Have you ever stumbled upon a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening? That’s exactly what I felt the first time I baked this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake. With its creamy, gooey center nestled in a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crust, this cake is the epitome of comfort food. What I adore most about this recipe is its simplicity; with just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up something truly divine. Plus, it’s a fantastic crowd-pleaser, perfect for both lively gatherings and intimate family dinners. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or letting it chill in the fridge for a refreshing twist, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delightful treat. Are you ready to make your kitchen smell like a little slice of heaven?
Why is This Cake So Irresistible?
Simplicity: With only a few ingredients, this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is incredibly easy to make—even novice bakers will shine!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The rich combination of buttery goodness and crunchy pecans creates a dessert that captivates everyone’s taste buds, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream for a decadent experience, or chill it for a refreshing treat—either way, it’s a winner!
Gooey Goodness: The creamy center delivers that perfect gooey bite, reminiscent of a classic cheesecake but with a nutty twist.
Cultural Delight: Rooted in Southern tradition, this cake brings a taste of home to your table; try pairing it with Garlic Butter Chicken for a complete meal experience.
Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to use salted butter for added flavor.
• Cream Cheese – Provides a creamy texture for that gooey center; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Whole Egg and Egg Yolk – Binds ingredients together, adding richness; no substitutions recommend for structure.
• Icing Sugar – Sweetens the cake while ensuring a smooth consistency; can substitute with powdered erythritol for a lower-sugar option.
• All-Purpose Flour – Gives the cake its structure; gluten-free flour works well for a gluten-free version.
• Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise; make sure it’s fresh for effective leavening.
• Baking Soda – Pairs with acid to provide lift; no substitutions are needed.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; opt for kosher salt to achieve a balanced taste.
• Chopped Pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; walnuts or almonds can be used as alternatives.
This delicious gooey butter pecan cake is sure to delight anyone who takes a bite! Enjoy your baking journey!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, take a 9×13 inch baking pan and generously grease it with salted butter, ensuring to cover all corners and edges. This will prevent your cake from sticking and help achieve that beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Cream Cheese
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 stick of room temperature unsalted butter and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese. Using an electric mixer, cream these together on medium speed until the mixture is smooth and fluffy, which should take about 2-3 minutes. This step is vital for achieving the rich, gooey texture of your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake.
Step 3: Add Eggs
Next, incorporate one whole egg and one additional egg yolk into the creamed mixture. Mix on medium-low speed until both eggs are fully blended into the batter, ensuring a rich and cohesive consistency. This should only take about 30 seconds; don’t overmix, as you want to maintain the lightness of the batter.
Step 4: Mix in Icing Sugar
Gradually add in 4 cups of icing sugar while mixing on low speed. This avoids a sugar cloud from forming. Continue mixing until all the sugar is fully integrated and the batter becomes silky and thick. This luscious mixture is the key to that delightful gooey center you’re aiming for in your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt until combined. This will help evenly distribute the leavening agents, promoting an even rise in your cake.
Step 6: Fold Dry Ingredients into Wet
Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet batter using a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as you want the batter to remain light and airy. Look for a few flour streaks in the mixture; it’s perfectly okay to stop here, especially for your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake.
Step 7: Add Chopped Pecans
Now it’s time to fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans into your cake batter. Use your spatula to gently mix the nuts throughout, spreading that nutty goodness evenly. This adds the perfect texture contrast to the gooey center of your cake.
Step 8: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, using your spatula to spread it evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes. Start checking at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out with a few moist crumbs, signaling the cake is ready.
Step 9: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, remove the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for at least 10-15 minutes. After cooling, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Waiting ensures the gooey center sets beautifully, making slicing and serving much easier.
What to Serve with Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Indulge in a comforting meal that complements the rich, gooey flavors of your favorite dessert.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness contrasts beautifully with the warm, gooey cake, creating a delightful texture combination. A classic pairing that never disappoints!
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright and refreshing fruits cut through the sweetness, adding a burst of color and healthiness to your dessert table.
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Chocolate Mousse: Rich, velvety chocolate mousse enhances the decadent experience, providing an extra layer of indulgence. It’s a match made in dessert heaven!
