Description
Indulge in the ultimate dessert with this decadent Pecan Pie Layer Cake! Combining the rich, nutty flavors of a classic pecan pie with the moist, fluffy layers of a cake, this show-stopping dessert is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or just when you’re craving something truly indulgent. With a buttery cake, sweet pecan filling, and a drizzle of caramel sauce, this layered masterpiece will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the pecan filling:
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2–3 tbsp heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)
For the caramel sauce (optional):
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
-
Prepare the cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. -
Mix the wet and dry ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. -
Bake the cakes:
Divide the batter evenly between the two cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove from the pans and let them cool completely on a wire rack. -
Make the pecan filling:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, corn syrup, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly. Stir in the chopped pecans and set aside to cool. -
Make the frosting:
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream, adjusting the amount of cream to reach your desired frosting consistency. -
Assemble the cake:
Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of the pecan filling over the top, leaving a small border around the edges. Place the second cake layer on top, pressing gently. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the buttercream frosting. -
Make the caramel sauce (optional):
In a small saucepan, melt the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in a pinch of salt. -
Finish the cake:
Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cake and garnish with additional chopped pecans. Slice, serve, and enjoy the sweet, nutty layers of this incredible cake!
Notes
- This cake can be made ahead of time. Store the finished cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra flavor, you can toast the pecans before adding them to the filling.
- If you prefer a lighter frosting, you can use whipped cream instead of buttercream.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg