Description
Pecan Layer Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
For the Frosting:
250g cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
For Garnish:
Whole pecans
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk. Fold in chopped pecans.
5. Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let them cool completely.
6. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract.
7. Assemble the cake by spreading frosting between layers and over the top and sides. Garnish with whole pecans.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed steps for a perfect cake. First, ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for proper emulsification. When creaming the butter and sugar, beat for a full 3-5 minutes until pale and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each to incorporate air. When adding dry and wet ingredients, start and end with the dry mixture (dry-wet-dry-wet-dry) to prevent curdling. Gently fold in pecans with a spatula. For even layers, weigh your batter in each pan. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Serving Suggestions
This rich cake pairs beautifully with a cup of strong coffee or a glass of cold milk. For a dessert plate, add a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. A drizzle of warm caramel or bourbon sauce over the slice elevates it for special occasions. Garnish with a light dusting of powdered sugar or candied pecans for extra texture and presentation.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Prepare three 8-inch pans and preheat your oven. Mix dry ingredients. Cream butter and sugar, then incorporate eggs and vanilla. Alternately add dry mix and buttermilk, then fold in pecans. Bake, cool completely, and prepare frosting by beating cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla. Frost the cooled layers and garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, the unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to a month. Thaw before frosting. The frosted cake keeps in the fridge for 3 days.
What can I use instead of buttermilk? Make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I prevent my pecans from sinking? Toss the chopped pecans in 1-2 tablespoons of the measured flour before folding them in. This coats them and helps suspend them in the batter.
My frosting is too runny. How can I fix it? Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened, not melted. Chill the mixture for 20 minutes, then re-beat. If needed, add a small amount of extra powdered sugar to thicken.
Can I use a different nut? Absolutely. Walnuts make an excellent substitute, offering a similar texture and robust flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold ingredients, which can cause the batter to separate.
- Overmixing the batter after adding flour, which develops gluten and leads to a tough cake.
- Frosting a warm cake, which will cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
- Not properly greasing and flouring the pans, risking stuck cakes.
- Overbaking; check a few minutes before the timer ends as oven temperatures vary.
Conclusion
This Pecan Layer Cake is a show-stopping dessert that balances rich, nutty flavors with a luxuriously creamy frosting. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently create a bakery-quality cake at home. Its make-ahead flexibility and elegant presentation make it perfect for celebrations or a delightful weekend treat. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!