Butter Pecan Pound Cake

There’s something truly special about baking a butter pecan pound cake. I remember the first time I made it, the house was filled with the warm, nutty aroma that only pecans and butter can create together. It’s a recipe that brings back cherished memories of family gatherings and cozy afternoons spent in the kitchen. Whether you're baking for a holiday or simply want to treat yourself to a delightful dessert, this butter pecan pound cake is sure to become a beloved staple in your baking repertoire.

Let’s dive into why this butter pecan pound cake is a must-try for all food lovers.

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Why This Recipe is a Must-Try for Food Lovers?

This butter pecan pound cake is a delightful blend of rich, buttery flavors and the satisfying crunch of toasted pecans. The combination of a moist, tender crumb with the nutty goodness of pecans creates a harmonious balance that's hard to resist. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a family dinner, celebrating a special event, or simply craving a homemade treat. The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates the cake to a whole new level of decadence, making each bite wonderfully indulgent.

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Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups brown sugar
• 4 large eggs, at room temperature
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Alternatives

If you're looking to customize your butter pecan pound cake, there are several alternatives you can consider. For a slightly different flavor profile, you can substitute brown sugar with granulated sugar. If you prefer a richer taste, try using European-style butter. Additionally, for those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the cake’s flavor. If pecans are a bit hard to find, walnuts make a great substitute, offering a similar texture and taste.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Cake Pan

Start by thoroughly preparing your cake pan. Grease the pan generously with butter to ensure the cake releases easily once baked. To add an extra layer of protection against sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper. This little step can make a big difference, especially when you're working with a rich cake like this one.

Creaming the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process is crucial as it incorporates air into the batter, resulting in a moist and tender cake. Take your time and ensure the butter and sugar are well combined, as this will set the foundation for your delicious butter pecan pound cake.

Incorporating the Eggs

One by one, add the room temperature eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. This helps to create a smooth and cohesive batter. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next to prevent the mixture from curdling. The richness of the eggs enhances the cake’s texture, making it wonderfully moist.

Adding the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so gently fold until just combined. Stir in the toasted pecans and vanilla extract, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Baking the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, typically about 60-70 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes to prevent overbaking. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

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Common mistakes to avoid

Overmixing the Batter

One of the most common mistakes in baking a butter pecan pound cake is overmixing the batter. This can lead to a tough and dense cake. To avoid this, gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

Using Cold Ingredients

Another mistake is using cold ingredients, which can prevent the batter from mixing properly. Always ensure your butter and eggs are at room temperature before starting. This helps create a smoother, more homogenous batter.

Incorrect Baking Time

Not adhering to the correct baking time can compromise the texture of your cake. Keep an eye on the baking process and check for doneness with a toothpick. Overbaking can make the cake dry, while underbaking can leave it mushy.

Not Greasing the Pan Properly

Failing to properly grease the cake pan can result in the cake sticking and breaking apart when you try to remove it. Make sure to generously grease the pan and use parchment paper for an extra layer of protection.

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Expert Tips & Tricks

Toasting the Pecans

Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch. Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Using Unsalted Butter

Using unsalted butter gives you better control over the salt content in your cake. This ensures that the flavors remain balanced and the sweetness of the cake isn't overshadowed.

Ensuring Even Baking

For an even bake, place the cake pan in the center of the oven. This allows for uniform heat distribution, preventing the edges from baking faster than the center.

Adding Cream Cheese Frosting

A rich cream cheese frosting can take your butter pecan pound cake to the next level. It adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake perfectly. Don’t be afraid to be generous with the frosting for an extra indulgent treat.

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Serving Suggestions

With Vanilla Ice Cream

Serving a slice of butter pecan pound cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a classic dessert combination. The cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm cake, making each bite irresistibly delicious.

Dusting with Powdered Sugar

A simple dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance to your cake presentation. It’s a quick way to make your butter pecan pound cake look as delightful as it tastes.

Adding Fresh Berries

Fresh berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, add a burst of color and a hint of tartness that balances the richness of the cake. Arrange them around your cake slice for a beautiful and tasty garnish.

Drizzling with Butter Pecan Glaze

A butter pecan glaze can add an extra layer of flavor and moisture to your pound cake. Drizzle it over the top for a sweet and nutty finish that enhances every bite.

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Recipe Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues while making your butter pecan pound cake, don’t worry! Here are some common problems and how to fix them:

• Dry Cake: Ensure you’re not overbaking the cake. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
• Sticking to the Pan: Make sure to grease the pan thoroughly and use parchment paper for easy removal.
• Dense Texture: This could be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Mix gently and use room temperature ingredients.
• Lumpy Batter: Ensure all ingredients are well combined. Sifting the dry ingredients can help prevent lumps.

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Storage recommendations

Best Before Timeframe

Your butter pecan pound cake stays fresh for up to 5 days when stored properly. To maintain its moisture and flavor, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature.

Storing Techniques

To store your cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. For extended storage, freezing is an excellent option.

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Variations

Chocolate Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Add cocoa powder to the batter and fold in chocolate chips for a rich chocolate version of the classic butter pecan pound cake.

Lemon Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Incorporate lemon zest and a touch of lemon juice into the batter for a refreshing citrus twist.

Gluten-Free Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for regular flour to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Vegan Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Replace the butter with vegan margarine and use flax eggs to make a delicious vegan version of the butter pecan pound cake.

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Decorating Ideas for Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Frosting Options

Besides cream cheese frosting, you can experiment with vanilla buttercream or pecan caramel glaze to dress up your cake.

Pecan Toppings

Sprinkle additional toasted pecans on top of the frosting for an extra crunch and enhanced nutty flavor.

Edible Decorations

Consider adding edible gold leaf or colored sprinkles for a touch of elegance and visual appeal.

Themed Decorations

For special occasions, tailor the decorations to fit the theme, such as using holiday-themed toppers or colored icing.

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Nutritional Information for Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Calories per Serving

A single slice of butter pecan pound cake typically contains around 400 calories, depending on the size of the slice and the amount of frosting used.

Fat Content

Due to the butter and pecans, this cake has a higher fat content, averaging about 25 grams per serving.

Sugar Levels

The cake contains approximately 30 grams of sugar per slice, contributing to its delightful sweetness.

Protein Content

Each serving provides around 6 grams of protein, mainly from the eggs and pecans.

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Freezing Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Proper Wrapping

To freeze your butter pecan pound cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a heavy-duty freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Freezing Duration

The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing its flavor or texture.

Thawing Techniques

When you’re ready to enjoy the cake, let it thaw at room temperature while still wrapped to retain moisture. This usually takes a few hours. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cake dry.

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Wrap-Up

I hope you enjoy baking this butter pecan pound cake as much as I have cherished sharing it with you. It’s a recipe filled with love and warmth, perfect for creating new memories with your loved ones. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the variations and share your unique twists in the comments below. I’d love to hear how your cake turned out and any special touches you added. Happy baking!