White Pecan Cake

Oh wow, have you ever tried a White Pecan Cake? It’s soft, nutty, and just melts in your mouth. I swear, it’s like a little slice of heaven.

When I bake it, the smell fills the whole kitchen. The pecans make it feel so warm and cozy. I just can’t wait to take that first bite.

And the creamy frosting? Oh my gosh, it’s so dreamy. I always want another slice because it’s just that good.

So, let’s make one together. It’s super easy, I promise. Come on, I’ll show you how!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Reader Favorite: Many readers have fallen in love with this cake, calling it “decadent,” “elegant,” and “out of this world.” One reader even declared, “This cake is a showstopper at every event I bring it to!”
• Perfect for All Occasions: Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, or holiday gathering, this cake will impress your guests with its delicious flavors and beautiful presentation.
• Moist and Fluffy: The cake is soft, fluffy, and packed with a rich flavor from the white chocolate chips and pecans, making each bite irresistible.
• Simple Yet Elegant: Even though the cake looks fancy, it’s straightforward to make and uses simple ingredients that come together effortlessly.
• Whipped Cream Frosting: The light and airy whipped cream frosting balances the richness of the cake, adding a smooth and delightful texture.

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you start baking, gather these essential kitchen tools to make the process smoother:

• Three 8-inch round cake pans: For evenly baking the layers.
• Mixing bowls: For preparing your dry and wet ingredients.
• Electric mixer: To beat the butter and sugar, making it light and fluffy.
• Whisk: For whisking dry ingredients and ensuring even distribution.
• Spatula: For folding in the ingredients and spreading the frosting.
• Cooling racks: To cool the cake layers before frosting.
• Offset spatula: For smoothing and decorating the frosting on the cake.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create the best white pecan cake:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the base of your cake. Be sure to measure your flour correctly for a perfect texture.
• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise and stay light.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Enhances the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creates a tender and moist cake.
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly.
• 4 large eggs: Provides structure and moisture to the cake.
• 1 cup whole milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
• 2 tsp vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the cake.
• 1 cup white chocolate chips: These melt into the cake, adding a luscious flavor.
• 1 cup chopped pecans: Toasted pecans bring a nutty crunch and depth of flavor to the cake.

For the Whipped Cream Frosting:

• 2 cups heavy cream: Forms the base of your frosting for a rich and fluffy texture.
• 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar: Sweetens the frosting without making it overly sugary.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: To give the frosting a wonderful aromatic flavor.

For the White Chocolate Ganache:

• 1/2 cup white chocolate, melted: Adds a smooth, creamy texture to the cake.
• 1/4 cup heavy cream: Helps the ganache reach a silky consistency.

For Garnish:

• Extra chopped pecans: Adds crunch and enhances the flavor.
• White chocolate shavings (optional): A decorative touch that makes the cake look elegant and appetizing.

Variations for White Pecan Cake

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are a few ideas to customize the cake:

• Switch Up the Nuts: If you’re not a fan of pecans, try substituting them with walnuts, almonds, or even hazelnuts. Each nut brings a unique flavor and texture.
• Add Dried Fruit: For a pop of color and tartness, mix in a handful of dried cranberries or cherries into the cake batter.
• Experiment with Extracts: If you want to add a deeper flavor, try almond or hazelnut extract in place of vanilla. These will give the cake a nutty, aromatic twist.
• Lemon Zest: Add some freshly grated lemon zest to the batter for a zesty, refreshing flavor that pairs wonderfully with the white chocolate.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to get baking! Let’s go through the steps to make this mouthwatering White Pecan Cake.

1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper, or simply spray them with non-stick cooking spray. This ensures the cake layers won’t stick to the pans.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will ensure the dry ingredients are evenly mixed and prevent any clumps from forming when you add them to the wet ingredients.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed. Beat for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is essential for a tender cake texture, so don’t rush it!

4. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mix until combined. The eggs help to provide structure and moisture to the cake.

5. Alternate Adding the Dry Ingredients and Milk

Add half of the dry ingredients to the butter mixture and mix on low speed until just combined. Then add half of the whole milk and continue mixing. Repeat this process until all the flour and milk have been incorporated, making sure not to overmix the batter.

6. Fold in White Chocolate Chips and Chopped Pecans

Using a spatula, gently fold in the white chocolate chips and chopped pecans. These ingredients will add flavor and texture to the cake, making it irresistible.

7. Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake the cakes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

8. Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

While the cakes are cooling, prepare the whipped cream frosting. In a chilled mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until it starts to thicken. Add the confectioners’ sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to whip until soft peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip the cream, as it can turn into butter.

9. Prepare the White Chocolate Ganache

In a small bowl, heat the white chocolate and heavy cream in the microwave in 15-second intervals, stirring in between, until the white chocolate is completely melted and the ganache is smooth and shiny. Let the ganache cool to room temperature before using it to drizzle over the cake.

10. Assemble the Cake

Once the cake layers have cooled completely, place the first layer on a cake stand or serving platter. Spread a generous amount of whipped cream frosting on top, and repeat this process with the second and third layers. Once the layers are stacked, spread the remaining whipped cream frosting around the sides and top of the cake.

11. Drizzle with White Chocolate Ganache

Once the cake is frosted, drizzle the white chocolate ganache over the top of the cake, letting it flow down the sides for a beautiful, glossy finish.

12. Garnish and Serve

Finish the cake by garnishing it with extra chopped pecans and white chocolate shavings (if desired). Slice and serve this luscious cake to your guests, and watch them rave about it!

Storing White Pecan Cake

If you have any leftover cake (which is unlikely!), you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it for up to 5 days, but be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	390 kcal
Protein	5g
Carbohydrates	55g
Fat	18g
Fiber	2g
Sugar	35g

Conclusion

The White Pecan Cake is a true treat for any special occasion. With its tender, flavorful layers and creamy whipped frosting, it’s a perfect dessert to wow your guests or indulge yourself. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a dinner party, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to be a hit.