Description
A soft, buttery vanilla cake layered with rich cream cheese frosting and toasted pecans — a Southern favorite that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1½ cups chopped pecans (toasted)
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter (for toasting pecans)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened (for cake batter)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional for extra smoothness)
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and add pecans. Stir for 5–7 minutes until fragrant and golden. Let cool.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy (3–4 minutes). Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
- Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt separately. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture. Stir in sour cream, vanilla, and half the toasted pecans.
- Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans. Divide batter evenly and bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, then vanilla and cream. Beat until light and fluffy.
- Spread frosting between layers and on top/sides. Press remaining toasted pecans around the edges for texture and flavor.
Notes
- Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of bourbon to the frosting.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 80mg