Butter Pecan Bliss Cake

Butter Pecan Bliss Cake came into my life on a quiet afternoon when I was looking to bake something comforting and nostalgic and I had a bag of pecans in the pantry plus a craving for something buttery sweet and just a little nutty so I pulled out my mixer and got to work and what came out of the oven was so rich and golden I knew it would be an instant favorite.

I love how the crunchy pecans float in the moist buttery crumb and the simple caramel glaze that gets poured over the top makes everything extra glossy and irresistible this cake isn’t just dessert it’s a full-on experience and every slice feels like a warm hug wrapped in a sweet southern charm.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• All-purpose flour – Provides the foundation for a soft yet structured crumb.
• Baking powder – Gives the cake lift and fluffiness.
• Salt – Enhances the sweet and buttery notes.
• Unsalted butter – Creates that rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and keeps the crumb light.
• Brown sugar – Deepens the flavor with its subtle molasses notes.
• Eggs – Help bind the ingredients and give the cake richness.
• Vanilla extract – Adds warmth and enhances the pecan flavor.
• Buttermilk – Keeps the cake tender and slightly tangy.
• Pecans – Toasted for crunch and nutty depth throughout the cake and topping.
• Heavy cream and butter – Form the base of the caramel glaze.
• Powdered sugar – Helps thicken and sweeten the glaze.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Mixing bowls – One for dry ingredients and one for wet.
• Electric mixer – Makes creaming the butter and sugar easy and smooth.
• 9-inch cake pan or springform pan – Ensures an even, tall bake.
• Rubber spatula – Perfect for folding and scraping the batter.
• Saucepan – To prepare the creamy caramel glaze topping.
• Cooling rack – Helps the cake cool evenly before adding the glaze.

Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Pecans

I like to start by toasting the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5–6 minutes until fragrant then I let them cool while I prep the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Prep the Pan and Oven

I preheat my oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch cake pan then line the bottom with parchment paper for easy release.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl I whisk together the flour baking powder and salt to ensure even distribution.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In a large bowl I beat the butter granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy then I add the eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.

Step 5: Add the Buttermilk and Dry Mix

I alternate adding the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture starting and ending with flour mixing until just combined.

Step 6: Fold in Pecans and Bake

I gently fold in most of the toasted pecans reserving a few for the top then I pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 7: Make the Caramel Glaze

While the cake cools I melt butter and heavy cream together in a saucepan then whisk in powdered sugar until smooth and thick and once the cake is cool I drizzle it over the top and scatter the reserved pecans across the glaze.

Tips

Toasting the pecans really brings out their flavor so don’t skip that step. If you want extra gooeyness I poke holes in the cake and pour some of the glaze on while it’s still warm letting it soak in. You can also turn this into a bundt cake just adjust the baking time accordingly and make sure to grease the pan thoroughly.

Ways to Serve

Warm with a scoop of butter pecan or vanilla ice cream

With a drizzle of extra caramel sauce

As a holiday dessert centerpiece

Served with coffee or a glass of milk for a cozy treat

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Butter Pecan Bliss Cake ahead of time?

Yes it stays moist for days and can be made a day ahead just glaze it before serving.

Do I need buttermilk for Butter Pecan Bliss Cake?

Buttermilk adds tenderness and a slight tang but you can substitute with milk and a splash of vinegar if needed.

Can I freeze Butter Pecan Bliss Cake?

Yes freeze the cooled unglazed cake and add the glaze after thawing for best results.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try this Butter Pecan Bliss Cake and fall in love with its rich texture buttery crumb and that glossy pecan topping that makes every slice feel like something truly special.

Happy Cooking!

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