This southern butter pecan layer cake is the definition of rich, nutty Southern comfort.”. This Southern Butter Pecan Layer Cake is the kind of dessert that instantly turns any gathering into a celebration. Soft vanilla cake layers, toasted pecans, and a smooth, rich buttercream come together in a symphony of textures and flavors.

Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a baby shower, or just a cozy Sunday, this cake captures everything you’d want in a homemade dessert. If you’ve ever tried a cake that tastes like comfort wrapped in sugar, this is it.

For a similarly creamy, indulgent dessert, don’t miss this Lemon Cream Cake Recipe — it’s a reader favorite for good reason.

Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Cake:
For the Butter Pecan Frosting:
Directions
1. Prepare the Cake Pans
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
3. Cream the Butter & Sugar
4. Add Egg Whites and Vanilla
5. Alternate Dry and Wet
6. Fold in Pecans
7. Bake
8. Cool
For the Butter Pecan Frosting
1. Beat the Butter
2. Add Sugar and Cream
3. Assemble
Tips & Variations
Storage
Time & Yield
Tools Used
Why This Is the Best Southern Butter Pecan Layer Cake
Southern Butter Pecan Layer Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Notes
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 1/4 cups (280g) cake flour

1 tbsp baking powder

1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil

1 1/2 cups (300g) granulated sugar

4 large egg whites

1 tbsp pure vanilla extract

1 cup (240ml) buttermilk, room temperature

1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Butter Pecan Frosting:
1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, room temperature

3 1/2 cups (440g) powdered sugar

1 tsp vanilla extract

2–3 tbsp heavy cream

Pinch of salt

Extra toasted pecans for garnish

Tip: Toast the pecans at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, until fragrant.

Directions
1. Prepare the Cake Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans or line with parchment paper.