Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is a mouthwatering dessert that will charm your taste buds. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the nutty crunch of pecans makes it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering. This cake stands out because of its unique gooey center and buttery flavor that leaves everyone craving more.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Cake Base
- For the Sweetness
- For the Dry Ingredients
- For the Flavor
- For the Creamy Topping
- How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Step 2: Prepare the Pan
- Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients
- Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- Step 5: Add Flavor Enhancers
- Step 6: Fold in Pecans
- Step 7: Bake
- Step 8: Cool and Serve
- How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Accompany with Seasonal Fruit
- How to Perfect Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Best Side Dishes for Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Reheating Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
- How do I know when my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is done?
- Can I make this cake gluten-free?
- How long does this cake last at room temperature?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and pecans creates a rich, nutty taste that is hard to resist.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this cake up in no time.
- Perfect for Celebrations: This cake is ideal for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat at home.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or chilled, with whipped cream or ice cream for an extra special touch.
- Impressive Look: Your guests will be wowed by its beautiful appearance and delicious aroma.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Baking pan (9×13 inches)
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Ensures smooth mixing of ingredients, creating a fluffy batter.
- Baking pan: A good-quality pan ensures even baking and easy removal of the cake.
Ingredients
For the Cake Base
- 2 tablespoons salted butter (28 g)
- 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans (140 g)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 g)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened (226 g)
- 1 whole egg, softened
- 1 egg yolk, softened
For the Sweetness
- 2 1/2 cups icing sugar (325 g)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 g)
For the Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (141 g)
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For the Flavor
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla essence
- 1 tablespoon optional bourbon
For the Creamy Topping
- 1/2 cup buttermilk, softened (120 ml)
- 5 tablespoons salted butter, softened (70 g)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream, softened (120 ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
How to Make Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Grease your 9×13 inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix the Base Ingredients
In a mixing bowl:
* Cream together the softened unsalted butter and cream cheese until smooth.
* Add in one whole egg and one egg yolk; mix until well combined.
* Gradually incorporate icing sugar until fully blended.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl:
* Whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
* Slowly add this mixture to your wet ingredients while mixing on low speed.
Step 5: Add Flavor Enhancers
Mix in vanilla essence and optional bourbon for added depth of flavor.
Step 6: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in chopped pecans using a rubber spatula until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake in your preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow it to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake warm or chilled!
How to Serve Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Serving your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake can elevate any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will impress your guests.
With Fresh Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for a light and airy contrast to the cake’s richness.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm cake beautifully, creating a delicious melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the cake. The sweetness enhances the flavors of the pecans.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy slices of cake alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The beverages balance the sweetness and add warmth.
Accompany with Seasonal Fruit
- Fresh seasonal fruits like berries or sliced peaches add brightness and freshness to each bite of the cake.

How to Perfect Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Perfecting your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake takes practice but is quite achievable. Here are some tips to enhance your baking skills.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your dairy products are at room temperature for better mixing and a smoother batter.
Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture. This keeps your cake light and gooey.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking the cake for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time to prevent overbaking.
Let it Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its gooey center.
Experiment with Flavors: Add different extracts like almond or maple for unique flavor variations that suit your taste.
Best Side Dishes for Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake can enhance its flavor profile. Consider these options when serving:
Vanilla Bean Gelato: A smooth, rich gelato adds an extra layer of creaminess that works well with the cake’s texture.
Roasted Apples: Warm, spiced roasted apples bring out the nuttiness in the pecans while adding a fruity contrast.
Chocolate Mousse: Light and airy chocolate mousse offers a decadent pairing that complements the sweetness of the cake.
Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These sweet treats provide a fun twist when served on the side, perfect for brunch gatherings.
Pecan Pie Bars: For pecan lovers, these bars echo similar flavors while offering another texture experience alongside the cake.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the cake, providing a refreshing balance on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the butter browning: Not browning the butter can lead to less flavor. Always take the time to brown your butter for a richer taste.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can create a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold eggs and cream cheese can affect how well they blend. Make sure to soften all ingredients before mixing.
- Not measuring correctly: Incorrect measurements can ruin the consistency. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.
- Ignoring baking times: Every oven is different. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested time to prevent overbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 20-30 seconds, checking often to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid. Warm for about 5 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake that may help you out.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
You can substitute walnuts or almonds if desired. Just chop them finely and use the same amount.
How do I know when my Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour as a substitute for all-purpose flour in the recipe.
How long does this cake last at room temperature?
The cake can be kept at room temperature for up to 2 days if covered properly.
Final Thoughts
The Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake is not only rich and delightful but also versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding chocolate chips, other nuts, or even spices like cinnamon. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy the sweet, gooey goodness!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of our Delicious Gooey Butter Pecan Cake, a dessert that perfectly marries creamy sweetness with the nutty crunch of pecans. This cake features a unique gooey center that melts in your mouth, making it the ultimate treat for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this easy-to-make cake will impress your guests and leave everyone wanting more. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch. Get ready to delight your taste buds with this decadent Southern classic!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 whole egg and 1 egg yolk
- 2 1/2 cups icing sugar
- 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/8 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla essence
- 1 tablespoon optional bourbon
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 5 tablespoons salted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla essence
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together salted butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add the whole egg and egg yolk, mixing well.
- Gradually incorporate icing sugar into the mixture until fully blended.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Slowly add this to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed.
- Fold in chopped pecans gently using a rubber spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for approximately 60 minutes or until golden brown on top.
- Allow cooling slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 65mg