Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, then you need to try this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! This recipe has been a family favorite for years, and it always brings back memories of cozy gatherings and sweet laughter. With its rich, gooey texture and crunchy pecan topping, this cake is perfect for everything from busy weeknights to special celebrations. Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll understand why this cake holds such a special place in my heart!

Whether you’re baking for a family get-together or just want to treat yourself to something delightful, this cake is sure to please everyone. The best part? It’s simple enough that even novice bakers can whip it up with ease. Get ready for some serious flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This recipe is straightforward with simple steps, making it perfect for any skill level.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the gooey texture and delicious pecan flavor.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can bake this cake in advance and enjoy it later—just warm it up for that fresh-from-the-oven taste!
• Rich flavor: The combination of butter and cream cheese creates a wonderfully rich taste that is hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, you only need a few simple and wholesome ingredients. I love how accessible they are—no fancy items here! Let’s gather what we need:

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
• (Optional) 1 tablespoon bourbon
• 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

One of the best things about this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is how flexible the recipe can be! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to personalize it further, here are some fun variation ideas:

• Add chocolate chips: For an extra indulgent treat, mix in some semi-sweet chocolate chips.
• Switch up the nuts: Don’t have pecans? Feel free to use walnuts or almonds instead!
• Make it fruity: Add some fresh blueberries or sliced strawberries into the batter for a fruity twist.
• Try different extracts: Experiment with almond or hazelnut extract instead of vanilla for unique flavors.

How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Having everything ready before you begin makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake!

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt your salted butter until it begins to turn golden brown. This step adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of your cake. Be sure to watch it closely—it can go from perfect to burnt quickly!

Step 3: Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine your browned butter with softened cream cheese and unsalted butter. Beat them together until smooth and creamy. This mixture is key because it creates that deliciously gooey texture we love in this cake!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Sugar

Next, add in your eggs (both whole and yolk), icing sugar, and granulated sugar. Mix until everything is well blended. This step also helps incorporate air into the batter which contributes to our cake’s lightness.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together your flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add these dry ingredients into your wet mixture while mixing continuously. This will help avoid lumps in your batter!

Step 6: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter. These nuts will provide that delightful crunch we crave in every slice.

Step 7: Pour into Pan

Pour your cake batter into a greased baking pan and smooth out the top with a spatula. Make sure it’s evenly spread out so that it bakes perfectly!

Step 8: Bake Away!

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for about an hour or until golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, allow it to cool slightly before slicing into squares. Patience is key here—let those gooey layers settle just a bit! Enjoy every bite of your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can elevate your gooey butter pecan cake to the next level!

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensuring that your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature helps them blend smoothly, creating a light and airy texture in your cake.

• Toast the pecans: Lightly toasting the chopped pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor, bringing out that rich nuttiness that complements the sweetness of the cake beautifully.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing just until combined is key! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake rather than the desired gooey consistency.

• Check your oven temperature: Oven temperatures can vary, so it’s wise to use an oven thermometer. Baking at the right temperature ensures even cooking and helps avoid a dry cake.

• Cool completely before slicing: Allowing your cake to cool fully lets it set up properly, making it easier to cut those perfect gooey pieces without falling apart.

How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Presenting your delicious gooey butter pecan cake can make it even more enjoyable. Whether for a gathering or just a cozy night in, here are some ideas!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a creamy contrast and balances out the sweetness of the cake.
• Chopped toasted pecans: Sprinkling some on top not only enhances presentation but also adds extra crunch and flavor.
• Caramel drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce elevates this dessert further and provides an indulgent finishing touch.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits helps cut through the richness of the cake while adding vibrant flavors.
• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts slightly on warm cake, creating a delightful combination of textures and flavors.
• Coffee or tea: Serving hot coffee or tea alongside your dessert offers a comforting complement that balances sweetness with warm undertones.
• Chocolate sauce: For chocolate lovers, a side of warm chocolate sauce for dipping takes this dessert experience over the top!

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake will surely impress friends and family alike. 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 and enjoy it later without losing its delightful gooeyness. Here’s how to store it properly for the best results.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• Ensure the cake is completely cooled before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped cake in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

• For individual slices, microwave on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• To reheat the whole cake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired!

FAQs

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

Can I make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake without eggs?

Yes! You can use a flaxseed meal as an egg substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water; let it sit until it thickens, then use it as you would one egg in the recipe.

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

The cake is done when the edges are slightly puffed and golden, while the center may still be soft but not jiggly. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out with moist crumbs, not wet batter.

Can I add other nuts to my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

Absolutely! While pecans bring a lovely flavor, you can mix in walnuts or almonds for added texture and taste if you like!

What’s the best way to serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

Serve it warm with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. It’s also delightful with whipped cream!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a sweet hug that brings warmth and happiness to any gathering. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a slice all by yourself, this cake promises to be memorable. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations!