Butter Pecan Loaf Cake
Butter Pecan Loaf Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of butter with crunchy pecans. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual coffee break or a special family gathering. This loaf cake is easy to make and fills your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma as it bakes.
Why Make This Recipe
You should try making Butter Pecan Loaf Cake because it’s simple and satisfies your sweet tooth. The combination of butter and pecans offers a wonderful flavor that everyone loves. It’s also an excellent way to use up any leftover nuts you may have in your pantry. Plus, this cake can be served plain or dressed up with glaze and extra pecans on top.
How to Make Butter Pecan Loaf Cake
Making Butter Pecan Loaf Cake is easy and enjoyable. Follow these simple steps to create a tasty treat that your friends and family will adore!
Ingredients
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup finely chopped pecans (toasted)
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (for topping)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and sour cream.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Fold in the toasted pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smooth the top, and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency as needed.
- Once the cake is cooled, drizzle the glaze on top and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Slice and serve.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Loaf Cake
Butter Pecan Loaf Cake is best served at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain or add some whipped cream on the side for extra sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a great snack any time of day.
How to Store Butter Pecan Loaf Cake
To store your Butter Pecan Loaf Cake, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. If you want it to last longer, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before serving.
Tips to Make Butter Pecan Loaf Cake
- Make sure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with the sugar.
- Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor, so don’t skip this step!
- You can adjust the amount of glaze based on how sweet you want the cake to be.
- If your cake sinks in the middle, try reducing the baking time slightly or checking your oven temperature for accuracy.
Variation
If you want to mix things up a bit, you can add chocolate chips for a richer flavor. You can also replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different nutty taste.
FAQs
Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?
A: Yes, you can, but your cake may be a bit saltier. Just reduce the added salt in the recipe.
Q: What if I don’t have sour cream?
A: You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk, which will also work well in this recipe.
Q: How can I tell when the cake is done baking?
A: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If it comes out with batter, bake it for a few more minutes before checking again.
With this simple recipe and guide, you’ll be able to create a delicious Butter Pecan Loaf Cake that is sure to impress! Enjoy your baking!
