Butter Pecan Pound Cake Recipe

This Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a rich, flavorful dessert that combines the classic taste of a buttery pound cake with the irresistible crunch of toasted pecans. Perfect for any occasion, this cake has a tender crumb and a delightful nutty flavor that will leave everyone asking for a second slice.

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon butter flavoring
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup milk
• 1 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt pan to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract and butter flavoring.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing gently after each addition.
5. Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
6. Pour the prepared batter into the greased bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

• Nut-Free Option: To make this cake nut-free, simply omit the chopped pecans. You can substitute with chocolate chips or dried fruit like cranberries for added texture.
• Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Glaze: For extra sweetness, drizzle a simple glaze over the cooled cake. Mix powdered sugar with a bit of milk or cream to create a smooth glaze.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week.
• Reheating: To reheat, slice a piece and microwave it for 15-20 seconds, or place the entire cake in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10-15 minutes to warm through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter? It’s best to use unsalted butter, as it allows you to control the amount of salt in the cake. If using salted butter, reduce or omit the added salt.
2. Can I make this cake without butter flavoring? Yes, you can omit the butter flavoring. The cake will still have a delicious buttery flavor from the unsalted butter.
3. How do I know when the cake is done baking? Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is done.
4. Can I substitute the pecans with another nut? Yes, you can use walnuts, almonds, or any other nuts you prefer. Just chop them into small pieces.
5. Can I use a different type of flour? All-purpose flour is recommended for the best texture. If using a gluten-free flour blend, results may vary.
6. How should I store the leftover cake? Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
7. Can I freeze this cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
8. Is this cake suitable for vegetarians? Yes, the ingredients in this recipe are suitable for vegetarians.
9. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container.
10. Why is my cake dense? If the cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or overmeasuring the flour. Be sure to measure the flour properly by spooning it into the measuring cup and leveling it off.

Conclusion

This Butter Pecan Pound Cake is an indulgent treat that combines buttery richness with the satisfying crunch of pecans. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a cup of tea, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.

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