Pecan Cake Recipe | Easy & Delicious Homemade Pecan Cake

Introduction

Warm, nutty, and incredibly satisfying, pecan cake is more than just a dessert. It’s a celebration of comfort, tradition, and the unmistakable flavor of roasted pecans. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a holiday feast, or simply indulging your sweet tooth on a quiet afternoon, this pecan cake recipe brings something special to the table.

What makes pecan cake so irresistible is the unique combination of rich, buttery cake and the earthy crunch of pecans in every bite. This cake offers a lovely contrast in texture—moist and tender on the inside with a golden crust that’s delicately crisp. The beauty of it lies not only in the flavor but also in how adaptable it is. You can dress it up with cream cheese frosting, keep it simple with a dusting of powdered sugar, or even drizzle it with caramel for extra decadence.

Baking a homemade pecan cake may sound like a task for experienced bakers, but the process is actually straightforward. The ingredients are easy to find, and the steps are clear enough for beginners. In fact, once you’ve made it the first time, you might find yourself making it again—this time from memory. That’s how memorable it is.

So grab your apron, preheat the oven, and get ready to experience a slice of Southern charm. This pecan cake recipe will walk you through every step, from ingredients to serving tips, ensuring your cake turns out perfect every single time.

Ingredients Needed

Below is a list of the ingredients you’ll need to prepare a classic pecan cake, along with their approximate calorie count. This recipe serves about 10 slices.

Ingredient	Quantity	Calories per Serving
All-purpose flour	2 cups	910
Granulated sugar	1.5 cups	1160
Eggs	4 large	320
Unsalted butter (softened)	1 cup (2 sticks)	1620
Baking powder	2 teaspoons	10
Whole milk	1 cup	150
Chopped pecans	1.5 cups	1020
Vanilla extract	2 teaspoons	25
Salt	0.5 teaspoon	0
Optional: Cinnamon	1 teaspoon	6

Total approximate calories for the entire cake: 5221
Per slice (based on 10 servings): 522 calories

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease and flour a 9-inch round or square baking pan. You can also line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial because it helps incorporate air, making the cake tender and well-risen.

3. Add the Eggs One at a Time
Crack in one egg, beat until fully incorporated, then add the next. Repeat until all four eggs are mixed in. This gradual process keeps the batter smooth and prevents curdling.

4. Mix in the Vanilla Extract
Pour in the vanilla extract and mix it into the batter. This gives the cake a sweet, warm aroma that complements the nuttiness of the pecans.

5. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon if you’re using it. The cinnamon adds a subtle spice that pairs beautifully with the pecans.Discover even more flavors in No Bake Strawberry Cheesecake

6. Alternate Adding Milk and Flour Mixture
Add a third of the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, then pour in some milk. Alternate between the two until everything is mixed in, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Don’t overmix—just stir until combined.

7. Fold in the Chopped Pecans
Using a spatula, gently fold in the chopped pecans. Save a handful for sprinkling on top before baking for an extra crunch.

8. Pour into Pan and Bake
Spread the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Sprinkle the reserved pecans over the top and place in the oven. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Add a Glaze or Frosting
For a sweeter finish, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk over the top. Cream cheese frosting also pairs well, especially for special occasions.

Mix in Other Nuts
Walnuts or almonds can be used alongside or instead of pecans if you want to change the flavor profile slightly.

Make it Spiced
Add nutmeg or cloves for a warm, spiced version that’s perfect for the holidays.

Add Dried Fruit
Chopped dates or raisins blend nicely with pecans and give the cake a slightly chewy texture.

Turn it into Cupcakes
Divide the batter into a muffin tin and reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes for delicious pecan cupcakes.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)

This nutritional profile makes pecan cake a rich dessert best enjoyed in moderation. The high fat and calorie content is largely due to the butter and pecans, which also provide essential nutrients like Vitamin E, magnesium, and healthy fats.

Serving Suggestions

Pecan cake is versatile and can be served in many ways:

• Warm with vanilla ice cream: The contrast between warm cake and cold ice cream is irresistible.
• With a cup of coffee or tea: Perfect for afternoon snacking or brunch gatherings.
• Drizzled with caramel sauce: For extra decadence, add a buttery caramel drizzle over the top before serving.
• Topped with whipped cream: A light topping adds freshness without overpowering the flavor of the pecans.
• Served plain: It’s delicious even without any extras, letting the pecan flavor shine.

For parties, you can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It also travels well if you need to bring it to a potluck or family dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar gives the cake a deeper, molasses-like flavor. You can substitute part or all of the granulated sugar with light or dark brown sugar.

Do I need to toast the pecans beforehand?
Toasting the pecans before folding them into the batter enhances their flavor. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 6–8 minutes until fragrant.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. The texture may be slightly different, but it still tastes great.

How should I store leftovers?
Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week.

Can I freeze pecan cake?
Yes. Slice the cake and wrap each piece in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Conclusion

Nothing compares to the warm, buttery flavor of a homemade pecan cake. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both nostalgic and exciting every time you bake it. Whether you keep it simple or add your own creative twist, it’s a dessert that delivers every time.