakes is key to success. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using Cold Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter, eggs, and buttermilk. Cold ingredients can lead to uneven mixing and a dense cake.
- Neglecting the Browning Process: Properly brown the butter until you see golden specks. Skipping this step means missing out on that rich flavor.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined when adding wet ingredients to dry. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake texture.
- Not Measuring Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method for measuring flour. Scooping directly can pack it in and result in a dry cake.
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow cakes to cool completely before frosting. Frosting on warm layers can melt and slide off.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store your Butter Pecan Bliss Cake in an airtight container.
- It stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Butter Pecan Bliss Cake: A Toasty, Creamy Dream That’s Pure Comfort in Every Slice
- Wrap individual slices or whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Butter Pecan Bliss Cake: A Toasty, Creamy Dream That’s Pure Comfort in Every Slice
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the cake on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for 15-20 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat with a lid, warming each slice for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Butter Pecan Bliss Cake so special?
The unique combination of browned butter and finely chopped pecans creates an irresistible flavor profile that truly comforts the soul.
Can I customize the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake?
Absolutely! You can add chocolate chips or substitute different nuts based on your preferences for a delightful twist.
How do I prevent my cake from drying out?
Ensure you don’t overbake and store it properly. Keep it covered and refrigerated if not consumed immediately.
What’s the best way to serve Butter Pecan Bliss Cake?
Slice it into generous pieces and pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra creamy touch!
Final Thoughts
This Butter Pecan Bliss Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warm flavors that promise comfort with every bite. Its easy preparation allows you to share this delightful treat at any gathering, while customization options let you make it uniquely yours. Don’t hesitate—give it a try today!
Butter Pecan Bliss Cake
Indulge in the delightful Butter Pecan Bliss Cake, a toasty, creamy dream that brings pure comfort with every slice. This moist layered cake is infused with rich, browned butter and crunchy pecans, all topped with a luscious cream cheese icing. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or casual afternoon gatherings, this cake is not only easy to make but guarantees to impress your guests. Its irresistible flavor and beautiful presentation make it an unforgettable addition to any dessert table.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups cake flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups finely chopped pecans
- Cream cheese for icing
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans with butter and parchment paper.
- Brown the butter in a saucepan until golden specks appear; let cool.
- In a bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: cake flour, sugars, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Combine the cooled butter with dry ingredients using an electric mixer. In another bowl, mix buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla; gradually add to the butter mixture.
- Fold in finely chopped pecans and evenly distribute batter into prepared pans. Bake for about 30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool cakes before frosting with whipped cream cheese icing.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing. Finely chop pecans for even distribution. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.