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Caramelized Apples: Warm caramelized apples add a hint of spice and sweetness, mirroring the rich flavors of the cake while introducing a lovely, warm topping.
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Pecan Pie Bites: These mini treats echo the nutty richness of your cake, making for an impressive, themed dessert spread.
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Honeyed Greek Yogurt: A dollop of creamy yogurt drizzled with honey provides a tangy and sweet balance, perfect for those seeking a lighter accompaniment.
Let your taste buds dance as you explore these delightful pairings next to your sunny slice of Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake!
How to Store and Freeze Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered with plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its gooey texture.
Fridge: Store leftover cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, reheat individual pieces in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, making sure not to overheat to preserve the gooey goodness of your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake.
Make Ahead Options
These Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cakes are perfect for busy weeknights and can truly save you time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the first seven steps, then cover the bowl tightly and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just allow the batter to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before pouring it into the prepared baking pan and baking as directed. For best quality, do not freeze the batter, as this can affect the cake’s gooey texture. Trust me, this method ensures your cake is just as delicious when baked fresh, delivering all that gooey goodness with very little last-minute effort!
Expert Tips for Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter and cream cheese are at room temperature for a smoother batter—this step is key for your gooey cake.
Measure Accurately: Weighing your ingredients with a kitchen scale helps avoid variations in texture, guiding you to the perfect Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake.
Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to maintain lightness; overmixing can lead to a dense cake that misses the gooey texture you’re aiming for.
Test for Doneness: Check for doneness with a toothpick—remove it when it comes out with a few moist crumbs, signaling a perfect bake and not dry cake.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool before slicing; this enhances the flavors and makes serving a breeze, especially with that delectable gooey center.
Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with this cake, transforming it into a unique treat that suits your taste!
- Nut Alternatives: Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Each nut brings its own unique taste profile, enhancing the overall experience.
- Chocolate Twist: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to provide a rich, indulgent touch. The chocolate melds beautifully with the gooey texture, making each bite even more irresistible.
- Lower-Sugar Option: Replace icing sugar with powdered erythritol to create a lower-sugar version of this delightful cake. Your sweet tooth will still be satisfied without the added calories!
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour. This simple adjustment allows everyone to enjoy the cake without worry.
- Zesty Infusion: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or almond extract to elevate the flavor. A hint of vanilla complements the caramelized pecans perfectly!
- Fruity Addition: Incorporate chopped seasonal fruits like blueberries or raspberries for an exciting burst of flavor. The fruit pairs wonderfully with the gooey center, creating a refreshing contrast.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle a teaspoon of cinnamon in the batter or a cinnamon sugar topping before baking for warm spice undertones. It adds an extra layer of warmth, making this cake feel even more homely.
- Serve with Ice Cream: Elevate the experience by serving warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s a classic combination that brings the cake to life, reminiscent of special occasions.
Enjoy exploring these variations, and don’t forget to consider pairing your delicious creation with Garlic Butter Chicken for a memorable feast!
Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of pecans should I use for this cake?
I recommend using fresh, chopped pecans for the best flavor and texture. Look for pecans that are light in color and free from dark spots or rancidity. You can also substitute them with walnuts or almonds if you’re looking for a different nutty profile.
How can I store leftovers of this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it covered in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you have leftovers beyond that, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Allow the cake to reach room temperature before serving for optimal flavor.
Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing. Make sure to fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently, just until combined. Additionally, ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can affect the rise, resulting in a denser texture.
Can I make substitutions for any ingredients?
Yes! You can use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour and powdered erythritol for a lower-sugar option in place of icing sugar. Depending on your preference, you can also swap out pecans for other nuts like walnuts or almonds for a different flavor twist. Adjusting ingredients can also cater to dietary restrictions, making this cake more versatile!
Is this cake suitable for pets?
This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is not suitable for pets due to ingredients like sugar and butter which can be harmful to them. Always keep such treats out of reach from your furry friends, focusing instead on giving them pet-friendly snacks.
Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake: A Sweet Southern Dream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with salted butter.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 stick of room temperature unsalted butter and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add 1 whole egg and 1 additional egg yolk, mixing on medium-low speed until blended.
- Gradually mix in 4 cups of icing sugar on low speed until fully integrated and the batter is silky and thick.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet batter until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for about 60 minutes, checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
