The Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe is a decadent celebration of buttery richness and toasty pecan goodness wrapped in a moist, tender crumb that melts in your mouth. This Southern-inspired delight combines a perfectly balanced cake infused with vanilla and a luscious brown sugar glaze dotted with crunchy pecan pieces. Every bite offers that cozy comfort of homemade sweetness and nutty warmth, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion or family gathering. If you love classic flavors kicked up with a little extra love, this Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe will quickly become your new favorite indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe starts with simple, quality ingredients that work harmoniously to create a delicate balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each element plays its own special role, whether it’s building the tender crumb, adding richness, or delivering that signature nutty crunch.
- Unsalted butter (softened): Provides a rich, creamy base and helps create a tender crumb when creamed with sugar.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and aids in creating a light, fluffy texture by trapping air during creaming.
- Large eggs: Adds structure and moisture, making the cake rise beautifully while keeping it moist.
- Vanilla extract: Brings warm, fragrant notes that elevate the buttery flavor profile.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the cake’s foundation, giving it structure and body.
- Baking powder: Leavens the cake to ensure a light, airy texture.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and richness, creating a supple crumb.
- Sour cream: Contributes a subtle tang and extra moistness that keeps the cake soft for days.
- Chopped toasted pecans: Add crunch and a deep, nutty flavor that is essential to the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe.
- Brown sugar (for glaze): Imparts a deep caramel sweetness for a buttery, sticky finishing touch.
- Heavy cream: Makes the glaze silky smooth and luscious, perfectly coating the cake.
How to Make Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready to go when your batter is mixed. Thoroughly grease and flour your 9-inch bundt or round cake pan to ensure your cake releases effortlessly after baking. Trust me, this small prep step saves a lot of heartbreak later!
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This part is key because aerating the butter and sugar mixture creates that perfect fluffy texture we all crave. Take your time here and really get it creamy.
Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This helps the eggs integrate smoothly for a consistent texture. Then, mix in the vanilla extract, letting that lovely aroma weave its magic throughout the batter.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients and Mix Wet Ingredients Separately
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening and seasoning. In another bowl, stir together the whole milk and sour cream, which will add moisture and a gentle tang to the cake.
Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry and Wet Ingredients
Carefully add portions of the dry ingredients alternated with the milk mixture into the butter mixture, beginning and ending with dry. This step ensures an even, smooth batter without overmixing, keeping the cake tender. Lastly, fold in the toasted chopped pecans, which bring in that special crunch and flavor bursting in every bite.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top gently. Bake for about 40 to 45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before flipping it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This rest time helps the cake set firmly and makes glazing easier.
Step 7: Make the Butter Pecan Glaze
While the cake is cooling, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Bring everything to a gentle boil, continuously stirring to prevent burning. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the glaze thickens slightly and coats the spoon beautifully.
Step 8: Glaze and Garnish
Allow the glaze to cool slightly; then drizzle it generously over your cooled cake. Top with the remaining chopped pecans to finish with a delightful crunch and an inviting look that will draw everyone to the table.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your presentation really sing, add a handful of whole toasted pecans sprinkled over the glaze or even a dollop of whipped cream on the side. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also highlight the beautiful glaze for a charming rustic look.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or freshly brewed coffee to balance the sweetness. For something fruitier, fresh berries or a compote cut through the richness with a bright, fresh note that’s just irresistible.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe as individual cake slices layered with extra glaze and nuts between for mini trifles. Using elegant cake stands or rustic wooden boards can also add a lovely touch for entertaining and make your guests feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled and glazed, store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the cake moist and the glaze glossy without drying out or losing that marvelous flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the unglazed cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before glazing. This makes it super convenient to prep ahead for holiday gatherings or special treats.
Reheating
If you prefer a slightly warm slice, gently warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This softens the glaze and intensifies the buttery, nutty flavors, making each bite wonderfully comforting.
FAQs
Can I use different nuts instead of pecans in the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! While pecans are traditional for their rich flavor, walnuts or almonds can also be wonderful substitutes that add their own unique crunch and taste.
Is sour cream necessary, or can it be replaced?
Sour cream adds moisture and a slight tang that balances the sweetness, but you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or buttermilk if needed. The texture will remain soft and tender.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
The best test is the toothpick or skewer test: insert it into the center, and if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done. If there’s wet batter, give it a few more minutes.
Can I make this cake gluten free?
With some experimentation, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Just be sure to use the blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
How sticky will the glaze be?
The glaze is glossy and slightly thick but still pourable, which means it won’t be overly sticky or hard once set—it adds a luscious coating perfect for every slice.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its buttery richness intertwined with that toasted pecan crunch and brown sugar glaze makes it an unforgettable dessert. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or sneaking an indulgent slice for yourself, this cake is the kind of treat that makes every occasion just a little sweeter. I can’t wait for you to try it and make some joyous memories around your dessert table!
Print
Butter Pecan Bliss Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Butter Pecan Bliss Cake is a rich and moist Southern-inspired dessert featuring a tender butter cake studded with toasted pecans and topped with a luscious brown sugar butter pecan glaze. Perfect for holidays and special occasions, this bundt cake combines buttery sweetness with a delightful nutty crunch in every bite.
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup chopped toasted pecans
For the butter pecan glaze:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch bundt or round cake pan to prevent sticking.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which helps create a tender cake texture.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, beating well after each addition to ensure a smooth batter. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and salt.
- Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine the whole milk and sour cream, which adds moisture and richness to the cake.
- Alternate mixing dry and wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients and milk mixture alternately into the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Gently fold in the chopped toasted pecans to evenly distribute the nuts in the batter.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool the cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely before adding the glaze.
- Make the glaze: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar, heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil while stirring constantly, then simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Glaze the cake and garnish: Allow the glaze to cool slightly, then drizzle it generously over the cooled cake. Sprinkle the remaining chopped pecans on top for added texture and flavor before serving.
Notes
- To toast pecans, spread them evenly on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 6 to 8 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned.
- This cake is rich and moist, making it ideal for holidays or special celebrations.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before glazing to prevent the glaze from melting off.
- Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and a smoother batter.
