Butter Pecan Pound Cake is the ultimate dessert for those who adore the rich, buttery flavors of pecans paired with a moist and tender cake. This decadent treat combines the nutty crunch of toasted pecans with the luxurious creaminess of butter, creating a pound cake that’s as indulgent as it is irresistible. With a golden crust and a melt-in-your-mouth crumb, it’s perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to afternoon tea.
The beauty of this cake lies in its versatility. Serve it plain for a comforting snack, dress it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or drizzle it with a warm caramel sauce for an elevated dessert. Its delightful balance of textures—crunchy pecans and a velvety crumb, makes every bite a celebration of classic Southern flavors.
If you’re a fan of nutty desserts, this Butter Pecan Pound Cake will undoubtedly become a household favorite. For another rich and indulgent dessert idea, check out our Pecan Pie Cheesecake, a creamy, nutty delight that’s perfect for pecan lovers.
Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Pound Cake Recipe
A Classic Dessert with a Nutty Twist
Butter Pecan Pound Cake takes the timeless appeal of a pound cake and elevates it with the bold, nutty flavor of toasted pecans. The buttery richness paired with the pecans’ crunch makes this a dessert you’ll crave again and again. It’s a comforting classic with a touch of Southern charm.
Moist and Tender Texture
The dense yet tender crumb of this cake is what sets it apart. The perfect balance of butter, sugar, and eggs ensures a moist texture that melts in your mouth. Each slice holds its shape beautifully, making it an ideal choice for slicing and serving at any gathering.
Simple, Everyday Ingredients
This recipe calls for pantry staples like flour, sugar, and butter, with the addition of pecans to make it truly special. There’s no need for fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients, making it accessible for bakers of all levels.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a holiday, or simply treating yourself, Butter Pecan Pound Cake fits the bill. Its rich flavors and inviting aroma make it the centerpiece of any dessert table.
Customizable and Versatile
The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. Add a glaze, swap pecans for walnuts, or layer it with cream for a special touch. This cake is as versatile as it is delicious, allowing you to make it uniquely yours every time.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours 35 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 32g
Ingredients for Butter Pecan Pound Cake
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk, room temperature
- 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
For the Glaze (Optional):
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk or cream
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions for Butter Pecan Pound Cake
Preparing the Cake Batter
- Toast the Pecans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Let them cool, then chop roughly.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes. This step ensures a tender crumb.
- Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for flavor.
Mixing the Dry and Wet Ingredients
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Incorporate Milk: Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Baking the Cake
- Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or loaf pan to prevent sticking. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Making the Glaze (Optional)
- Prepare the Glaze: Whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Glaze the Cake: Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake for an extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Ingredient Background
Pecans
Pecans are the highlight of Butter Pecan Pound Cake, bringing a rich, nutty flavor and a delightful crunch to every bite. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their natural buttery taste and adds an irresistible aroma.
Butter
As the name suggests, butter is a key ingredient in this recipe, lending a luxurious texture and depth of flavor to the cake. Using high-quality, unsalted butter ensures you control the salt content and achieve a perfectly balanced taste.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour provides the structure for the pound cake, giving it a dense yet tender crumb. Sifting the flour ensures a light, even texture in the final product.
Sugar
Granulated sugar sweetens the cake while also contributing to its moistness. Creaming the sugar with butter creates air pockets, resulting in a cake that is both fluffy and rich.
Eggs
Eggs act as a binding agent and provide moisture and richness to the batter. They also contribute to the cake’s golden color and help achieve its signature pound cake texture.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract adds warmth and enhances the flavors of butter and pecans, creating a well-rounded taste. Opt for pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Baking Powder
Baking powder ensures the cake rises evenly, creating a light and tender crumb. It’s essential for achieving the perfect texture in this dense pound cake.
Heavy Cream
Heavy cream is used in both the batter and the glaze, adding a velvety texture and richness to the cake. It also helps the glaze achieve a smooth, pourable consistency.
Brown Sugar
Used in the glaze, brown sugar deepens the sweetness with its caramel-like flavor, complementing the buttery and nutty notes of the pecans.
Powdered Sugar
Powdered sugar is the base for the glaze, creating a silky, smooth topping that coats the cake beautifully. Its fine texture ensures no grittiness in the final product.
Technique Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Pound Cake
Toast the Pecans
Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter intensifies their nutty flavor and adds a slight crunch. Spread them on a baking sheet and toast in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Cream Butter and Sugar Thoroughly
Properly creaming the butter and sugar creates air pockets that result in a fluffy texture. Beat the mixture until it’s pale and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes, for the best results.
Use Room Temperature Ingredients
Allow the butter, eggs, and heavy cream to come to room temperature before mixing. This ensures the ingredients incorporate more evenly, resulting in a smoother batter.
