Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you’ve stumbled onto the right recipe! This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is one of my all-time favorites. It’s perfectly sweet, delightfully gooey in the center, and topped with crunchy pecans that add just the right amount of texture. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this cake is sure to impress everyone at the table.

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to whip up. You can have it in the oven in no time, and your home will be filled with the heavenly aroma of baking butter and sugar. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike adore!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll be amazed at how quickly this cake comes together.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids will love its sweet gooiness, while adults will appreciate its rich flavor. It’s perfect for everyone!
• Make-ahead convenience: Bake it ahead of time and store it for later; it tastes even better the next day!
• Versatile dessert: Great for any occasion—birthdays, potlucks, or just because you deserve a treat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! The best part? They are simple and wholesome. Here’s what you’ll need to create this 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)

For the Topping

• Browned butter from earlier step
• 1 whole egg, softened
• 1 egg yolk, softened
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla essence
• (Optional) 1 tablespoon bourbon
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, softened (120 ml)
• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some chocolate chips: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for an extra layer of decadence.
• Try different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you’re in the mood for something different.
• Citrus twist: Add some lemon or orange zest to brighten up the flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a tasty alternative.

How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pecans

In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the salted butter. Once melted and slightly browned, add the chopped pecans and toast them until golden. This step brings out their flavor and adds a lovely crunch!

Step 3: Cream Together Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth. Then mix in the sugars—this creates that wonderfully gooey texture we love! Add in your eggs one at a time along with vanilla essence and mix until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly incorporate these dry ingredients into your wet mixture until just combined. Don’t overmix; we want that perfect gooeyness!

Step 5: Pour Into Pan

Pour your batter into a greased baking dish or pan. Sprinkle those toasted pecans on top—this will give you that delightful crunch when you take a bite!

Step 6: Bake Your Cake

Bake for about 60 minutes or until golden brown on top. A toothpick should come out clean from the edges but might still have some gooeyness from the center—that’s just how we like it!

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let your cake cool for about 10-15 minutes before cutting into it. Serve warm with whipped cream or enjoy it as is—you really can’t go wrong!

Now you have everything you need to make this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake shine at your next gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Making a gooey butter pecan cake is a delightful adventure, and with a few handy tips, you’ll ensure it turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Having your butter and cream cheese at room temperature helps them blend more smoothly, creating that luscious texture we all crave.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and airy. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake that doesn’t have that signature gooeyness.

• Toast Your Pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.

• Check for Doneness: Every oven is different! Start checking your cake about 10 minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

• Let It Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps set the gooey center while making it easier to slice.

How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

When it comes to serving your delicious gooey butter pecan cake, presentation is key! This cake not only tastes divine but also looks enticing on any dessert table. Here are some ideas on how you can make your cake shine even brighter.

Garnishes

• Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the rich flavors of the cake.

• Whipped Coconut Cream: For a dairy-free alternative, top the cake with fluffy whipped coconut cream. It complements the nuttiness of pecans beautifully.

• Chopped Fresh Pecans: Sprinkle some chopped pecans on top right before serving for an extra crunch and a visual appeal that stands out.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully with warm cake, providing a contrasting coolness that enhances each bite.

• Fresh Berries: A mix of strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries adds freshness and tartness that balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice can elevate this dessert experience to new heights; it’s an indulgent treat!

• Coffee or Tea: Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a comforting end to your meal—perfect for those cozy afternoons or gatherings with friends.

Enjoy crafting this delicious treat and watching your loved ones savor every gooey bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or just to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• For best taste, enjoy within the first few days.

Freezing

• Cut the cake into individual slices for easier thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date so you can keep track!

Reheating

• To reheat, remove a slice from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until heated through.
• Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries to help you out.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans in this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

Absolutely! You can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just make sure they’re chopped finely for even distribution.

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

The cake should be set along the edges but slightly gooey in the center. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs attached but not wet batter.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all your other ingredients are gluten-free as well!

What should I serve with my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

This cake is delightful on its own, but you can pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake as much as I do! It’s such a special recipe that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re indulging alone or sharing with loved ones, this cake is sure to be a hit. Don’t hesitate to try it out—I’m excited for you to dig in!