Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent, then this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is just the thing! It has a rich, creamy texture that melts in your mouth and a nutty flavor from the pecans that takes it to another level. This cake is perfect for busy weeknights when you need something simple yet impressive, or for family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds. Trust me, once you try this cake, it will become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to make: With just 30 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this cake even on the busiest days!
• Crowd-pleaser: The combination of gooeyness and crunch makes it a favorite among family and friends.
• Flexible flavors: You can easily swap ingredients to fit your taste or dietary needs!
• Make-ahead option: This cake holds well in the fridge, so you can bake it ahead of time and serve later.
• Simple ingredients: Using wholesome pantry staples means you won’t have to make a special trip to the store.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are super simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake. Let’s gather everything you 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 Filling:

• 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
• 1 tablespoon optional bourbon (or substitute with extra vanilla if preferred)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, softened (120 ml)

For the Topping:

• 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! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add different nuts: Swap out pecans for walnuts or almonds for a unique twist!
• Try different extracts: Experiment with almond extract instead of vanilla for an interesting flavor profile.
• Make it chocolatey: Fold in some chocolate chips for an extra treat that chocolate lovers will adore!
• Fruit toppings: Top with fresh berries or banana slices before serving for a fruity kick.

How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch baking dish. This ensures that your cake comes out easily without any sticky surprises.

Step 2: Brown the Butter

In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt your salted butter until it turns golden brown. This process adds a nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake. Keep an eye on it—browned butter can go from perfect to burnt quickly!

Step 3: Mix the Cream Cheese and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese with granulated sugar and icing sugar. Beat until smooth. This step is crucial because it creates a creamy base for your cake that will result in that delightful gooey texture.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Flavorings

Add in one whole egg and one egg yolk along with vanilla essence. Mix until everything is well combined. Eggs not only contribute moisture but also help bind everything together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this mixture into the cream cheese blend while mixing gently—this keeps your cake light and fluffy.

Step 6: Stir in Pecans

Fold in those lovely chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter. Their crunchiness will add a delightful contrast to the gooeyness of the cake.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake for approximately 60 minutes or until golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, allow your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake to cool slightly before cutting into squares. Serve warm or at room temperature—either way, it’s going to be delicious! Enjoy every gooey bite!

Pro Tips for Making Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Creating the perfect Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out wonderfully gooey and delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Bringing your butter, cream cheese, and eggs to room temperature helps them blend together smoothly, creating a creamy texture that’s key for that gooey consistency.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir gently until just combined to maintain that soft, melt-in-your-mouth quality.

• Toast Your Pecans: A quick toast in a dry skillet enhances the nuttiness of your pecans, giving your cake an extra layer of flavor that will make it even more irresistible.

• Check for Doneness Carefully: Since you want a gooey center, keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Insert a toothpick — it should come out with a few moist crumbs for that perfect gooey texture.

• Let It Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool for at least 15-20 minutes after baking will help set the gooey filling, making it easier to slice and serve without losing its delightful texture.

How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake

Serving your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is as much about presentation as it is about flavor. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game and impress your guests!

Garnishes

• Chopped toasted pecans: Sprinkle these on top for added crunch and visual appeal.
• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of this dairy-free alternative adds a light sweetness and complements the richness of the cake beautifully.
• Caramel drizzle: A light swirl of caramel sauce can enhance both flavor and presentation, making each slice even more tempting.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness that balances the richness of the cake.
• Vanilla ice cream or dairy-free alternative: The cold creaminess pairs perfectly with the warm gooey texture of the cake, providing a delightful contrast.
• Coffee or herbal tea: A warm beverage can enhance flavors while offering a comforting experience alongside your dessert.
• Simple green salad: A lightly dressed salad with greens can act as a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of rich cake.

Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat with friends and family! With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll create an unforgettable dessert experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, store it, and enjoy it later without losing its delightful flavors. Here’s how to keep your cake fresh and delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cake to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
• Store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Freezing

• Wrap individual slices of the cake in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag.
• Label the bag with the date and type of cake to keep track.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever you’re craving something sweet!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen slices overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, warm it in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this delicious treat!

Can I make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake without cream cheese?

Absolutely! You can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or even use Greek yogurt for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s softened for better mixing.

How do I know when my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is done baking?

The cake is done when the edges are set, and the center has a slight jiggle. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out mostly clean—don’t worry if a few moist crumbs cling to it; that’s part of its gooey charm!

What can I serve with Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake?

This cake pairs beautifully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! While pecans add a unique flavor, feel free to experiment with walnuts or almonds if you prefer. Just chop them roughly before adding them into your batter.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and sweetness that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it on your own or sharing with loved ones, every bite is sure to bring smiles. Happy baking, friends!