Avoid Overmixing
Once you’ve added the dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense or tough cake by developing too much gluten.
Grease the Pan Thoroughly
To ensure the cake releases easily, grease the pan generously with butter or cooking spray and dust with flour. Alternatively, use a non-stick baking spray with flour included.
Check for Doneness Carefully
Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake to check for doneness. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs but no wet batter. Be careful not to overbake, as this can dry out the cake.
Let the Cake Cool Before Glazing
Allow the cake to cool completely before pouring the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting and ensures it adheres properly to the cake.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
Butter Pecan Layer Cake
Divide the batter into two round cake pans and bake. Layer with cream cheese frosting and pecans for an elegant dessert.
Mini Pound Cakes
Bake the batter in mini loaf pans for individual servings, perfect for gifting or portion control.
Butter Pecan Cupcakes
Transform the batter into cupcakes and top with caramel frosting for a handheld treat.
Ice Cream Topping
Crumble leftover cake over vanilla ice cream for a quick and indulgent dessert.
Pecan Trifle
Layer chunks of pound cake with whipped cream, caramel sauce, and pecans in a trifle dish for a show-stopping presentation.
Freezing and Storing Butter Pecan Pound Cake
Storing Leftovers
- Room Temperature: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: For extended freshness, refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing Instructions
Butter Pecan Pound Cake freezes beautifully, making it a great option for make-ahead desserts. Follow these steps for freezing:
- Cool Completely: Ensure the cake is fully cooled before freezing to prevent condensation.
- Wrap: Wrap the entire cake or individual slices in plastic wrap, then a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection.
- Freeze: Place the wrapped cake or slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw: Defrost the cake at room temperature for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating Tips
- For a warm slice, heat it in the microwave for 10–15 seconds.
- To refresh the entire cake, place it in a 325°F (165°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.
Healthier Twist Ideas
- Swap Butter with Greek Yogurt
Replace half of the butter with Greek yogurt for a lighter texture and fewer calories. - Use Whole Wheat Flour
Substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to add fiber and nutrients while maintaining the cake’s structure. - Reduce Sugar
Cut back on the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup and increase the vanilla extract slightly to keep the sweetness balanced. - Add Fruits
Incorporate diced apples or raisins into the batter for natural sweetness and added nutrients. - Light Glaze Option
Make the glaze with powdered sugar and fresh orange juice instead of milk for a tangy, lower-calorie topping. - Plant-Based Butter Alternative
Use a dairy-free butter substitute to make this cake vegan-friendly without compromising the rich flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Events
Family Gatherings
Serve the cake as the centerpiece dessert for family dinners. Pair it with coffee or tea for a cozy and satisfying treat.
Holiday Celebrations
Decorate the cake with sugared pecans and drizzle it with caramel sauce for a festive holiday dessert.
Potluck Parties
Slice the cake into individual portions and arrange it on a platter. Bring along extra glaze for guests to drizzle on their slices.
Afternoon Tea
Pair small slices of the cake with assorted teas and finger sandwiches for an elegant tea party spread.
Birthday Dessert
Dress up the pound cake with whipped cream, fresh berries, and candles for a simple yet memorable birthday cake.
Picnic Delights
Pack slices of the cake in parchment paper for a mess-free, portable dessert option for outdoor events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use salted butter for this recipe?
Yes, you can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
2. What type of pecans should I use?
Use fresh, raw pecans for the best flavor. Toasting them before adding to the batter enhances their nuttiness.
3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that contains xanthan gum for structure.
4. What’s the best way to toast pecans?
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant.
5. Can I add other nuts to the cake?
Absolutely! Walnuts or chopped almonds work well as substitutes or in combination with pecans.
6. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Grease the pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray and dust it with flour. Ensure all corners and crevices are coated.
7. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be baked a day or two in advance. Wrap it tightly to preserve its freshness until serving.
8. Is there a similar dessert I can try?
For another indulgent pecan dessert, try our Pecan Pie Cheesecake, a creamy and nutty treat that’s perfect for special occasions.
Conclusion
Butter Pecan Pound Cake is more than just a dessert, it’s a celebration of rich, buttery flavors and Southern charm. With its moist, tender crumb and crunchy toasted pecans, this cake captures the essence of comfort and indulgence in every bite. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones at a family gathering or treating yourself to a well-deserved slice, this cake promises warmth and satisfaction.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. From festive holiday tables to casual weekday desserts, Butter Pecan Pound Cake fits seamlessly into any occasion. Its simple preparation and timeless flavors make it a go-to recipe for bakers of all skill levels.
Add this cake to your repertoire and let its delightful flavors brighten your kitchen and your day. Paired with a hot cup of coffee or a generous dollop of whipped cream, it’s a dessert experience you’ll return to again and again.