Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s sure to impress, look no further than this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! This delightful treat combines the rich flavors of butter and pecans into a luscious cake that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this cake brings warmth and joy to the table. The gooey texture and nutty flavor will make it a favorite among friends and family alike!

What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. It’s one of those delightful desserts that looks fancy but requires minimal effort. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why it has a special place in my heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this cake in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the sweet, gooey goodness—kids and adults will be coming back for seconds!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a potluck or a cozy night in, this cake fits right in.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and pecans creates an irresistible taste that keeps you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients. These pantry staples come together beautifully to create something truly special.

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 Topping

• 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 substitute like vanilla extract
• 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

This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways you can switch things up:

• Add More Nuts: If you’re a nut lover, feel free to mix in walnuts or almonds for added crunch.
• Change the Flavor: Swap in almond extract instead of vanilla for a unique twist on flavor.
• Make It Chocolatey: Mix in some cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate version.
• Top with Fresh Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or sliced bananas on top for a fruity touch!

How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), so it’s warm and ready when you’re finished mixing.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt your salted butter until it turns golden brown and smells nutty. Browning the butter adds depth of flavor to your cake. Be sure not to let it burn!

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese Mixture

In a large bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy. Then add in your eggs—both the whole egg and yolk—and mix until smooth. This creates a rich base that gives your cake its gooey texture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the icing sugar, flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients separately ensures even distribution throughout your batter.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Gradually add the dry mixture to your cream cheese mixture while mixing on low speed. Incorporate everything gently until just combined—this helps maintain that lovely texture you’re aiming for!

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans into your batter. They add wonderful crunch and flavor that complement the gooeyness beautifully.

Step 7: Bake

Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake for about an hour or until golden brown on top. The magic happens here as it bakes—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 8: Cool & Serve

Once baked, allow your cake to cool slightly before serving. This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is best enjoyed warm but is also fantastic at room temperature!

Happy baking! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Baking can be a joyful experience, especially when you have a few tricks up your sleeve to ensure your cake turns out perfectly!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Having your eggs, cream cheese, and buttermilk at room temperature helps to create a smoother batter and ensures even baking. This results in that delightful gooey texture we all love.

• Don’t skip the browning butter: Browning the butter adds a nutty flavor that enhances the richness of the cake. It’s a simple step that takes just a few extra minutes but makes a world of difference.

• Measure your flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to measure flour rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents adding too much flour to your batter, which can lead to a denser cake instead of that perfect gooeyness.

• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary, so start checking your cake about 5–10 minutes before the suggested baking time. You want it to be set around the edges but still slightly gooey in the center.

• Let it cool properly: Allowing the cake to cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack helps maintain its structure and prevents it from falling apart.

How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Presenting your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake beautifully can make all the difference in impressing your guests (or treating yourself!). Here are some ideas:

Garnishes

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle some toasted chopped pecans on top for an added crunch and visual appeal.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream on each slice enhances the luxuriousness of the cake.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling a bit of caramel sauce over the top creates an inviting look and adds an extra layer of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the cake and adds a pop of color to your dessert spread.
• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm gooey cake, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Coffee or tea: A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea complements this sweet treat and makes for an enjoyable pairing during dessert time.
• Chocolate sauce: For those who love chocolate, serving a side of chocolate sauce allows guests to add their own touch to each slice.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy or share this delightful treat! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance and store it, making it a fantastic option for gatherings or simply to enjoy throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Slice the cake into portions for easy thawing.
• Wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw the cake slices overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• To reheat, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds, or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can heat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or even a thick cashew cream for a similar texture and flavor.

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

The cake should be golden brown on top and jiggle slightly in the center. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

Can I use different nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! While pecans add a lovely flavor and texture, you can easily swap them out with walnuts or almonds based on your preference.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing one tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with enough milk to make one cup. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am about trying this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! It’s truly a delightful treat that brings together rich flavors and textures, making it special for any occasion. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or enjoying a slice by yourself, I’m confident you’ll love every bite. Happy baking!