Few desserts evoke nostalgia and comfort quite like an Old Fashioned Pecan Cake Recipe. This timeless delicacy combines butter with toasted pecans and vanilla for an irresistibly decadent dessert experience – whether baking for an important milestone event or simply seeking some sweet escape! Regardless of its purpose or purposeful indulgence, this recipe promises to transport you into culinary bliss – let’s embark on our adventure into discovering this decadent masterpiece right in our very own kitchens!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup whole milk
For the Pecan Praline:
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Buttercream Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Instructions
Preparing the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 9-inch round cake pans.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mixing Dry Ingredients:
Whisk the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in another bowl until well combined. Gradually incorporate this dry mix into the butter-sugar mixture alternating with milk additions until all dry ingredients have been thoroughly mixed in before proceeding to add further ingredients. Start and end each addition by beginning and ending with dry ingredients – continue this until all dry components have been mixed thoroughly after each addition.
Baking the Cake:
Divide the batter equally among your prepared cake pans and smooth their surfaces before placing in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once removed from the oven, allow your cakes to rest in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto a wire rack for further cooling.
Preparing Pecan Praline:
Toast chopped pecans over medium heat until fragrant and set aside. Meanwhile, melt the butter before combining it with brown sugar and heavy cream until the mixture reaches a boil, stirring continuously throughout.
Remove from heat, stir in toasted pecans and vanilla extract, and allow the praline mixture to cool and thicken over time.
Preparing Buttercream Frosting:
Beat softened butter until creamy and smooth in a mixing bowl, then gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, alternating with milk, until you achieve your desired frosting texture. Finally, mix in vanilla extract.
Assembling the Cake:
To assemble your cake, begin by placing one cake layer on a serving plate and spreading a layer of pecan praline over it.
Repeat these steps with another cake layer until all steps have been completed and frost the entire cake using buttercream frosting.
Garnishing and Serving:
Decorate the top of the cake with extra chopped pecans or pecan halves for an elegant finish, before cutting and serving this unforgettable masterpiece of flavors and textures that harkens back to bygone times.
Conclusion
The Old Fashioned Pecan Cake stands as a testament to the timelessness of traditional recipes. Boasting buttery layers, creamy pecan praline filling, and velvety buttercream frosting – this cake perfectly captures indulgence and craftsmanship. Whether sharing at family gatherings or simply as a personal treat – you can create your own slice of nostalgia in every bite with this timeless recipe! So take up the challenge, gather ingredients together, and embark on an extraordinary culinary adventure that melds both tradition and taste into something truly memorable dessert!
FAQs – Old Fashioned Pecan Cake Recipe
Can I use salted butter for this recipe?
While the recipe calls for unsalted butter, you can use salted butter if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember to adjust the salt content in the recipe accordingly. If you use salted butter, you might want to reduce the additional salt added to the dry ingredients.
Can I substitute a different type of nut for the pecans?
Certainly! While pecans are the classic choice for butter pecan cake, you can experiment with other nuts like walnuts or almonds. Keep in mind that different nuts have varying flavors and textures, so the end result might have a slightly different taste and appearance.
How do I know if the cakes are baked perfectly?
You can perform the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs clinging to it, the cakes are done. Be cautious not to overbake, as this can result in dry cakes.
Can I make the praline ahead of time?
Absolutely. The pecan praline can be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If it becomes too thick, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop to soften it before using.
Is it possible to freeze this cake?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled cake for later enjoyment. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw the cake in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use a different type of frosting?
Certainly. While the buttercream frosting complements the cake’s flavors well, you can use other frostings like cream cheese or whipped cream for a different twist. Just make sure the frosting complements the nutty and buttery flavors of the cake.
How long does this cake stay fresh?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the cake can stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. If you’ve frosted the cake, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator, but allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Can I use a different type of pan for baking?
The recipe specifies using 9-inch round cake pans. If you don’t have these, you can use different sizes or shapes of pans, but be aware that the baking time may need adjustment. Thinner cakes will bake faster, while thicker ones may take longer.
How do I prevent my pecans from burning during toasting?
Toasting nuts can happen quickly, and burned nuts can impart a bitter taste. It’s best to toast them over medium heat, stirring frequently. Keep a close eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they’re fragrant and slightly golden.
Can I make cupcakes using this recipe?
Certainly! This recipe can be adapted for cupcakes. Fill cupcake liners about two-thirds full with batter and adjust the baking time accordingly. Start checking for doneness after about 15-20 minutes.
