The Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a rich, moist treat that shines at any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or simply enjoying a family dinner, this cake is sure to impress. Its buttery flavor, combined with the crunch of toasted pecans, creates a delightful texture that makes every bite memorable. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s bound to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this cake is perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
- Rich Flavor: The combination of butter and pecans gives this pound cake a unique taste that stands out.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
- Moist Texture: Thanks to the generous amount of butter and eggs, each slice remains perfectly moist.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it plain or dress it up with whipped cream or ice cream for extra indulgence.

Tools and Preparation
To make the Butter Pecan Pound Cake effectively, you’ll need some essential tools and equipment. Having the right tools ensures your baking process goes smoothly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer or hand mixer
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- Loaf pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer or hand mixer: This tool helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly creaming the butter and sugar.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking to ensure your cake rises perfectly.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows you to separate dry ingredients from wet ones easily.
- Loaf pan: A good quality loaf pan ensures even baking and helps shape your cake beautifully.
Ingredients
A delicious and rich butter pecan pound cake perfect for any occasion. Moist, flavorful and easy to make.
For the Cake
- 1.5 cups butter (softened)
- 1.5 cups sugar
- 5 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
How to Make Butter Pecan Pound Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly throughout.
Step 2: Prepare the Loaf Pan
Grease your loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. This will help the cake release easily after baking.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and sugar. Use a stand mixer or hand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Ensure they are fully incorporated before adding the next one.
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the sifted all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until just combined.
Step 6: Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in the toasted pecans using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want to keep the batter light.
Step 7: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once completely cool, slice it up and enjoy!
How to Serve Butter Pecan Pound Cake
Serving Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a delightful experience. This rich and moist cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dessert.
With Whipped Cream
- Add a generous dollop of whipped cream on top for a light, airy contrast to the dense cake.
A Scoop of Ice Cream
- Pair your slice with vanilla or butter pecan ice cream for a creamy complement that melts into the warm cake.
Fresh Berries
- Serve with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity burst that balances the sweetness of the pound cake.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
- A warm drizzle of caramel sauce enhances the nutty flavors and adds an extra layer of richness.
Dusting of Powdered Sugar
- Lightly sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for an elegant touch and a hint of sweetness without overpowering the cake.
How to Perfect Butter Pecan Pound Cake
To ensure your Butter Pecan Pound Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips. Each step will help you achieve a moist and flavorful treat.
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Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and butter are at room temperature. This will help them combine more smoothly, resulting in a better texture.
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Sift Your Flour: Sifting flour before measuring it helps incorporate air and prevent clumps, making for a lighter cake.
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Toast the Pecans: Toasting your chopped pecans enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined after adding flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense pound cake instead of a light one.
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Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. Avoid opening the oven door too early.
Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Pound Cake
Butter Pecan Pound Cake can shine even brighter when served alongside delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.
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Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed coffee complements the sweetness, making it perfect for brunch or an afternoon treat.
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Tea: Enjoy with black tea or herbal blends for a comforting pairing that enhances the flavors of the cake.
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Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the richness of the pound cake.
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Cheese Platter: Include creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an interesting contrast in flavors and textures.
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Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle chocolate sauce over your slice for an indulgent twist that chocolate lovers will adore.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries to create a refreshing side that contrasts nicely with the dense cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Butter Pecan Pound Cake, there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of for the best results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Not using room temperature eggs – Cold eggs can lead to a lumpy batter and affect the cake’s texture. Always allow your eggs to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use.
- Skipping the toasting step for pecans – Toasting enhances the flavor of pecans and adds depth to your cake. Don’t skip this step; simply toast them in a dry skillet or oven until fragrant.
- Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a lighter, fluffier texture.
- Neglecting to sift flour – Sifting flour helps aerate it, leading to a more tender cake. Make it a habit to sift all-purpose flour before measuring for accurate results.
- Not greasing the pan properly – A well-greased pan prevents sticking and ensures easy removal. Use butter or non-stick spray, and consider lining with parchment paper for extra insurance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store Butter Pecan Pound Cake in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Butter Pecan Pound Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Butter Pecan Pound Cake
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the cake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds; check if warmed, as microwaves vary.
- Stovetop – Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm slices for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Butter Pecan Pound Cake that might help you perfect your baking skills.
What makes Butter Pecan Pound Cake moist?
Butter Pecan Pound Cake is moist due to the high fat content from butter and eggs. This rich combination keeps the cake tender and flavorful.
Can I substitute other nuts in Butter Pecan Pound Cake?
Yes! While pecans are traditional, you can replace them with walnuts or almonds if preferred. Just make sure they are toasted for optimal flavor.
How do I know when my Butter Pecan Pound Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready. Be careful not to overbake!
Is Butter Pecan Pound Cake suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely! This cake is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering where you want to impress guests with something delicious.
Final Thoughts
Butter Pecan Pound Cake is an irresistible treat that combines rich flavors and a delightful texture. Its versatility makes it suitable for various occasions, whether served plain or dressed up with frosting. Feel free to customize it by adding chocolate chips or drizzling with caramel sauce—your options are endless!

Butter Pecan Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Butter Pecan Pound Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert that brings a rich, buttery flavor paired with the delightful crunch of toasted pecans. This moist cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to family gatherings, and is sure to impress your guests with its irresistible texture and taste. Easy to prepare, it’s a recipe anyone can master, making it a cherished addition to your baking repertoire. Serve it plain or elevate it with whipped cream, ice cream, or fresh berries for an extra touch of indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1.5 cups softened butter
- 1.5 cups sugar
- 5 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (sifted)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- In another bowl, whisk together the sifted flour and baking powder; gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients while mixing on low speed until combined.
- Gently fold in the toasted pecans with a rubber spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cooling for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (57g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 160mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 105mg