Introduction to the Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe
This Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe is the embodiment of Southern hospitality and indulgent baking. If you have ever traveled through the American South, you know that pecans and butter are treated with a level of respect bordering on reverence. This specific dessert takes the legendary St. Louis gooey butter cake and infuses it with the rich, toasted, and earthy notes of premium pecans. The result is a multi-layered masterpiece that offers a firm, buttery crust on the bottom and a silky, molten cream cheese layer on top, punctuated by the crunch of perfectly roasted nuts. This is not just a cake; it is a sensory experience that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen.
When you start preparing this Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe, you are participating in a long-standing tradition of 'dump and bake' style desserts that prioritize flavor and texture over complicated techniques. The aroma that will fill your home while this bakes is nothing short of intoxicating—a heady mix of caramelized sugar, toasted nuts, and rich dairy. Whether you are hosting a holiday dinner or simply looking for a way to brighten a rainy afternoon, this cake is guaranteed to be the star of the show. If you enjoy this flavor profile, you might also want to try our Easy Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake: Your New Favorite Decadent Dessert for another variation on this nutty classic.
Why You’ll Love It
There are several reasons why this Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe will become a staple in your recipe box. First, the texture is unparalleled. Unlike a standard sponge cake which is light and airy, this cake is dense, rich, and truly gooey. It satisfies that deep craving for something substantial and sweet. Second, the flavor combination of butter and pecans is a timeless pairing that appeals to almost everyone. It is sophisticated yet nostalgic.
Furthermore, this Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe is incredibly easy to make. By utilizing a high-quality cake mix for the base, you save time without sacrificing the final quality. It is also a very forgiving recipe; even if you aren't an expert baker, the heavy cream and butter ensure a moist result every single time. It is the perfect dessert for those who want professional-grade results with minimal effort. You can find similar comfort in The Most Heavenly Coconut Pecan Buttermilk Cake You Will Ever Devour.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe, you will need to gather a few key items. The quality of your butter and pecans will directly influence the final taste, so choose the best available. For more information on high-quality ingredients, you can visit King Arthur Baking to explore premium baking staples.
- 1 box (15.25 oz) Yellow Cake Mix (ensure it is the standard size)
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, melted
- 4 large Eggs (divided: 1 for the base, 3 for the topping)
- 1 cup Toasted Pecans, finely chopped
- 1 package (8 oz) Cream Cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
- 4 cups Powdered Sugar (Confectioners' sugar)
- 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter, melted (for the topping)
Notes and Substitutions
If you cannot find a yellow cake mix, a Butter Recipe cake mix or even a Pecan Pie cake mix works beautifully for this Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe. For those with dairy sensitivities, you can substitute the butter with a high-quality vegan butter stick and the cream cheese with a plant-based alternative, though the texture may vary slightly. If you want an even deeper flavor, consider browning the butter before adding it to the cake mix base; this adds a nutty, toasted aroma that complements the pecans perfectly.
Equipment
You do not need an arsenal of specialty tools for this Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe. A 9x13 inch baking pan is the standard choice. You will also need a large mixing bowl, a hand mixer or stand mixer, and a silicone spatula to scrape the sides. Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accuracy. Having a cooling rack will also help the cake set properly before slicing.
Instructions
Following these steps carefully will ensure your Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe comes out perfectly every time. Precision in the mixing of the two distinct layers is key to the final 'gooey' outcome.
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 1/2 cup melted butter, and one egg. Mix until a soft dough forms. Fold in 1/2 cup of the chopped pecans.
- Step 3: Press this dough evenly into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to form the crust.
- Step 4: In another bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the remaining 3 eggs and vanilla extract. Slowly beat in the melted 1/2 cup of butter.
- Step 5: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated and smooth. Stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of pecans.
- Step 6: Pour this cream cheese mixture over the cake mix crust and spread it to the edges.
- Step 7: Bake for 40-45 minutes. The edges should be golden, but the center should still be slightly wobbly. Let cool completely before serving.
Pro Tips
To elevate your Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe, always toast your pecans. Simply place them on a baking sheet at 350°F for 5-8 minutes until fragrant. This removes the raw edge and adds crunch. Another tip is to ensure your cream cheese is truly at room temperature. If it is cold, you will end up with tiny white lumps in your gooey layer. For a clean slice, use a hot knife—dip it in hot water and wipe it dry between each cut. This creates those perfect bakery-style squares that look as good as they taste.
Serving, Storage & Variations
Serve this Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. It also pairs exceptionally well with a strong cup of black coffee or a glass of cold milk. For storage, cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It can be eaten cold, but many prefer it slightly warmed in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. Variations include adding chocolate chips to the base or a drizzle of salted caramel over the top before serving for a 'Turtle' style flavor profile.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 485 kcal |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 58g |
| Fat | 28g |
Note: The nutritional information provided is an estimate based on standard ingredient data and may vary depending on specific brands used.
Conclusion
This Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe is more than just a dessert; it is a celebration of rich textures and classic flavors. Its ease of preparation makes it accessible for any skill level, while the final result tastes like something from a high-end boutique bakery. Once you share this with your friends and family, it will undoubtedly become a requested favorite at every gathering. Enjoy the process of baking this Southern gem and savor every gooey, nutty bite!
FAQs
Can I use store-bought cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, this version is specifically designed using a yellow cake mix as the base to achieve that signature Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe texture without the fuss of starting from scratch.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The edges should be golden brown and set, but the center should still have a slight jiggle when you gently shake the pan. This ensures the 'gooey' part of the Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe is perfect.
Do I need to toast the pecans?
While not strictly mandatory, toasting the pecans for 5-7 minutes in the oven before adding them to your Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe drastically enhances the nutty flavor and crunch.
Does this cake need to be refrigerated?
Because it contains a large amount of cream cheese, it is best to store any leftovers of your Gooey Butter Pecan Cake Recipe in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
Gooey Butter Pecan Cake
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 12-15 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich, Southern-style dessert featuring a buttery cake crust and a decadent, gooey cream cheese and pecan topping.
Ingredients
1 box (15.25 oz) Yellow Cake Mix
1 cup Unsalted Butter, melted (divided)
4 large Eggs
1 cup Toasted Pecans, chopped
1 package (8 oz) Cream Cheese, softened
1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
4 cups Powdered Sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Step 2: Mix cake mix, 1/2 cup melted butter, and 1 egg to form a dough; press into the bottom of the pan.
Step 3: Beat cream cheese until smooth, then add 3 eggs, vanilla, and the remaining 1/2 cup melted butter.
Step 4: Mix in powdered sugar gradually, then fold in pecans.
Step 5: Pour the topping over the base and bake for 40-45 minutes until the edges are golden but the center is still jiggling.
Step 6: Cool completely before slicing into squares.
Notes
Always toast your pecans for the best flavor profile. Do not overbake; the center should remain gooey.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 square
- Calories: 485 kcal
- Sugar: 45g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
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