A Southern Butter Pecan Cake Made for True Pecan Lovers

I still remember the first time I tasted Southern butter pecan cake—and trust me, it wasn’t just a dessert; it was an experience.

It was a warm evening in Savannah, Georgia, during one of my road trips through the South. My friends and I had spent the entire day exploring the city’s cobblestone streets, soaking in the charm of old mansions, Spanish moss-draped trees, and the slow, easy rhythm of Southern life. After hours of sightseeing, we stumbled upon a small, family-owned bakery tucked away on a quiet street. The smell of butter and caramelized pecans filled the air, drawing us in like a magnet.

As we stepped inside, the kind elderly woman behind the counter greeted us with a smile. She must have noticed our tired but happy faces because, without hesitation, she said, “Y’all look like you need something sweet. How about a slice of my famous butter pecan cake?”

I had never heard of butter pecan cake before, but the way she said it made it sound like the most irresistible thing in the world. We ordered a few slices, grabbed a cozy corner table, and took our first bites.

The moment the cake touched my tongue, I knew I had discovered something special. It was soft, buttery, and packed with toasted pecans, each bite melting into a perfect balance of rich flavors. The brown sugar cream cheese frosting added a hint of caramel-like sweetness, making it one of the most decadent cakes I’d ever tasted. I looked around at my friends, and we all had the same expression—pure bliss.

That night, as we walked back to our Airbnb, I couldn’t stop thinking about the cake. The warmth of the butter, the crunch of the pecans, and the smooth frosting all lingered in my mind. I knew I had to learn how to make it myself.

Now, every time I bake butter pecan cake, I’m transported back to that evening in Savannah—the laughter of friends, the charm of the South, and the unforgettable taste of a truly special cake.

If you’ve never had Southern butter pecan cake, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into what makes this cake so beloved and unique!

The Secret Ingredient for the Best Butter Pecan Cake

The magic of Southern butter pecan cake lies in its rich, nutty, and buttery flavor, but one ingredient takes it to the next level—toasted pecans.

I still remember how the first bite of that cake in Savannah had this deep, warm nuttiness that set it apart from any other cake I had tasted before. I knew that pecans were the key, but what I didn’t realize back then was how much toasting them could transform their flavor.

The Role of Toasted Pecans

Raw pecans are soft and slightly bitter, but when you toast them, something amazing happens:

✅ The natural oils release a deep, buttery aroma
✅ They become crisp and caramelized, adding a crunch
✅ The bitterness disappears, leaving behind a rich, nutty flavor

The difference is huge. Toasting pecans doesn’t just make them crunchier—it makes them taste warmer, sweeter, and more complex, which is exactly what gives this cake its signature Southern charm.

👉 Pro Tip: Always toast your pecans before mixing them into the batter. It’s a small step that makes a big difference!

Other Key Ingredients for a Perfect Cake

Beyond toasted pecans, a few other ingredients help create the best butter pecan cake with the perfect texture and flavor.

1. Brown Sugar – The Caramel-Like Sweetness

Unlike regular white sugar, brown sugar contains molasses, which adds depth and richness to the cake. It also makes the cake extra moist and soft.

2. Butter – The Star Ingredient

As the name suggests, butter plays a leading role in this cake. Using real, high-quality butter makes a huge difference, giving the cake a smooth, rich texture.

👉 Pro Tip: Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level in the recipe.

3. Buttermilk or Sour Cream – The Secret to Moisture

Many classic Southern cakes use buttermilk or sour cream because they add moisture and tenderness without making the cake heavy.

👉 Substitution Tip: No buttermilk? Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

4. Vanilla Extract – Enhancing the Flavors

A splash of pure vanilla extract balances the flavors, tying together the buttery richness and nutty crunch of the cake.

5. Baking Powder & Baking Soda – For the Perfect Rise

A mix of these two leavening agents ensures the cake bakes up light, fluffy, and tender every time.

How to Butter & Toast Pecans for Butter Pecan Cake

The secret to a rich, nutty butter pecan cake is perfectly toasted pecans. When done right, they add a deep caramelized flavor, crisp texture, and irresistible aroma to the cake. But if they’re under-toasted, they lack depth. Over-toasted? They become bitter.

After my trip to Savannah, Georgia, where I first fell in love with butter pecan cake, I was determined to recreate that same warm, buttery crunch at home. But the first time I tried? I rushed the process and ended up with burnt pecans that tasted more like charcoal than cake perfection.

