Pecan Pie Layer Cake

Oh my gosh, this cake is everything. It’s like pecan pie and soft fluffy cake had a sweet little baby. And honestly? I’m still thinking about that first bite.

The layers are rich and buttery. The filling? Gooey, nutty, and crazy good. I made it once and now it’s my go-to for holidays.

It feels fancy but it’s not hard. Just mix, stack, and pour on that sticky-sweet topping. If you love pecan pie, you’re gonna love this cake.

Why You’ll Love This Pecan Pie Layer Cake

• Perfectly Sweet and Nutty: The sweet layers of cake pair perfectly with the gooey, nutty pecan pie filling in the center, offering a unique and indulgent dessert experience.
• A Showstopper Dessert: This cake has a wow factor that makes it the centerpiece of any gathering. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to impress your guests.
• Two Classic Desserts Combined: Who doesn’t love pecan pie? Now imagine it layered between soft, moist cake. It’s the best of both worlds.
• Rich and Flavorful: The brown sugar frosting adds the finishing touch, making this cake a true indulgence that balances sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Perfect for Special Occasions: While it takes a bit of time to make, the result is a truly special dessert that’s worth every minute.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure we have all the necessary tools. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Two 9-inch round cake pans: These will form the base of your layers.
• Mixing bowls: You’ll need a few for combining the cake batter, pecan pie filling, and frosting.
• Hand mixer or stand mixer: For whipping up the cake batter and frosting to perfection.
• Whisk: To help combine dry ingredients and mix the frosting.
• Spatula: For folding and scraping the cake batter and frosting.
• Cooling rack: To cool your cake layers before frosting.
• Cake decorating tools: Optional, but if you want to get fancy, you can use a piping bag for frosting and decorating.

Ingredients

This cake is layered with a soft, moist cake that’s complemented by a rich, sweet pecan pie filling and finished off with a creamy brown sugar frosting. Below are the ingredients you’ll need to make this cake, with the measurements provided for convenience:

Cake Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups chopped toasted pecans: These bring out the nutty, buttery flavor in the cake. Be sure to toast them for a deeper, richer taste.
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened: This provides moisture and richness to the cake.
• 2 1/2 cups firmly packed dark brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor, mimicking the flavor of pecan pie.
• 4 large eggs: These help bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, giving it structure and texture.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: To help the cake rise and become fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the cake and enhances the flavor.
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk: Provides moisture and helps the cake come together.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds a comforting, warm flavor.

Pecan Pie Filling Ingredients:

• 1 cup chopped pecans: These add texture and nuttiness to the filling.
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar: The sweetness of the filling comes from this sugar.
• 1/2 cup dark corn syrup: This gives the filling that signature gooey consistency.
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness to the filling.
• 1 large egg: This binds the filling together.
• 1 large egg yolk: Richness and flavor are enhanced by the egg yolk.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the filling.
• 1/8 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the filling.

Brown Sugar Frosting Ingredients:

• 3/4 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar: The base of this frosting, providing a deep caramel flavor.
• 1/4 cup water: To dissolve the sugar and create a syrupy base.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavor and balances sweetness.
• 1 1/2 cups unsalted butter, softened and divided: Gives the frosting its rich, creamy texture.
• 4 1/2 to 5 cups powdered sugar: To achieve the perfect frosting consistency.
• 1 tablespoon milk: To help thin the frosting to a spreadable consistency.

Variations for Pecan Pie Layer Cake

If you’re looking to switch things up or add your own twist to the classic Pecan Pie Layer Cake, here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Fold in some mini chocolate chips into the cake batter for a chocolatey twist on this already decadent dessert.
• Try a Maple Frosting: Swap the brown sugar frosting with a maple-flavored frosting for a different spin on the classic flavor profile.
• Use Light Corn Syrup: If you prefer a slightly lighter filling, you can use light corn syrup instead of dark corn syrup for the pecan pie filling.
• Add Bourbon: For an adult version, try adding a splash of bourbon to the pecan pie filling for an extra layer of flavor.
• Use Toasted Coconut: For a tropical touch, sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes over the frosting or mix it into the pecan pie filling.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Pecan Pie Layer Cake

1. Toast the Pecans for the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Spread your chopped pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toast them in the oven for about 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove them from the oven and set them aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and dark brown sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed. Beat for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Add in the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until fully combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined. Gently fold in the toasted pecans using a spatula.

3. Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the cake batter evenly between two greased and floured 9-inch round cake pans. Smooth the top of the batter with a spatula.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake layers to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

4. Make the Pecan Pie Filling

While the cake layers are cooling, prepare the pecan pie filling. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped pecans, granulated sugar, dark corn syrup, melted butter, egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir the mixture constantly for 4-5 minutes until it thickens and becomes smooth.

Once the filling is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.

5. Prepare the Brown Sugar Frosting

To make the frosting, combine the dark brown sugar, water, and salt in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes syrupy, about 3-5 minutes.

Remove the syrup from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter using a mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the cooled syrup, then add the powdered sugar in increments, beating until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency. Add milk if needed to adjust the texture.

6. Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers have cooled completely, place one layer of cake on a cake stand or serving plate. Spread the pecan pie filling evenly over the first layer.

Top with the second cake layer and gently press down to ensure it sticks.

Frost the top and sides of the cake with the brown sugar frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula. Decorate the top of the cake with extra toasted pecans for a finishing touch.

7. Chill and Serve

Allow the cake to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting and filling. Slice and enjoy this indulgent, mouthwatering dessert!

How to Serve Pecan Pie Layer Cake

This cake is a true treat on its own, but here are some ways to serve it:

• Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream: The richness of the cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
• Top with Whipped Cream: For extra indulgence, top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream.
• Pair with Coffee or Tea: This cake is the perfect companion to your afternoon coffee or a cup of tea, making it a great choice for a dessert after a meal or during a cozy gathering.
• Serve at Holidays or Celebrations: This cake is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, birthdays, or any other special event.

Storing Pecan Pie Layer Cake

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), here’s how to store them:

• At Room Temperature: Keep the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake may firm up a little in the fridge but will still be delicious.
• Freezing: To freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw at room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Since this cake is a decadent treat, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation. Here’s a general estimate of the nutritional information for one slice of Pecan Pie Layer Cake:

Nutrient	Amount per Serving (1 slice)
Calories	450
Total Fat	25g
Saturated Fat	15g
Cholesterol	85mg
Sodium	250mg
Total Carbohydrates	60g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	45g
Protein	4g

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Layer Cake is an extraordinary dessert that brings together the best of both worlds—rich, gooey pecan pie and moist, flavorful cake. With its nutty, buttery layers and decadent frosting, it’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a sweet treat, this cake is the perfect choice. Don’t forget to save a slice for later—you’ll want to enjoy every last bite!