Imagine a cake so rich, so decadent, it makes your grandma’s famous recipe look like a sad box mix. This Butter Cream Pecan Pound Cake isn’t just dessert—it’s a life event. One bite and you’ll question every life choice that led you to not baking this sooner.
Why settle for store-bought when you can make something that’ll have your friends begging for the recipe? Spoiler: They’ll never guess how easy it is. Ready to level up your baking game?
Let’s go.
Why This Recipe Slaps
This isn’t just another pound cake. The butter cream glaze seeps into every crumb, while the toasted pecans add a crunch that’s borderline illegal. The texture?
Moist, dense, and unapologetically indulgent. It’s the kind of dessert that makes people lick their plates—no shame. Plus, it’s stupidly simple to make.
No fancy techniques, no obscure ingredients. Just pure, unfiltered deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, softened (because margarine is a crime)
- 3 cups granulated sugar (this is dessert, not a salad)
- 6 large eggs, room temperature (cold eggs are the enemy)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (don’t even think about gluten-free here)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder (the unsung hero)
- ¼ teaspoon salt (to balance the sweetness, you’re welcome)
- 1 cup whole milk (skim milk will betray you)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (imitation vanilla is a war crime)
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans, toasted (because raw nuts are basic)
For the Butter Cream Glaze:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan like your life depends on it.
- Cream the butter and sugar in a large bowl until it’s lighter than your future.About 5-7 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. No shortcuts—this isn’t a microwave dinner.
- Whisk the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl. Alternate adding this and the milk to the butter mixture.Mix until just combined—overmixing is for gym bros, not cake.
- Fold in the pecans gently. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top like you’re frosting a cake (which you will be, soon).
- Bake for 75-90 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. If it’s jiggling, it’s not done.Patience, grasshopper.
- While the cake cools, make the glaze: Melt the butter, sugar, and milk in a saucepan. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla.
- Poke holes in the cake with a skewer and pour the glaze over it. Let it soak in like a spa day for your dessert.
How to Store This Masterpiece
Room temperature is fine for 2-3 days if you cover it tightly.
For longer storage, wrap it in plastic and foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature—microwaving ruins the texture, and we’ll know if you do it.
Why This Recipe is a Game-Changer
It’s crowd-pleasing, easy to make, and looks like you spent hours slaving over it (we won’t tell). The glaze keeps it moist for days, and the pecans add a gourmet touch.
Plus, it’s versatile—serve it at brunch, dessert, or as a midnight snack (no judgment).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using cold ingredients: Room temperature butter and eggs mix better. Science.
- Overmixing the batter: Tough cake is sad cake.
- Skipping the toast on the pecans: Raw nuts taste like regret.
- Underbaking: A gooey center isn’t trendy here.
Alternatives for the Rebellious Baker
- Swap pecans for walnuts if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Add a splash of bourbon to the glaze for an adult twist.
- Use brown sugar in the glaze for a deeper flavor.
- Top with ice cream because why not?
FAQs
Can I use salted butter?
Sure, if you enjoy playing Russian roulette with your salt levels. Stick to unsalted and control the seasoning yourself.
Why is my cake dry?
You overbaked it or overmixed the batter.
Follow the instructions, and don’t wander off to watch TikTok.
Can I make this without nuts?
Yes, but expect a less exciting life. The pecans add texture and flavor that’s hard to beat.
How do I know when the cake is done?
A toothpick should come out clean. If it’s wet, bake longer.
If it’s on fire, you’ve gone too far.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but you’ll need two pans or one gigantic one. FYI, doubling the glaze is always a good idea.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Cream Pecan Pound Cake is the dessert equivalent of a mic drop. It’s easy, impressive, and tastes like heaven.
Bake it, share it (or don’t), and prepare for the compliments to roll in. Now go forth and conquer your kitchen.