- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread chopped pecans on a baking sheet and drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway through. Let cool and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans (or one 9×13-inch pan).
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour.
- Stir in vanilla extract, sour cream, and toasted pecans (reserving ½ cup for garnish).
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes (or 35–40 minutes for a 9×13 pan).
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick—if it comes out clean, it’s done.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 4: Make the Butter Pecan Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, beating until fluffy.
- Pour in heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, and beat until well combined.
- Stir in ½ cup toasted pecans for a rich, nutty flavor.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
- Spread a layer of frosting on one cake layer.
- Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake.
- Sprinkle the top with extra toasted pecans for a beautiful finish.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with caramel drizzle for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a hot cup of coffee.
Storage & Freezing:
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap cake layers in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Bake cake layers a day ahead and frost before serving.
Variants & Customization
- Pecan Praline Upgrade: Drizzle homemade praline sauce over the frosting.
- Extra Moist Cake: Replace ¼ cup of sugar with brown sugar for a caramel-like flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute.
- Less Sweet Frosting: Reduce powdered sugar and add more heavy cream.
FAQ
1. Can I use store-bought pecans?
Yes, but toasting them enhances the flavor and makes them extra crunchy.
2. What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can substitute with Greek yogurt or buttermilk for a similar texture.
3. How do I make this into cupcakes?
Divide batter into lined cupcake tins and bake at 350°F for 18–20 minutes.
4. Can I use salted butter?
Yes! Just reduce added salt in the recipe by ½ teaspoon.
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