I learned the hard way that toasting pecans properly requires patience—and a little butter.

Why Toasting Pecans Enhances Flavor

Many people skip toasting pecans when making this cake, but that’s a mistake. Here’s why you should never use raw pecans in butter pecan cake:

✅ Unlocks natural oils → Toasting releases the pecan’s natural butteriness.
✅ Deepens flavor → Creates a richer, caramel-like taste.
✅ Adds crunch → Prevents the pecans from turning soft inside the cake.
✅ Reduces bitterness → Raw pecans sometimes have a slightly bitter taste, but toasting removes that.

Step-by-Step Guide to Perfectly Toasted Pecans

To get that perfect buttery crunch, follow these simple steps:

🔹 Stovetop Method (Quick & Easy)

1️⃣ Melt 2 tbsp of unsalted butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2️⃣ Add 1 ½ cups of chopped pecans and stir to coat them evenly.
3️⃣ Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until the pecans turn golden brown and smell toasty.
4️⃣ Remove from heat and let them cool before adding to your cake batter.

💡 Pro Tip: Keep stirring! Pecans can burn quickly if left unattended.

🔹 Oven Method (Best for Large Batches)

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3️⃣ Drizzle with melted butter (optional) for extra richness.
4️⃣ Bake for 7-10 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even toasting.
5️⃣ Let them cool completely before adding them to your cake batter.

💡 Pro Tip: Once you start smelling the rich, nutty aroma, they’re ready! Don’t over-toast them, or they’ll turn bitter.

When to Add Toasted Pecans to the Cake

Once cooled, half of the toasted pecans go into the cake batter, adding flavor to every bite. The rest? Sprinkle them on top of the frosting for a crunchy, decorative finish!

Now that we’ve mastered toasting pecans, it’s time to bake the best Southern butter pecan cake!

How to Make the BEST Southern Butter Pecan Cake

Now that we’ve perfected toasting pecans, it’s time to bring all the ingredients together and bake the ultimate Southern butter pecan cake. This cake is all about rich, buttery flavor, a tender crumb, and the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.

The best part? Whether you’re making it from scratch or using a butter pecan cake mix, I’ll walk you through the steps to get it moist, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible.

Essential Baking Tips for a Moist Cake

If there’s one thing I learned from my first attempt at baking this cake, it’s that moisture is key. A dry cake is a disappointment, but follow these simple tips, and you’ll have a soft, tender cake every time:

✅ Use buttermilk or sour cream – These add moisture and richness.
✅ Don’t overmix the batter – Overmixing leads to a dense, tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
✅ Measure flour correctly – Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping to avoid using too much.
✅ Don’t overbake! – Check your cake at the 25-minute mark with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done.

How to Use Butter Pecan Cake Mix for a Shortcut

Want to make things a little easier? You can use a butter pecan cake mix as a base and elevate it with homemade ingredients.

Here’s how to upgrade a cake mix for a homemade taste:

1️⃣ Use milk instead of water – Adds richness.
2️⃣ Add an extra egg – Creates a more structured, bakery-style texture.
3️⃣ Use melted butter instead of oil – For deeper flavor.
4️⃣ Fold in toasted pecans – This takes the cake mix from average to amazing!

Now, let’s go step by step and bake the best Southern butter pecan cake!

Ingredients You’ll Need:

🔹 Toasted Pecans

• 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting)

🔹 Cake Batter

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk (or sour cream)
• 1 ½ cups toasted pecans (from earlier)

🔹 Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake the Cake

🔹 Step 1: Prepare the Cake Pans

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or line them with parchment paper).

🔹 Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

1️⃣ In a medium bowl, whisk together:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
  2️⃣ Set aside.

🔹 Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars

1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
2️⃣ Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3️⃣ Stir in vanilla extract.

🔹 Step 4: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

1️⃣ Add half of the flour mixture to the butter mixture.
2️⃣ Pour in half of the buttermilk.
3️⃣ Mix gently, then repeat with the remaining flour and buttermilk. Do not overmix.

🔹 Step 5: Fold in Toasted Pecans

1️⃣ Gently fold in 1 ½ cups of toasted pecans, making sure they are evenly distributed.

🔹 Step 6: Bake!

1️⃣ Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3️⃣ Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.

Your Butter Pecan Cake is Baked! What’s Next?

Now that we have a golden, nutty, buttery cake, it’s time to make the best brown sugar cream cheese frosting to take it to the next level.

Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting – The Perfect Topping

A Southern butter pecan cake isn’t complete without the perfect frosting. And trust me, this brown sugar cream cheese frosting is what makes the cake unforgettable!

The first time I had butter pecan cake in Savannah, it wasn’t just the cake that won me over—it was the rich, slightly caramelized, tangy-sweet frosting that made every bite pure magic. I knew then that I couldn’t settle for just any frosting. It had to be creamy, smooth, and full of brown sugar goodness.

This frosting is the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and tangy flavors, with a hint of vanilla that complements the nutty toasted pecans.

Why Brown Sugar Pairs Perfectly with Butter Pecan Cake

Most cream cheese frostings are made with powdered sugar, but brown sugar takes it to the next level. Here’s why:

✅ Adds a caramel-like depth – Brown sugar has molasses, which enhances the buttery pecan flavors.
✅ Keeps the frosting silky smooth – The combination of cream cheese and brown sugar creates a soft, luscious texture.
✅ Perfectly balances sweetness – The tangy cream cheese cuts through the sweetness, making it just right.

How to Make Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

🔹 Ingredients

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (for extra creaminess)

🔹 Step-by-Step Frosting Instructions

Step 1: Beat Cream Cheese & Butter

1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

Step 2: Add Brown Sugar

1️⃣ Gradually add brown sugar, beating until it is fully incorporated.
2️⃣ Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes—this allows the brown sugar to dissolve for a silky texture.

Step 3: Add Powdered Sugar & Vanilla

1️⃣ Slowly add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, while mixing on low speed.
2️⃣ Pour in vanilla extract and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Adjust Consistency

1️⃣ Add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream if needed for a creamier, spreadable consistency.

💡 Pro Tip: If you want a stronger brown sugar flavor, heat the brown sugar and butter in a saucepan for a minute before adding it to the frosting. This creates a deeper caramel-like taste!

How to Frost Your Butter Pecan Cake

1️⃣ Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
2️⃣ Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
3️⃣ Sprinkle toasted pecans on top for decoration and an extra crunch.
4️⃣ Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing to let the frosting set.

This frosting is creamy, rich, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect complement to the buttery cake!

Your Cake is Almost Ready – What’s Next?

Now that we have the cake baked and the frosting ready, it’s time to put it all together and get the full Southern Butter Pecan Cake Recipe in one place!

Get the Recipe – Southern Butter Pecan Cake

Now that we’ve covered everything from toasting pecans to making the best brown sugar cream cheese frosting, it’s time to put it all together and make the ultimate Southern butter pecan cake from start to finish!

This recipe is rich, buttery, and packed with toasted pecans, giving it the perfect combination of crunchy, moist, and creamy textures. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because you love pecans, this cake will become a new favorite.

Southern Butter Pecan Cake Recipe

🔹 Ingredients

For the Toasted Pecans

• 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the Cake

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk (or sour cream)
• 1 ½ cups toasted pecans (from earlier)

For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy cream

🔹 Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

1️⃣ Melt butter in a pan over medium heat and add chopped pecans.
2️⃣ Stir frequently for 5-7 minutes, until they are golden brown and fragrant.
3️⃣ Remove from heat and let them cool completely before using in the cake batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or line with parchment paper).

2️⃣ In a medium bowl, whisk together dry ingredients:

• Flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

3️⃣ In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).

4️⃣ Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.

5️⃣ Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk:

• Add half of the dry ingredients, mix gently.
• Add half of the buttermilk, mix again.
• Repeat with the remaining flour and buttermilk, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix!

6️⃣ Fold in the toasted pecans gently to distribute them evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1️⃣ Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
2️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3️⃣ Let the cakes cool completely in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before frosting.

Step 4: Make the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

1️⃣ In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2️⃣ Add brown sugar and let sit for 5 minutes to allow it to dissolve.
3️⃣ Gradually mix in powdered sugar, one cup at a time.
4️⃣ Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream to achieve a spreadable consistency.

💡 Pro Tip: For an extra caramel-like flavor, melt the brown sugar and butter together before adding to the frosting!

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1️⃣ Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.
2️⃣ Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
3️⃣ Sprinkle with extra toasted pecans for decoration and added crunch.
4️⃣ Chill the cake for 30 minutes before slicing to allow the frosting to set.

Time to Enjoy Your Southern Butter Pecan Cake!

Your cake is now moist, buttery, packed with toasted pecans, and topped with creamy brown sugar frosting—the perfect Southern dessert!

