Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the delightful combination of buttery pecans and a moist, tender cake in this irresistible Butter Pecan Cake Loaf. Topped with a rich cream cheese icing, this loaf is perfect for any occasion, from cozy brunches to holiday gatherings. It's a simple yet elegant treat that will impress your family and friends, bringing warmth and sweetness to your dessert table.
Butter Pecan Cake Loaf is a delightful dessert that embodies warmth and indulgence. The combination of buttery pecans with a moist cake creates a perfect treat for any gathering.
The Perfect Balance of Flavors
The Butter Pecan Cake Loaf embodies a harmonious blend of flavors that makes it irresistible. The richness of the unsalted butter combines beautifully with the nutty aroma of chopped pecans, creating a delightful taste experience with every bite. Each slice is a testament to the perfect balance between sweetness and nuttiness, making it an excellent choice for both casual and formal occasions. The cake's moist texture enhances the overall flavor, ensuring it doesn't just taste good but also feels indulgent.
Moreover, the addition of buttermilk adds a subtle tang, contributing to the loaf's moistness while helping to balance the sweetness of the sugar. The cream cheese icing on top further elevates the flavors, offering a creamy finish that complements the cake's buttery body. Together, these ingredients create a delectable treat that pairs well with coffee or tea, making it an ideal candidate for dessert or an afternoon snack.
A Versatile Treat for Any Occasion
Whether you are hosting a brunch or celebrating a special occasion, this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf fits seamlessly into any event. Its elegant appearance, coupled with the rich flavors, makes it a showstopper that will impress your guests. You can serve it plain for a rustic charm or adorn it with cream cheese icing for an added touch of sophistication. It’s also an excellent choice for holiday gatherings, where its warm, comforting flavors can create a sense of nostalgia and festivity.
This cake loaf also makes a thoughtful homemade gift for family and friends. Wrapped beautifully, it showcases the love and effort you put into baking. It’s a delightful treat that not only satisfies sweet cravings but also serves as a heartfelt gesture, making it a versatile option for a variety of occasions.
Tips for Success
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting.
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
Fold in Pecans
Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Bake the Loaf
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Ice
Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading the cream cheese icing on top.
Enjoy your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with family and friends!
Storing and Freezing
To keep your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, which will keep it delectable for up to a week. Before serving, you might want to allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
If you're looking to make this recipe ahead of time, you can freeze the cake loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Properly sealed, it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before enjoying. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeks or last-minute gatherings.
Customizing Your Cake Loaf
While the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf recipe is fantastic as is, feel free to customize it to better suit your taste preferences. Consider experimenting with different nuts like walnuts or hazelnuts if pecans aren’t your favorite. You can also add chocolate chips or dried fruits for an extra burst of flavor and texture, turning this simple loaf into a unique dessert that reflects your culinary style.
For those who appreciate a touch of spice, adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter can give it a warm, inviting flavor that’s especially appealing during the colder months. Likewise, a pinch of espresso powder can enhance the chocolate notes if you choose to add cocoa powder. Remember, the beauty of baking lies in using it as an opportunity to express your creativity in the kitchen!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Yes, you can use walnuts or almonds as a substitute.
→ How should I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing
Experience the delightful combination of buttery pecans and a moist, tender cake in this irresistible Butter Pecan Cake Loaf. Topped with a rich cream cheese icing, this loaf is perfect for any occasion, from cozy brunches to holiday gatherings. It's a simple yet elegant treat that will impress your family and friends, bringing warmth and sweetness to your dessert table.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Icing:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk.
Gently fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading the cream cheese icing on top.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 3g