Tips, storage, and serving
Toasting the pecans is crucial; multiple butter pecan cake recipes emphasize that toasting in butter brings out a deeper nutty flavor and adds texture. Using room-temperature butter, eggs, and buttermilk helps the batter come together smoothly and creates a finer crumb, a standard tip in Southern layer cake and butter pecan cake instructions.
Leftover butter pecan cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to about 5 days, similar to guidance for other butter-and-pecan-rich cakes, and is best brought back to room temperature before serving so the crumb and frosting soften. This style of cake is often served plain, with coffee, or alongside a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for an extra-indulgent dessert.