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Butter Pecan Cake

Even the best bakers can run into issues when making a Southern butter pecan cake. From dry cake to soggy pecans, small missteps can affect the final result. Don’t worry—I’ve been there! After several attempts (and learning from my mistakes), I’ve gathered the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them so that your cake turns out perfectly moist, flavorful, and buttery every time.

Mistake #1: Overmixing the Batter

Overmixing is one of the biggest reasons cakes turn out dense or tough. The more you mix, the more gluten develops, leading to a chewy cake instead of a soft, tender crumb.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• After adding the flour, use low speed or gently fold it in with a spatula.
• If using a stand mixer, avoid high speeds once the dry ingredients are added.

Mistake #2: Not Toasting the Pecans Properly

Toasted pecans are the heart of this cake, but if they’re burnt or undercooked, the flavor suffers.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Toast the pecans on medium heat and stir constantly to avoid burning.
• If baking in the oven, check them at the 5-minute mark to prevent over-toasting.
• Let the pecans cool completely before adding them to the batter to maintain their crunch.

Mistake #3: Using Cold Ingredients

If your butter, eggs, or buttermilk are cold, the batter won’t mix properly, resulting in a cake that doesn’t rise well.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Let butter, eggs, and buttermilk sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before baking.
• Cold butter won’t cream properly with sugar, so make sure it’s softened but not melted.

Mistake #4: Overbaking the Cake

Overbaking is a cake’s worst enemy. A few extra minutes in the oven can turn a moist cake into a dry one.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Set a timer for 25 minutes and check with a toothpick—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
• Remember that cakes continue cooking slightly even after being removed from the oven.
• If the edges start pulling away from the pan, it’s a sign the cake is done.

Mistake #5: Choosing the Wrong Frosting

Some butter pecan cakes use buttercream instead of cream cheese frosting, but this can make the cake too sweet and overpower the pecans.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Stick to a brown sugar cream cheese frosting for the perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
• If you prefer a lighter frosting, use whipped cream frosting instead of buttercream.

Mistake #6: Not Letting the Cake Cool Before Frosting

If the cake is still warm, the frosting will melt and create a sticky mess.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Let the cake cool completely before applying frosting.
• If you’re in a hurry, place the cake layers in the fridge for 15 minutes before frosting.

Mistake #7: Skipping the Extra Toasted Pecans on Top

The cake is delicious on its own, but extra toasted pecans on top of the frosting add crunch, texture, and presentation.

✅ How to Fix It:

• Sprinkle a handful of toasted pecans over the frosted cake for that extra wow factor.
• Lightly press the pecans into the frosting so they stay in place.

Final Pro Tip: Let the Cake Rest Before Serving

A freshly frosted cake is delicious, but if you let it rest for at least 30 minutes, the flavors meld together, and the frosting sets beautifully.

Now that we’ve covered the biggest mistakes and fixes, it’s time to answer some frequently asked questions about butter pecan cake!

FAQs About Butter Pecan Cake

Before you start baking, let’s clear up some common questions about butter pecan cake. From flavor pairings to baking secrets, these FAQs will help you perfect your cake and impress everyone with your baking skills!

1. What flavor goes well with butter pecan?

Butter pecan has a rich, nutty, and buttery flavor, which pairs beautifully with:

✅ Caramel – Enhances the toasted pecan notes.
✅ Vanilla – Balances out the richness.
✅ Cinnamon or nutmeg – Adds a warm, cozy spice.
✅ Maple syrup – Complements the sweetness of brown sugar.
✅ Chocolate – A touch of chocolate can add depth to the cake.

👉 Pro Tip: If you want to add extra flavor, try drizzling warm caramel sauce over the frosted cake for a decadent finish.

2. Is butter pecan just vanilla with pecans?

Not at all! While vanilla is one of the ingredients, butter pecan has a deeper, richer flavor thanks to toasted pecans, butter, and brown sugar. The nutty, caramel-like taste is what sets it apart from a simple vanilla cake with pecans.

3. What is the secret to a super moist cake?

A dry cake is every baker’s nightmare, but here’s how to keep your butter pecan cake moist and tender:

✅ Use buttermilk or sour cream – Adds moisture and richness.
✅ Measure flour correctly – Too much flour makes cakes dry. Always spoon and level instead of scooping.
✅ Don’t overmix the batter – Stir until just combined to avoid a dense texture.
✅ Watch the bake time – Overbaking leads to a dry cake. Check at the 25-minute mark with a toothpick.

