Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is just the ticket! This cake has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of family gatherings filled with laughter and sweet memories. The gooey center combined with the crunch of pecans creates a heavenly texture that everyone will adore. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive celebration, this cake is sure to steal the show.

What makes this cake truly special is how easy it is to whip up. You can serve it as an indulgent treat after dinner or bring it along to share at potlucks and parties. Trust me, your friends and family will ask you for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With just 30 minutes of prep, you can have this cake in the oven before you know it!
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike love the rich, gooey texture paired with crunchy pecans.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm with ice cream or at room temperature – it’s delicious either way!
• Make Ahead Convenience: You can bake this cake ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve.
• Impressive Presentation: The beautiful golden crust and decadent filling make it look like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is simple with these wholesome ingredients! Each one contributes to that perfect balance of gooeyness and nuttiness that we love. Let’s gather what you need:

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

For the Filling

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
• 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)

For Topping

• 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

This recipe is flexible enough to suit your tastes! Here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Stir in some chocolate chips for an extra layer of sweetness.
• Change the Nuts: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice kick.
• Fruit Twist: Toss in some chopped apples or pears for added moisture and flavor.

How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. It’s important to have everything ready so you can mix them quickly. This also helps ensure that your butter and cream cheese are nice and soft—perfect for blending smoothly!

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt your salted butter until it turns golden brown. This step adds a delightful nutty flavor that elevates your cake from good to incredible! Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese and Sugars

In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese and granulated sugars until creamy. This creates the rich base of your cake. Don’t rush this step; mixing well ensures there are no lumps!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add in your eggs, egg yolk, and vanilla essence. Beat until fully incorporated. This adds moisture and richness that makes this cake so gooey!

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to your creamy batter while mixing on low speed until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans with a spatula. They add an incredible crunch that contrasts beautifully with the gooey center.

Step 7: Pour into Pan

Pour your batter into a greased baking dish. Spread evenly and give it a little shake to level it out.

Step 8: Bake Your Cake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour or until golden brown on top. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma!

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing into it—if you can resist! Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for an unforgettable treat.

Enjoy every delicious bite of your Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! It’s bound to become a favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Baking can be a delightful adventure, and with these pro tips, you’ll ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allowing your eggs, cream cheese, and buttermilk to come to room temperature helps create a smoother batter, ensuring even baking and a gooey texture.

• Don’t Skip the Browning Step: Browning the butter adds a rich, nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of your cake. It’s an extra step worth taking!

• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can often run hotter or cooler than the set temperature. Consider using an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking – this helps prevent overcooking or undercooking.

• Let It Cool Before Serving: After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for a while before transferring it to a wire rack. This allows it to set properly and prevents it from breaking apart.

• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t be afraid to switch up toppings or add-ins! A sprinkle of sea salt or some chocolate drizzle can take your cake from delicious to extraordinary.

How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Serving your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this delightful dessert at your next gathering.

Garnishes

• Chopped Pecans: Toasted chopped pecans add a lovely crunch and reinforce the nutty flavor of the cake.
• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream brings lightness and complements the gooey texture beautifully.
• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over individual slices creates an indulgent experience that everyone will love.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream with warm cake creates a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
• Fresh Berries: A side of fresh strawberries or raspberries adds brightness and acidity, balancing the richness of the cake.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea alongside enhances the flavors and provides a comforting touch.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits offers a light complement that offsets the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Now that you have everything you need for serving up this scrumptious treat, it’s time to enjoy 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, store it properly, and enjoy its rich flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat for about 20-30 seconds or until warm.
• Alternatively, you can reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake!

Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?

Yes! While pecans add a unique flavor, you can substitute with walnuts or even almonds if you prefer.

How do I make this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake gluten-free?

To make this cake gluten-free, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that can be used as a one-to-one substitute.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using low-fat cream cheese will work just fine, though it may affect the texture slightly. The flavor will still be delicious!

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

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re excited to whip up this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! It’s not just a treat; it’s an experience filled with warmth and joy. Enjoy savoring every gooey bite, and don’t hesitate to share it with family and friends. Happy baking!