Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent, you’ve come to the right place! This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake has stolen my heart and my taste buds. It’s rich, creamy, and oh-so-delicious, making it perfect for any occasion—whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just treating yourself after a long day. The gooey texture combined with the nutty crunch of pecans is simply irresistible. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make this cake again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delightful dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet, gooey goodness of this cake. It’s bound to be a hit at your next get-together!
• Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance and simply warm it up before serving. It’s an easy way to impress your guests without the last-minute rush.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of buttery pecans and creamy filling makes this cake deliciously unique. Perfect for any season or celebration!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to whip up this delectable cake! Here’s what you’ll need:

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)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, softened (120 ml)

For the Creamy Finish

• 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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Nut Alternatives: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds if you prefer a different nut flavor.
• Add Some Spice: Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist that pairs beautifully with the buttery taste.
• Fruit Infusion: Mix in some fresh berries or banana slices for added sweetness and texture.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking dish well; this will help ensure that your cake comes out perfectly when it’s ready. Gather all your ingredients so that they are within reach. This will make the process smooth and enjoyable!

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy. Gradually add in the icing sugar while mixing well. This creates that signature gooey texture we love! Next, add one whole egg plus one yolk along with vanilla essence. Mix until everything is fully incorporated.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into your wet ingredients while stirring gently. We want to keep that lovely airy texture! Lastly, fold in those chopped pecans for that crunchy goodness.

Step 4: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until it’s golden brown on top and slightly gooey in the center—a little wobble is perfectly okay!

Step 5: Make It Extra Special

While your cake cools slightly, whip together heavy cream with granulated sugar and vanilla essence until soft peaks form. Once cooled down enough not to melt it away, serve slices of cake topped with this luscious whipped cream.

Enjoy every bite of your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! You’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Creating the perfect gooey butter pecan cake can be a delightful adventure, and with a few handy tips, you’ll be on your way to baking success!

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. This ensures a smoother batter and helps achieve that lovely gooey texture.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake, which isn’t what we want for that gooey goodness!

• Toast Your Pecans: Lightly toasting the chopped pecans brings out their natural flavor and adds a wonderful crunch. Just a few minutes in a dry skillet will do the trick!

• Check for Doneness Carefully: Since this cake is meant to be gooey in the center, start checking for doneness about 5-10 minutes before the suggested baking time. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs but not wet batter.

• Let It Cool Completely: Allowing your cake to cool completely before slicing will help it set up nicely. This way, you get clean slices that showcase all that gooey goodness!

How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

This delicious gooey butter pecan cake is not only delectable but also makes for an eye-catching centerpiece at any gathering. Here are some fun ways to present it:

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a lightness that beautifully balances the richness of the cake.
• Chopped Toasted Pecans: Sprinkling additional toasted pecans on top adds texture and enhances the nutty flavor of the cake.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce elevates this dessert to new heights, adding an extra layer of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Scoop some creamy vanilla ice cream alongside your slice for a classic pairing that’s simply irresistible.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving warm beverages like coffee or tea complements the sweetness of the cake and offers a comforting touch.
• Chocolate Sauce: A side of warm chocolate sauce gives guests an option for an added indulgence, perfect for chocolate lovers!

Now you’re all set to enjoy your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a festive celebration, this treat is sure to impress everyone at the table. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is not only scrumptious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and enjoy the delightful flavors throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cake to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying!

Reheating

• To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can warm slices in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about making this delicious dessert? Here are some common inquiries!

What makes the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake so special?

The unique combination of creamy textures from cream cheese and browned butter creates a rich and indulgent flavor. The pecans add a delightful crunch, making every bite unforgettable!

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans in this cake?

Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, you can substitute them with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them roughly and follow the same measurements.

How should I serve my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

This cake is delicious on its own or served with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness. Pair it with whipped cream or a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a delightful dessert experience!

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with reducing the sugar slightly. However, keep in mind that it may affect the texture and sweetness of your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake as much as I do! It’s a special treat that brings warmth and sweetness to any occasion. Enjoy baking, savoring each gooey bite, and sharing it with loved ones. Happy baking!