Butter Pecan Cake Loaf Recipe

The Butter Pecan Cake Loaf is pure comfort in every bite — a moist, tender cake packed with toasted pecans and enveloped in a luscious butter pecan glaze that effortlessly blends nutty, buttery, and sweet flavors. This loaf is perfect for cozy afternoons, special celebrations, or whenever you crave a truly indulgent treat. With its delicate crumb and irresistible glaze, the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf quickly becomes a favorite that everyone asks for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf is in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that work together to create a harmonious balance of flavor, texture, and richness. Each item plays an essential role, from the creamy butter that adds moisture to the crisp toasted pecans that build delightful crunch.

• Unsalted butter (1 cup/2 sticks, softened): Provides a rich, creamy base for the cake’s tender crumb and the signature butter glaze.
• Granulated sugar (1 3/4 cups): Sweetens the cake and helps achieve the perfect light, fluffy texture.
• Large eggs (4): Bind everything together, adding moisture and structure.
• Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Infuses warmth and enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
• Almond extract (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle nutty aroma that complements the pecans perfectly.
• All-purpose flour (3 cups): The sturdy base for the cake that keeps it tender but not fragile.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise evenly for that perfect loft.
• Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works with the buttermilk to create a light, airy crumb.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances sweetness and boosts all the flavors.
• Buttermilk (1 1/4 cups): Adds tanginess and moisture for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Toasted chopped pecans (1 cup for batter, 1/2 cup for garnish): Deliver nutty crunch and the signature pecan flavor.
• Brown sugar (1/4 cup packed): Sweetens and deepens the flavor of the butter glaze.
• Milk (1/4 cup): Lightens the glaze for a smooth, pourable consistency.
• Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups, sifted): Creates the sweet, creamy base of the glaze that finishes the loaf beautifully.

How to Make Butter Pecan Cake Loaf

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by whipping your softened butter together with the granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy — this is key to a soft, airy texture in your cake. Beat it on medium speed for about three to five minutes, stopping occasionally to scrape down the bowl so everything blends evenly.

Step 2: Incorporate the Eggs and Extracts

Add the eggs one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition so the mixture stays smooth and uniform. Then, stir in the vanilla and almond extracts. These extracts are subtle but essential in giving the cake a warm, nutty aroma that’s simply irresistible.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your leavening agents and seasoning distribute evenly throughout the batter, preventing clumps and giving a consistent rise.

Step 4: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Here comes the trick to keeping the cake tender and moist: slowly add the dry ingredients alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry mix. Gently mix until just combined each time — overmixing can make the cake tough, and nobody wants that.

Step 5: Fold in the Toasted Pecans

Now gently fold in the chopped toasted pecans. These nuts add delightful crunch and deep butter-toasted nuttiness that really make this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf stand out.

Step 6: Prepare the Loaf Pan and Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan so the cake doesn’t stick. Pour the batter evenly, smooth the top, and bake for 55 to 65 minutes or until a skewer comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool Before Glazing

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes. Then, transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important — if the cake is warm, your glaze won’t set nicely.

Step 8: Make the Butter Pecan Glaze

In a small saucepan, melt half a stick of butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and milk, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is smooth and simmering. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract, then gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar until you get a smooth, creamy glaze.

Step 9: Glaze and Garnish Your Cake

Place the cooled Butter Pecan Cake Loaf on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Pour the glaze generously over the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Immediately sprinkle the toasted pecans on top, then let the glaze set for 30 minutes to an hour before slicing.

How to Serve Butter Pecan Cake Loaf

Garnishes

Besides the toasted pecans scattered on top, you can add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt to heighten the nutty-sweet contrast or a light dusting of powdered sugar for a classic look. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream never fails to elevate the experience.

Side Dishes

Serve this loaf alongside a rich cup of coffee or hot tea for a perfect afternoon pairing. If you want to turn your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf into brunch, fresh fruit like sliced apples, pears, or berries provides a bright contrast to the cake’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the loaf into smaller mini servings for a tea party or drizzle individual slices with warm caramel sauce or a drizzle of melted chocolate for extra decadence. For a festive touch, serve with a sprinkle of edible gold dust or chopped crystallized ginger to complement the pecan’s warmth.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Butter Pecan Cake Loaf tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Stored at room temperature, it will remain moist and delicious for up to three days.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then with foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before glazing or serving for best texture.

Reheating

To revive the cake’s fresh-from-the-oven warmth, gently warm slices in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or place in a low oven (300°F) wrapped in foil for 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid warming the glazed cake whole to keep the glaze from melting too much.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to mimic buttermilk’s acidity. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. This ensures the cake stays tender and gives the baking soda something to react with.

What’s the best way to toast pecans for this recipe?

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and golden. Alternatively, spread them on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes. To avoid burning, keep an eye on them—they go from toasted to burnt quickly!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

With some tweaks, yes! Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. However, texture might be slightly different. Be sure to test your specific flour blend for best results.

Why does the recipe call for almond extract?

Almond extract lends a subtle nutty sweetness that perfectly enhances the pecan flavor without overpowering it. It adds depth and complexity to the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf that plain vanilla alone can’t match.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger pan or two loaf pans and adjust the baking time accordingly. Start checking for doneness 10 minutes before the expected bake time because larger cakes can take longer to bake through.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf is like sharing a warm hug—it’s packed with comforting flavors and made all the better with a glazed finish and crunchy nuts. Whether it’s a gift, a weekend treat, or part of a celebration, this cake loaf is genuinely a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try; I promise it will quickly become one of your beloved favorites!

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