Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the rich flavors of pecans and creamy textures in every bite. This cake is perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply treating yourself. Its gooey center and crunchy topping make it a standout choice for any occasion, sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Irresistible Flavor – The combination of buttery goodness and nutty pecans creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Easy to Make – With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this cake is accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Versatile Dessert – Enjoy it warm with ice cream or at room temperature, making it a perfect treat for any season.
• Impressive Presentation – The glossy top and rich filling make this cake visually stunning, ideal for special occasions.
• Comfort Food Classic – This gooey butter cake brings a sense of nostalgia, reminding everyone of home-baked goodness.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer – Ensures that your batter is mixed thoroughly for a light and fluffy texture.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Provide accurate measurements for consistent results every time you bake.

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Ingredients

For the Cake Base

• 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

For the Cream Layer

• 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

How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Pan

Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with some butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Cake Base Ingredients

In a mixing bowl:
1. Beat together the salted butter and cream cheese until smooth.
2. Add in the whole egg and egg yolk, mixing until well combined.
3. Gradually add icing sugar while mixing on low speed until fully incorporated.
4. Combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in another bowl.
5. Slowly mix in dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth.

Step 4: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Base

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until set but still slightly gooey in the center.

Step 6: Prepare Topping Mixture

While the cake bakes:
1. In another bowl, beat together granulated sugar with browned butter.
2. Add in one whole egg and one egg yolk along with vanilla essence; mix until combined.

Step 7: Add Topping to Cake

Once the cake base is baked:
– Pour the topping mixture over the hot cake.
– Return to oven for an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Let your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake cool before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or ice cream if desired!

How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Serving your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake can elevate the overall experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enjoy this cake.

Enjoy it Warm

• Serve slices of the cake warm, straight from the oven. The gooey center will be extra indulgent and comforting.

Pair with Ice Cream

• A scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream on the side complements the rich flavors of the cake beautifully.

Drizzle with Caramel Sauce

• Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce over each slice for an extra dose of sweetness and a lovely presentation.

Dust with Icing Sugar

• Lightly dust the top with icing sugar before serving for a touch of elegance and added sweetness.

How to Perfect Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Perfecting your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake takes a few careful steps. Follow these tips for best results.

• Use softened ingredients: Ensure that all dairy products like butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth batter.

• Toast pecans: Lightly toasting the pecans before adding them enhances their flavor and adds crunch to the cake.

• Check doneness carefully: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter, indicating it’s perfectly baked.

• Cool completely before slicing: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from falling apart when cut.

Best Side Dishes for Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake can enhance your meal. Here are some great options.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of the cake. Use seasonal fruits for best results.

2. Whipped Cream
   Lightly sweetened whipped cream can be dolloped on top or served alongside each slice for added creaminess.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   A yogurt parfait layered with granola and fresh berries offers a healthy contrast to the sweet cake.

4. Coffee or Tea
   A warm cup of coffee or tea pairs wonderfully, helping to balance the sweetness while providing warmth with each bite.

5. Cheese Platter
   A small cheese platter featuring mild cheeses can complement the flavors without overpowering them.

6. Chocolate Mousse
   For chocolate lovers, serving a small portion of chocolate mousse alongside adds an indulgent twist that many will enjoy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, there are common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results.

• Skipping the room temperature ingredients: Ensure your butter and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precision. Incorrect measurements can lead to an imbalanced cake.
• Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined. Overmixing can make the cake tough instead of gooey.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking conditions. An incorrect temperature can affect the cake’s rise and texture.
• Cutting into the cake too soon: Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. This ensures it sets properly and maintains its gooey texture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Keep in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.

Freezing Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about making the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake.

How do I achieve the best gooey texture in my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

To ensure your cake is deliciously gooey, don’t overbake it. The center should be slightly jiggly when you take it out of the oven.

Can I substitute pecans with other nuts?

Yes! Feel free to use walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just keep in mind that this will change the flavor slightly.

What can I use instead of buttermilk?

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

How do I enhance the flavor of my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavors. You might also consider adding chocolate chips for extra richness!

Final Thoughts

The Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is not only rich and decadent but also versatile enough to customize. Whether you prefer different nuts or want to experiment with spices, this recipe invites creativity. Don’t miss out on trying this scrumptious dessert!