Butter Pecan Pound Cake Recipe: A Delicious and Easy Dessert

I recently came across a recipe for Butter Pecan Pound Cake that I just had to try. As a lover of all things pecan, I was intrigued by the idea of incorporating this nutty flavor into a classic pound cake. I was not disappointed by the results and I am excited to share this recipe with others.

This cake is a perfect dessert for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a special celebration. The rich buttery flavor is complemented by the crunchy pecans, making it a delightful treat for the taste buds. The texture of the cake is dense and moist, with a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. With a simple glaze or a dollop of whipped cream, this cake is sure to impress your guests.

Butter Pecan Pound Cake Overview

History and Origin

As a classic Southern dessert, Butter Pecan Pound Cake has been a staple in American kitchens for generations. The recipe is believed to have originated from the Southern United States, where pecans are plentiful and butter is a beloved ingredient.

The pound cake itself has a long history, dating back to the 1700s in Northern Europe. The name “pound cake” comes from the traditional recipe that called for a pound each of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. Over time, variations of the recipe have emerged, including the addition of pecans and other ingredients.

Key Ingredients

The key ingredients in this recipe are butter, pecans, and cake flour. Butter is the star of the show, providing the rich, buttery flavor that makes this cake so delicious. Pecans add a nutty crunch to the cake, and are often toasted to bring out their full flavor. Cake flour is used to give the cake a tender crumb and light texture.

Other ingredients include sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, baking powder, and salt. Sugar provides sweetness and helps to create a tender crumb. Eggs provide structure and moisture, while vanilla extract adds flavor. Baking powder and salt help to leaven the cake and balance the flavors.

Overall, the combination of these ingredients creates a cake that is rich, buttery, and full of flavor. Whether served as a dessert or enjoyed as a snack, Butter Pecan Pound Cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Recipe and Preparation

Equipment Needed

Before beginning the preparation of Butter Pecan Pound Cake, make sure you have all the necessary equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large mixing bowl
• Stand mixer or hand mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula
• 10-inch bundt pan
• Cooking spray
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that you have all the necessary equipment, let’s get started with the step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and spray the bundt pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add 4 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
5. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of whole milk, starting and ending with the flour mixture.
6. Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

Once the Butter Pecan Pound Cake has cooled completely, it’s time to serve it. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Dust the cake with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant presentation.
• Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
• Warm the cake slightly in the microwave or oven and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key ingredients for a traditional pound cake with a butter pecan flavor?

To make a classic butter pecan pound cake, you will need flour, baking powder, salt, butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, and chopped pecans. For the butter pecan flavor, you will also need butter pecan extract or flavoring.

How can I incorporate cream cheese into a pound cake recipe for added richness?

Adding cream cheese to your pound cake recipe can give it a richer and creamier texture. You can substitute some of the butter with cream cheese, or add cream cheese to the batter along with the other ingredients.

What techniques ensure a moist and tender crumb in a butter pecan pound cake?

To achieve a moist and tender crumb in your butter pecan pound cake, make sure to not overmix the batter, use room temperature ingredients, and bake the cake at the right temperature for the right amount of time. Adding a bit of sour cream or buttermilk to the batter can also help keep the cake moist.

Can I use a cake mix as a base for making a butter pecan pound cake, and how?

Yes, you can use a yellow cake mix as a base for making a butter pecan pound cake. Simply follow the instructions on the box, but substitute the water with buttermilk and add butter pecan extract or flavoring and chopped pecans to the batter.

What is the secret to achieving the perfect texture in a pound cake?

The secret to achieving the perfect texture in a pound cake is to not overmix the batter, use room temperature ingredients, and bake the cake at the right temperature for the right amount of time. Adding a bit of sour cream or buttermilk to the batter can also help keep the cake moist.

How does the flavor of butter pecan enhance a classic pound cake recipe?

The flavor of butter pecan adds a nutty and rich taste to a classic pound cake recipe. The chopped pecans add a bit of texture to the cake, while the butter pecan flavoring or extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.