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Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake

Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake
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Vanilla Butter Pecan Cake is a rich, moist dessert combining the warm, inviting flavors of vanilla and butter with the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. This classic cake features a tender crumb, enhanced by smooth butter and aromatic vanilla, with toasted pecans folded throughout for texture. Perfect for any occasion, it pairs beautifully with various frostings or enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Soften the butter to room temperature. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant and lightly browned to enhance their flavor.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: Using a mixer, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is fluffy and pale, ensuring a light cake texture.
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add the pure vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly after each addition for a smooth batter.
  4. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
  5. Alternate Adding Flour and Milk: Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture in alternating batches, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. This preserves the batter’s airiness and promotes even texture.
  6. Fold in Toasted Pecans: Gently fold the toasted pecans into the batter to distribute them evenly without deflating the mixture.
  7. Bake Until Golden: Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool before frosting or serving.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smooth blending and a tender crumb.
  • Toast pecans thoroughly but avoid burning to maximize flavor and crunch.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and avoid toughness.
  • Check oven temperature with a thermometer for consistent baking results.
  • Try cream cheese or brown butter frosting for complementary flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: vanilla butter pecan cake, pecan cake, vanilla cake, butter cake, toasted pecans, homemade cake, classic dessert

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/vanilla-butter-pecan-cake/