This Pecan Pie Cake combines the classic flavors of pecan pie with the delightful texture of cake. It’s a perfect dessert for holidays, family gatherings, or any time you crave something sweet and comforting. With its rich layers and nutty flavor, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This recipe uses a cake mix, making it easy even for novice bakers.
- Decadent Flavor: The combination of butter, brown sugar, and pecans creates a rich, indulgent taste that rivals traditional pecan pie.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any celebration, this cake can be served warm or at room temperature.
- Comfort Food Appeal: The cozy flavors will remind you of home and family gatherings, making it an excellent choice for comforting desserts.
- Impressive Presentation: Layered with a gooey topping, this cake looks as good as it tastes.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into baking your Pecan Pie Cake, gather the necessary tools. Having everything on hand will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Baking pan (9×13-inch)
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spills.
- Electric mixer: Ensures thorough mixing and helps achieve a smooth batter quickly.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box Butter Pecan cake mix
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 cups chopped pecans
For the Gooey Topping
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
- 2 eggs
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup milk
How to Make Pecan Pie Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the cake after baking.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
Measure out 2/3 cup of the Butter Pecan cake mix and set it aside. In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine the remaining cake mix with 1/2 cup softened butter.
2. Add in 1 cup packed light brown sugar, 2 eggs, and 2 tablespoons water.
3. Use an electric mixer to blend until smooth.
Step 3: Add Pecans
Fold in 2 cups of chopped pecans into the batter gently. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking pan.
Step 4: Bake the Base Layer
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 25 minutes. This layer will serve as the base of your Pecan Pie Cake.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping Mixture
About 5 minutes before the base is done:
1. In another mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup softened butter, 2 eggs, and 1 cup sugar.
2. Mix in 1 cup light corn syrup and 1 cup milk along with the reserved 2/3 cup of cake mix from earlier.
Step 6: Combine Layers
Once the base layer has finished baking:
1. Remove it from the oven.
2. Pour the topping mixture evenly over the baked layer.
Step 7: Final Baking
Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 30 to 35 minutes. The center should still be jiggly when done.
Step 8: Serve
Allow cooling slightly before serving warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat! Enjoy every bite of this delicious Pecan Pie Cake!
How to Serve Pecan Pie Cake
Pecan Pie Cake is a delightful dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this sweet treat.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top for a light and airy contrast.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination that melts in your mouth.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness, elevating the overall experience.
Fresh Berries on the Side
- Serve with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries to add a tart balance to the sweetness.
Chopped Nuts for Crunch
- Sprinkle some additional chopped pecans on top for added texture and nutty flavor.
Coffee or Tea Pairing
- Enjoy each slice with a cup of coffee or tea to complement the cake’s rich flavors.
How to Perfect Pecan Pie Cake
To ensure your Pecan Pie Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
Use fresh ingredients: Always check that your eggs and butter are fresh for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy—overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Check oven temperature: Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is at the right temperature; this helps in even baking.
Let it cool slightly: Allow the cake to cool before slicing. This will help maintain its structure and make serving easier.
Serve warm: Pecan Pie Cake tastes best when served warm, enhancing its flavors and making it more indulgent.
Best Side Dishes for Pecan Pie Cake
Pairing side dishes with Pecan Pie Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider.
Vanilla Ice Cream – A classic pairing that complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly.
Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the cake.
Chocolate Mousse – The creamy texture and chocolate flavor provide a decadent contrast to the pecan pie cake.
Pumpkin Spice Latte – This warm drink enhances the fall flavors in both the latte and the cake, making it ideal for seasonal gatherings.
Cheesecake Bites – Bite-sized cheesecakes served alongside offer a creamy alternative that pairs beautifully with nuts.
Spiced Chai Tea – The warm spices in chai complement the pecans, creating a cozy dessert experience.
Nutty Granola – A crunchy topping on yogurt can be an excellent side dish, offering a different texture alongside your cake.
Maple Glazed Carrots – Sweet, tender carrots add a surprising yet delightful contrast next to your dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Pecan Pie Cake, it’s easy to make a few errors. Here are some common mistakes and how you can avoid them.
- Skipping the Butter: Not using enough butter will affect the cake’s moisture. Always ensure you use the full amount of softened butter as stated in the recipe.
- Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven to 325 degrees for best results.
- Neglecting the Pecan Toasting: Not toasting pecans can result in a bland flavor. Lightly toast them before adding for extra depth.
- Ignoring the Jiggly Center: If you overbake, the cake will dry out. It should still be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pecan Pie Cake in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Pecan Pie Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor.
Reheating Pecan Pie Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about Pecan Pie Cake that might help you while baking.
Can I use another type of cake mix?
Yes, you can substitute other flavors like vanilla or yellow cake mix, but it may change the overall flavor profile.
How do I know when my Pecan Pie Cake is done?
The cake should be slightly jiggly in the center when done. It will firm up as it cools.
Can I make this Pecan Pie Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it one day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until serving.
What toppings go well with Pecan Pie Cake?
Consider serving with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce for added flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
You can use a gluten-free butter pecan cake mix as an alternative to make this dessert gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Pecan Pie Cake brings together all the comforting flavors of traditional pecan pie in a delightful cake form. It’s perfect for holidays or any special occasion. Feel free to customize it with additional ingredients like chocolate chips or dried fruits to match your taste preferences!
Pecan Pie Cake
Indulge in the cozy flavors of Pecan Pie Cake, a delightful fusion of traditional pecan pie and soft, buttery cake. This dessert is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any occasion when you crave something sweet. With its rich layers and gooey topping, this cake will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also impress your guests with its beautiful presentation. Easy to prepare using a cake mix, even novice bakers can master this recipe effortlessly. Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce for an unforgettable treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 (15.25-ounce) box Butter Pecan cake mix
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup butter (2 sticks), softened
- 2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup light corn syrup
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the Butter Pecan cake mix (reserving 2/3 cup), softened butter, brown sugar, 2 eggs, and water. Mix until smooth.
- Fold in the chopped pecans and pour into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
- While baking, prepare the topping by mixing the remaining butter, eggs, sugar, corn syrup, milk, and reserved cake mix.
- Pour the topping over the baked base and return to the oven for an additional 30 to 35 minutes until slightly jiggly in the center.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving warm.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 392
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 226mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 94mg
