There’s a reason why this cake is called the Million Dollar Cake. It’s not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s so impressive and decadent! This cake is perfect for any special occasion, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a Wednesday night when you’re craving something special. With layers of moist cake, creamy frosting, and crunchy pecans, this cake is guaranteed to make you feel like a million bucks! But don’t worry, it’s not as difficult to make as you might think. With a little time and effort, you can whip up this masterpiece in your own kitchen! So grab your ingredients, put on your favorite playlist, and get ready to bake a cake that will leave everyone saying, “Wow, this cake is a million bucks!”

The Million Dollar Cake

INGREDIENTS

For the cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour


• 2 cups granulated sugar


• 1 teaspoon baking soda


• 1/2 teaspoon salt


• 1 cup buttermilk


• 1/2 cup vegetable oil


• 2 large eggs


• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract


• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

For the frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened


• 3 cups powdered sugar


• 1/2 cup milk


• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract


• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

DIRECTIONS

Make the cake:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.


2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.


3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, oil, eggs, and vanilla extract.


4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until just combined.


5. Fold in the chopped pecans.


6. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.


7. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.


8. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before inverting them onto wire racks to cool completely.

Make the frosting:

1. In a large bowl, beat the butter on medium speed until light and fluffy.


2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating on low speed until combined.


3. Add the milk and vanilla extract and beat until smooth.


4. Fold in the chopped pecans.

Assemble the cake:

1. Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a serving plate.


2. Spread half of the frosting over the cake layer.


3. Top with the second cake layer and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake.


4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Tips and tricks for the Million Dollar Cake:

• For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of buttermilk in the cake batter.


• If you don't have buttermilk, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1 cup of milk.


• You can also add other nuts to the cake, such as walnuts or almonds.


• For a more intense flavor, use bourbon vanilla extract instead of regular vanilla extract.


• If you're short on time, you can use store-bought frosting instead of making your own.

Now, you might be wondering what makes this cake so special? Well, it's the combination of flavors and textures. The cake is moist and fluffy, the frosting is creamy and rich, and the pecans add a crunchy texture that complements the cake perfectly. Each bite is a symphony of flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. This cake is truly a masterpiece and you are bound to impress your friends and family with this recipe!