Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Introduction
Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of butter and pecans in a moist, gooey texture. This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy afternoon treat. With its decadent taste and simple preparation, you’ll find that this cake quickly becomes a favorite.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Cake mix: 1 box (15.25 oz)
Eggs: 3 large
Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), melted
Cream cheese: 8 oz, softened
Powdered sugar: 4 cups
Pecans: 1 cup, chopped
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Prep Time
The preparation time for this delicious cake is approximately 15 minutes.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cake requires about 40-50 minutes to bake. In total, you will spend around 1 hour for both prep and cooking. This recipe yields 12 servings, making it a perfect dessert for a gathering or a sweet treat for the week.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to ensure the cake does not stick.
Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, and butter. Beat the mixture on medium speed until well blended.
Add Pecans
Fold in the chopped pecans into the batter, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Pour the Batter
Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
Prepare the Gooey Topping
In another bowl, mix together the cream cheese, eggs, and powdered sugar until smooth and creamy.
Spread the Topping
Carefully pour the cream cheese mixture over the cake batter in the pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the edges are set, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few moist crumbs.
Cool the Cake
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake warm or at room temperature, and it can be accompanied by whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Variations
Feel free to experiment with different nuts such as walnuts or adding chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Cook techniques
Preparing the Cake Batter
Start by creaming together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This ensures a light texture in the final cake.
Incorporating Wet Ingredients
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to fully integrate the eggs, resulting in a smoother batter.
Combining Dry Ingredients
Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt before adding them to the wet mixture to prevent clumping and ensure even distribution.
Mixing in Pecans
Fold in chopped pecans gently to avoid breaking them up too much, maintaining a nice texture throughout the cake.
Baking the Cake
Bake in a preheated oven until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This ensures the cake is fully cooked without being overbaked.
Cooling the Cake
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a short time before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from breaking apart.
FAQ
Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if you prefer.
How do I store the cake?
Keep the cake stored in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days, or refrigerate it for longer freshness.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn.
What can I serve with this cake?
This cake pairs well with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely, the cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it properly to maintain moisture and flavor.
Conclusion
The Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances richness and sweetness. The combination of buttery cake and crunchy pecans creates a wonderful texture and flavor profile that is sure to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth. This cake is an excellent choice for gatherings, celebrations, or simply enjoying a slice at home with a cup of coffee. Its ease of preparation and impressive taste make it a must-try for any dessert lover.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Pecan Pie Brownies
For a twist on traditional brownies, try adding some pecans and caramel sauce to create Pecan Pie Brownies, delivering the nutty goodness everyone loves.
Coconut Cream Pecan Cake
Combine the richness of coconut cream with the nuttiness of pecans for a tropical-inspired cake that is both unique and delicious.
Chocolate Chip Pecan Cookies
Bake classic chocolate chip cookies with the addition of pecans for a delightful crunch and flavor that takes them to the next level.
Maple Pecan Muffins
Start your day off right with moist maple pecan muffins. These are perfect for breakfast or as a snack throughout the day, combining sweetness with a nutty flavor.
Pecan Pralines
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Pecan and Apple Crisp
Create a warm and comforting dessert by making an apple crisp with a pecan topping. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone.