👉 Pro Tip: After baking, wrap the warm cake layers in plastic wrap and let them cool. This locks in moisture before frosting.

4. What’s the difference between butterscotch and butter pecan?

Many people confuse butterscotch and butter pecan, but they are different:

👉 Bottom Line: If you love caramel flavors, you’ll enjoy both, but butter pecan adds that signature nutty crunch!

5. What kind of frosting goes on butter pecan cake?

The best frosting for butter pecan cake is brown sugar cream cheese frosting because it balances the flavors without overpowering the pecans.

Other great options:

✔️ Maple cream cheese frosting – Adds a sweet maple twist.
✔️ Caramel buttercream – Pairs beautifully with the nutty flavors.
✔️ Whipped cream frosting – A lighter option if you prefer less sweetness.

👉 Pro Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped toasted pecans over the frosting before serving.

Now that we’ve covered everything you need to know about butter pecan cake, it’s time for the final thoughts!

A Southern Butter Pecan Cake Made for True Pecan Lovers

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• Author: HALA
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This Southern Butter Pecan Cake is rich, buttery, and packed with toasted pecans for the perfect crunch. Topped with a luscious brown sugar cream cheese frosting, it’s a decadent dessert that’s moist, flavorful, and irresistible. Whether for a special occasion or just because you love pecans, this cake is sure to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

 For the Toasted Pecans:

• 1 ½ cups pecans, chopped
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

🔹 For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk (or sour cream)
• 1 ½ cups toasted pecans (from earlier)

🔹 For the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy cream

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Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

1️⃣ Melt butter in a pan over medium heat and add chopped pecans.
2️⃣ Stir frequently for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and fragrant.
3️⃣ Remove from heat and let cool completely before adding to the cake batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1️⃣ Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans (or line with parchment paper).
2️⃣ In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3️⃣ In a separate large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2 minutes).
4️⃣ Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5️⃣ Gradually add dry ingredients and buttermilk, alternating between the two. Do not overmix.
6️⃣ Gently fold in 1 ½ cups toasted pecans.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1️⃣ Divide batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2️⃣ Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3️⃣ Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Step 4: Make the Brown Sugar Cream Cheese Frosting

1️⃣ In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2️⃣ Add brown sugar and let sit for 5 minutes to dissolve.
3️⃣ Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and beat until fluffy.
4️⃣ Stir in vanilla extract and heavy cream for a smooth consistency.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1️⃣ Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.
2️⃣ Add the second layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
3️⃣ Sprinkle extra toasted pecans on top for decoration.
4️⃣ Let the cake chill for 30 minutes before slicing.

Notes

Pro Tip: For extra caramel flavor, melt the brown sugar and butter together before adding to the frosting!

💡 Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 1 day or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

💡 Make-Ahead: The cake layers can be baked a day in advance and stored wrapped in plastic until ready to frost.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 480 kcal
• Sugar: 39g
• Sodium: 190mg
• Fat: 26g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: Butter pecan cake, butter pecan cake recipe, butter pecan cake mix, butter pecan frosting, Southern butter pecan cake, moist butter pecan cake

Final Thoughts & Why You Should Try This Recipe Today!

Baking a Southern butter pecan cake is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating a cake that’s rich in flavor, texture, and nostalgia. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a holiday, or just because you’re craving something buttery and nutty, this cake never disappoints.

I still think back to that evening in Savannah, where I had my first bite of butter pecan cake. That moment—surrounded by friends, enjoying a slice of warm, nutty cake with its creamy frosting—stuck with me. That’s the magic of this cake. It’s not just about taste; it’s about the memories it creates.

Why You Should Try This Recipe Today

✔️ Perfectly moist and buttery – No dry cake here!
✔️ Packed with toasted pecans – That crunchy, nutty goodness in every bite.
✔️ The BEST brown sugar cream cheese frosting – A creamy, caramel-like topping that makes it irresistible.
✔️ Great for any occasion – Whether it’s a birthday, Thanksgiving, or just a weekend treat, this cake always impresses.
✔️ Easy to customize – Want extra pecans? A caramel drizzle? A touch of cinnamon? You can make it your own!

💡 Pro Tip: This cake tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store it covered in the fridge overnight and enjoy a chilled, creamy slice the next day!

Ready to Bake Your Own Southern Butter Pecan Cake?

Now that you have the full guide, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start baking! Whether you’re an experienced baker or trying this for the first time, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Let me know how it turns out—and don’t forget to share your butter pecan cake experience!

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