Description

Butter Pecan Pound Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace in cake form, a nostalgic piece of home that reminds us of family gatherings, comfort food, and the satisfaction of a well-baked sweet treat. Originating from the heart of Southern kitchens, this cake embodies the rich, buttery flavors seamlessly blended with the nutty crunch of pecans, creating a delightful experience that tantalizes your taste buds.

Imagine pulling a perfectly baked pound cake from the oven, its aroma wafting through the air, instantly bringing back memories of cherished moments spent with loved ones over coffee and dessert. This recipe is incredibly straightforward, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned kitchen pros. It invites you to create something truly special without demanding too much of your time or culinary skills.

Whether served at a festive occasion or enjoyed as a simple afternoon treat, Butter Pecan Pound Cake is versatile enough to steal the spotlight on any dessert table. Its rich flavors marry beautifully with a luscious cream cheese frosting, which can be optionally adorned with even more pecans for that extra crunch. So grab your apron and let's get started—this delectable treat awaits!

Ingredients

• For the Pecan Pound Cake:
• 1½ cups of chopped pecans
• 1½ cups of butter, at room temperature
• 8 ounces of cream cheese, at room temperature
• 3 cups of packed brown sugar
• 6 large eggs, at room temperature
• 3¼ cups of cake flour
• 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract
• For the Frosting:
• 8 ounces of cream cheese
• ½ cup of butter, at room temperature
• 3 cups of powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 2 cups of chopped pecans, optional (for garnish)
• Suggested Variations:
• - For a chocolate twist, you can add ½ cup of cocoa powder to the flour.
• - If you prefer a less sweet cake, use a mix of white and brown sugar.
• - Explore using different nuts like walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a unique flavor profile.

Preparation Method

Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F. Preparing your workspace is key to a smooth baking experience. Grab a 10-inch tube pan and coat it well with nonstick cooking spray. To ensure an easy release later, lightly dust with flour, making sure to tap out any excess.

Now for the base of the cake! Sprinkle ½ cup of the chopped pecans evenly over the bottom of your prepared pan. This will create a delightful nutty layer that everyone will love.

In a spacious mixing bowl, take your softened butter and cream cheese and beat them together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. The warmth from the butter and cream cheese helps them blend together beautifully, which is essential for achieving the right cake texture. Gradually add in 3 cups of packed brown sugar, beating continuously for about 4-5 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. You want to incorporate as much air as possible during this stage, as it will help in leavening the cake.

Next, it’s time to add the eggs. Incorporate them one at a time, making sure that you mix well after each addition. This ensures that the eggs are fully integrated, contributing to the structure and moisture of your cake.

Once the eggs are well mixed in, it’s time for the flour. Carefully fold in the 3¼ cups of cake flour using a spatula or a wooden spoon. This step is crucial—overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so fold until just combined, allowing for a few flour streaks to remain. You can also consider sifting the cake flour beforehand to aerate it, ensuring a lighter texture.

Now, gently blend in the 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract for that lovely, aromatic flavor, along with the remaining chopped pecans. The added pecans provide a great crunch and deepen the flavor profile, enhancing this already indulgent cake.

With your batter ready, it’s time to scoop it into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly across the surface. Place the filled pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips that might occur as the cake bakes, which will make your cleanup much easier.

Bake the cake for approximately 90 minutes, but keep an eye on it as ovens can vary. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. It should come out clean, indicating that the cake is fully baked. Once done, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process is crucial as it lets the cake set properly.

While your cake cools, it's the perfect time to prepare the delicious cream cheese frosting! In another mixing bowl, combine 8 ounces of softened cream cheese and ½ cup of softened butter. Beat them together until smooth and cohesive. Gradually add in 3 cups of powdered sugar, mixing on low speed initially to avoid a sugar cloud in your kitchen. Once the frosting is combined, increase to medium speed and mix until the frosting is fluffy and creamy.

Finish off your frosting with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, mixing once more until well combined.

When your pound cake has cooled completely, it’s time to frost! Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of the cake. For an added touch, sprinkle the optional 2 cups of chopped pecans on top of the frosting for extra crunch and visual appeal.

Tips and Conclusion

For a lovely flavor boost, consider adding a pinch of sea salt to the frosting. This salty-sweet contrast accentuates the flavors and makes each bite irresistible. If you’re serving the cake for a special occasion, try pairing it with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to round out the dessert.

If you have leftovers, which is rare but possible, store your Butter Pecan Pound Cake in an airtight container or cover it with plastic wrap. This will keep it fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage; simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then serve at room temperature for the best taste.
Preparing Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a rewarding experience that culminates in a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. The satisfying combination of buttery softness and nutty crunch creates a comforting slice of heaven that is hard to resist. Each bite is a sweet reminder of gatherings past and delights of home baking, encouraging you to slow down and savor the moment.

As you enjoy this rich, moist cake, consider diving into other recipe pages on our site for more culinary inspiration. Your kitchen can be an adventure waiting to start; from luscious cheesecakes to rich chocolate brownies, our collection promises delicious options that make any moment feel special. Don't forget to share your baking experience with friends and family—I guarantee they will be just as smitten with this delightful creation. Happy baking!