Ingredients
For the cake
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 large eggs
1 cup of whole milk
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
1 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted
For the cream cheese frosting
16 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Put aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the eggs: Add the eggs one by one, beating well after each addition. Add the vanilla and almond extracts.
Mix wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients to butter mixture, alternating with milk and sour cream, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Mix until combined.
Stir in the pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
Bake: Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer them to a rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat cream cheese and butter: In a large bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
Add the powdered sugar and vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract until completely incorporated.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Cake Layer: Place a cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting on top. Repeat with the second and third layers.
Frost the sides: Use the remaining frosting to cover the sides of the cake.
Topping: Sprinkle the top of the cake with toasted pecans.