Name: Buttery Pecan Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup light brown sugar, packed; 4 large eggs; 1 cup sour cream; 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups toasted pecans, chopped; 1 cup light brown sugar (for frosting); ½ cup unsalted butter (for frosting); ¼ cup heavy cream; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)

Rich, nutty, and gloriously moist, this Buttery Pecan Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting is a Southern classic you need in your baking rotation. Toasted pecans folded into a fluffy vanilla batter, layered and finished with a silky brown sugar frosting that melts in your mouth—it’s a dessert that commands attention without trying too hard.

Whether you’re prepping for a fall gathering, a cozy Sunday treat, or a potluck showstopper, this cake delivers. The depth of buttery pecans paired with the caramel warmth of brown sugar frosting is comforting yet indulgent. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s worth turning the oven on.

What Makes a Perfect Buttery Pecan Cake?

The key to this cake is balance: toasted pecans give crunch and richness, while the cake stays tender and light. Use unsalted butter to control salt levels and toast the pecans beforehand for a deeper flavor. Don’t skip the sour cream—it’s the secret to incredible moisture.

Ingredients for the Buttery Pecan Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting

Unsalted Butter: Essential for both the cake and frosting; gives it that rich, creamy base.
Granulated Sugar & Brown Sugar: Sweetens the cake and adds caramel depth in the frosting.
Eggs: Provide structure and richness.
Sour Cream: Keeps the crumb moist and slightly tangy.
All-Purpose Flour: The base for a sturdy yet soft cake.
Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Leavening agents to help the cake rise.
Salt: Enhances overall flavor.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and depth.
Toasted Pecans: The star of the show; add nuttiness and texture.
Heavy Cream: Used in the frosting for a silky consistency.

How To Make the Buttery Pecan Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting

Step 1: Prep the Pecans

Toast your pecans in a dry skillet or oven until golden and fragrant. Let them cool, then chop coarsely.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

Cream together butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in sour cream and vanilla. In another bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. Gradually add dry mixture to wet, then fold in toasted pecans.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Divide batter between greased and floured cake pans. Bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks.

Step 4: Brown Sugar Frosting

In a saucepan, melt butter and stir in brown sugar until dissolved. Add heavy cream and bring to a boil. Let cool slightly, then beat in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Frost cooled cake layers with brown sugar frosting. Decorate with extra pecans if desired.

Serving and Storing This Pecan Cake Delight

Serve this cake at room temperature for best texture and flavor. It holds up beautifully for gatherings and holiday tables. Leftovers can be stored covered at room temp for 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually and thaw when cravings hit.

What to Serve With Buttery Pecan Cake?

Coffee or Latte

A warm drink brings out the cake’s nutty richness.

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

A creamy, cool contrast to the buttery layers.

Bourbon Whipped Cream

Add a kick of Southern flair with a boozy dollop.

Fresh Berries

Lightens up each bite with a hint of tartness.

Apple Cider

A fall-friendly drink pairing.

Caramel Sauce Drizzle

Because more caramel never hurt.

Toasted Coconut Flakes

Add texture and a tropical twist.

Want More Cake Ideas with a Twist?

If this Buttery Pecan Cake got you hooked on nutty, rich desserts, check out these irresistible treats:

Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake if you’re craving more banana goodness.
Lemon Curd Cake for a zesty citrus punch.
Cinnamon Roll Cheesecake if you love warm spice and creamy textures.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Cupcakes for cozy fall flavors.
Twix Cookie Cups if you want a cookie version of caramel bliss.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toast your pecans or add something extra? Maybe a dash of bourbon in the frosting?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

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Buttery Pecan Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting

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Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 12 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

If you’re craving something rich, nutty, and unapologetically indulgent, this Buttery Pecan Cake with Brown Sugar Frosting is exactly what you need. Toasted pecans bring buttery depth, while the soft cake layers and creamy brown sugar frosting offer sweet, caramel-like comfort in every bite. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, fall celebrations, or anytime you want to impress with a homemade dessert. Packed with bold flavor and made with everyday ingredients, this cake is a standout in any collection of quick breakfast ideas, easy dessert recipes, or weekend baking projects.