Irresistible Pecan Pie Cake Recipe

Pecan Pie Cake combines the rich, nutty flavors of traditional pecan pie with the soft, moist texture of cake. This delightful dessert features layers of brown sugar cake filled with a gooey pecan mixture, offering a harmonious blend of sweetness and crunch. Ideal for holiday gatherings or special occasions, Pecan Pie Cake provides a comforting and indulgent treat that appeals to both pie and cake enthusiasts alike.

Table of Contents

How to make Pecan Pie Cake

Ingredients Needed

Before diving into the baking process, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pecan Pie Filling:

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 large egg yolk
• 3/4 cup chopped pecans
• 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1.5 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Brown Sugar Cake:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, room temperature
• 1.5 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup milk, room temperature

For the Brown Sugar Swiss Meringue Buttercream:

• 5 large egg whites
• 1 2/3 cups dark brown sugar
• 2 cups unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• 2 cups pecan halves

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

1. Prepare the Pecan Pie Filling

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the water, egg yolk, and cornstarch until smooth. Add the brown sugar and chopped pecans, stirring to combine.
2. Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil. Continue boiling for approximately 1 minute, ensuring it thickens.
3. Finish and Cool: Remove from heat, then whisk in the butter and vanilla extract. Allow the filling to cool completely before using.

2. Bake the Brown Sugar Cake Layers

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, lining the bottoms with parchment paper for easy release.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream the room temperature butter with both the brown and granulated sugars on medium-high speed until the mixture becomes pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk: With the mixer on low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture and milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean.
7. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

3. Prepare the Brown Sugar Swiss Meringue Buttercream

• Create the Meringue Base: In the bowl of a stand mixer, whisk together the egg whites and dark brown sugar until combined.
• Heat the Mixture: Place the bowl over a pot of simmering water (double boiler) and whisk constantly until the mixture is hot and no longer grainy to the touch, approximately 3 minutes, or until it registers 160°F (71°C) on a candy thermometer.
• Whip the Meringue: Attach the bowl to the stand mixer and whisk on medium-high speed until the meringue is stiff and the bowl is no longer warm to the touch, about 5-10 minutes.
• Add Butter and Vanilla: Switch to the paddle attachment. Slowly add the room temperature butter, one cube at a time, mixing until smooth. If the mixture appears curdled, continue mixing until it becomes smooth. Mix in the vanilla.

Tips for Perfect Pecan Pie Cake

To create the perfect Pecan Pie Cake, consider the following tips:

1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh, high-quality pecans and pure vanilla extract to enhance the flavor of your cake. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.
2. Toast the Pecans: Toasting pecans before incorporating them into the batter intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a pleasant crunch. Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Be sure to watch them closely to prevent burning.
3. Prepare the Cake Layers Evenly: Divide the batter equally between your cake pans to ensure uniform layers. Using a kitchen scale can help achieve precise measurements, resulting in a balanced and professional-looking cake.
4. Monitor Baking Time: Keep a close eye on the cake during baking. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, while underbaking may cause the center to be too gooey. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
5. Allow Proper Cooling: Let the cake layers cool completely before assembling. This step prevents the pecan filling from becoming too runny and ensures the cake holds together well.

Helpful Tips

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that ingredients like butter and eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This allows for better emulsification and a smoother batter.
• Use Parchment Paper: Line the bottom of your cake pans with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to facilitate easy removal of the cake layers.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week, bringing slices to room temperature before serving.

Cooking Tips

• Avoid Overmixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, resulting in a tougher cake.
• Use a Serrated Knife for Cutting: When slicing the cake, use a serrated knife to achieve clean cuts without squishing the layers.
• Warm the Knife: Dip the knife in hot water and wipe it dry before cutting the cake. This technique helps in making smooth slices, especially if the cake has been refrigerated.

Serving Suggestions

• Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream to add a light and airy contrast to the rich cake.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing that enhances the dessert’s indulgence.
• Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake slices to intensify the caramel notes and add extra sweetness.
• Garnish with Pecans: Sprinkle chopped or whole toasted pecans over the top of the cake for added texture and visual appeal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Pecan Pie Cake, store it properly. Once the cake has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. At room temperature, the cake will stay fresh for up to three days. If you prefer to keep it longer, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Before serving, allow refrigerated slices to come to room temperature or warm them gently in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds to restore their soft texture.

For extended storage, consider freezing the cake. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen slices can be stored for up to three months. To enjoy, thaw the slices at room temperature or warm them in the microwave until they reach the desired temperature.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Pecan Pie Cake offers a delightful fusion of two beloved desserts, bringing together the best elements of both. The moist, tender cake layers complement the rich, gooey pecan filling, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Each bite delivers the comforting familiarity of pecan pie, enhanced by the lightness of cake.

This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various preferences. For instance, adding a splash of bourbon to the pecan filling can introduce a subtle depth of flavor, appealing to those who enjoy a hint of spirits in their desserts. Alternatively, incorporating chocolate chips into the filling can satisfy chocolate lovers, adding a luscious richness to the cake.

Moreover, Pecan Pie Cake is an excellent choice for gatherings and celebrations. Its impressive appearance and decadent taste make it a crowd-pleaser, sure to garner compliments from guests. Despite its elegant presentation, the recipe is straightforward, making it accessible even for those with modest baking experience.

The combination of buttery pecans, sweet brown sugar, and tender cake creates a symphony of flavors that is both indulgent and comforting. Whether served at a holiday feast or enjoyed as a special treat, Pecan Pie Cake is a dessert that resonates with warmth and satisfaction, making it a cherished addition to any dessert repertoire.

Conclusion

Pecan Pie Cake is a delightful fusion of two classic desserts, offering the rich, nutty flavors of pecan pie in the soft, moist form of a cake. Its unique combination of textures and flavors makes it a standout choice for any dessert table. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet treat, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy. Give this recipe a try, and experience the delicious harmony of pecan pie and cake in every bite.

FAQ Section: Pecan Pie Cake

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