Easy Butter Pecan Cake Mix Recipes Your Family Will Love
butter pecan cake mix recipes offer a delightful shortcut to a classic dessert. These recipes bring ease and delicious flavor to any baker's repertoire.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch Baking Pan
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden Skewer or Toothpick
- Wire Rack
- Small mixing bowl (for glaze)
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) butter pecan cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This prevents the cake from sticking and ensures easy removal.
- Step 2: Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cake mix, water, melted butter, and eggs until well combined. The batter should be smooth with no lumps.
- Step 3: Incorporate Pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This ensures every slice has a nutty crunch.
- Step 4: Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 5: Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the cake from crumbling.
- Step 6: Prepare the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add more liquid if needed to achieve desired consistency.
- Step 7: Glaze the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving. Optional Tips and Substitutions: For a richer flavor, substitute melted brown butter for the melted unsalted butter. Add a tablespoon of bourbon to the glaze for an extra layer of warmth. Walnuts or almonds can be used in place of pecans.
Notes
Variations
Butter pecan cake mix recipes offer significant potential for adaptation. These can range from simple ingredient swaps to regional twists and dietary adjustments.
- Ingredient Swaps: Consider replacing pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Brown butter can be substituted for melted butter in the batter to deepen the caramel notes. Buttermilk or sour cream can replace some of the water for added moisture and tang.
- Regional Twists: A bourbon-infused glaze evokes Southern charm. A maple syrup-sweetened glaze brings a touch of New England. Adding a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter lends a warm, autumnal flavor reminiscent of apple pie.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free butter pecan cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are also gluten-free. Applesauce can replace some of the oil for a lower-fat version. Sugar substitutes can be used in the glaze to reduce the sugar content.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is versatile and suits numerous occasions. It can be served as a delightful dessert after dinner, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Its comforting flavors make it a perfect addition to holiday gatherings or potlucks. Warm slices complement a cup of coffee or tea during brunch or afternoon tea time. Garnishing with extra toasted pecans enhances its visual appeal.
Storage Tips
To preserve freshness, the cake should be stored properly. Once cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, the cake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving. The glaze should be added just before serving to prevent it from becoming sticky.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Question 1: Can I use a different size pan? While a 9×13 inch pan is recommended, a Bundt pan can also be used. Adjust baking time accordingly.
- Question 2: How do I prevent the pecans from sinking to the bottom? Toss the pecans with a tablespoon of flour before adding them to the batter. This helps them stay suspended during baking.
- Question 3: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, the cake can be baked a day ahead of time. Store it tightly wrapped at room temperature or in the refrigerator. Glaze just before serving.
- Question 4: What if I don’t have vanilla extract for the glaze? Almond extract can be used as a substitute, or the glaze can be made without any extract.
- Question 5: Can I add cream cheese to the glaze? Yes, cream cheese can be added to the glaze for a richer, tangier flavor. Use softened cream cheese and adjust the amount of milk or cream as needed.