Old School Butter Pecan Pound Cake Recipe

Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a classic dessert that brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite. With its buttery, nutty flavor and perfectly moist texture, it’s a favorite for many, and an iconic part of traditional Southern baking. The combination of pecans and rich butter makes this cake a wonderful treat for any occasion—from holiday gatherings to quiet afternoons at home. This article will provide you with a detailed step-by-step recipe, along with helpful tips, benefits, and frequently asked questions to guide you through making your very own Old School Butter Pecan Pound Cake.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Other Essentials

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 10-12 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 420 kcal

Ingredients

To make this delicious cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour 🥣
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened 🧈
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar 🧂
• 4 large eggs 🥚
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans 🥜
• 1/2 cup milk 🥛
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 🌟
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

These ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful cake that’s both decadent and comforting.

Directions: How to Make Old School Butter Pecan Pound Cake

1. Prepare the Batter

To begin, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This will ensure that the oven is ready for the cake as soon as you finish preparing the batter.

1. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, add the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer or hand mixer, cream these ingredients together for 4-5 minutes, or until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it helps incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter cake.
2. Add Eggs: Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures that each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next, giving you a smooth batter.
3. Add Vanilla Extract: Mix in the vanilla extract. This adds a wonderful, aromatic flavor that enhances the butter and pecans.
4. Mix in Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and baking powder. Gradually add this flour mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined after each addition. This will help maintain the cake’s tenderness.
5. Fold in Pecans: Finally, gently fold in the chopped pecans using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.

2. Bake the Cake

1. Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour a loaf or bundt pan thoroughly. This will prevent the cake from sticking, making it easier to remove from the pan after baking.
2. Pour the Batter: Pour the prepared batter into the pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly.
3. Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

3. Cool and Serve

1. Cool in the Pan: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the cake to firm up slightly before transferring it to a wire rack.
2. Transfer and Cool Completely: After 10 minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack and let it cool completely. This step is important for allowing the flavors to set and for easy slicing.
3. Serve: Slice the cake and serve it with a cup of tea or coffee. Enjoy the buttery, nutty goodness of this classic treat!

Tips for the Perfect Butter Pecan Pound Cake

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that all ingredients, especially butter, eggs, and milk, are at room temperature before starting. This helps them incorporate more evenly, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Once you add the flour mixture, mix just until the ingredients are combined.
• Use Fresh Pecans: For the best flavor, use fresh pecans. If possible, lightly toast the pecans beforehand to enhance their flavor even more.
• Grease and Flour the Pan Well: Properly greasing and flouring the pan will ensure that your cake comes out easily without breaking apart.

Benefits of Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Butter Pecan Pound Cake is not only delicious but also offers several benefits:

• Comfort Food: The rich, buttery flavor combined with the crunch of pecans makes this cake the perfect comfort food.
• Simple Ingredients: The ingredients used are simple and easily accessible, making it an ideal recipe for home bakers of all skill levels.
• Great for Gatherings: This cake is perfect for sharing at family gatherings, holidays, or potlucks, thanks to its classic, universally loved flavors.

FAQs About Butter Pecan Pound Cake

1. Can I Use Salted Butter Instead of Unsalted?

Yes, you can use salted butter if you prefer. However, it’s recommended to use unsalted butter so you can control the amount of salt in the recipe.

2. Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Butter Pecan Pound Cake can be made a day in advance. Once baked, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist.

3. How Should I Store Leftovers?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze it for up to 3 months.

4. Can I Add a Glaze or Frosting?

Yes, you can add a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk, or even a cream cheese frosting if you’d like to add extra sweetness and richness.

Nutritional Information

This Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a rich dessert, and moderation is key. Here is a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 5g
• Sugar: 28g

Conclusion

The Old School Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a timeless dessert that never fails to delight. With its buttery richness, crunchy pecans, and moist texture, it brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a quiet afternoon or serving it at a festive gathering, this cake is sure to be a hit. Follow the steps carefully, use high-quality ingredients, and savor the nostalgia and love baked into every slice. Happy baking! 🍰🥜

Additional Notes

• Variations: For a twist, consider adding a swirl of cinnamon or brown sugar to the batter for added depth of flavor.
• Pairing Suggestions: This cake pairs beautifully with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

With these detailed directions and tips, you’re ready to make a perfect Butter Pecan Pound Cake that’s bound to impress everyone. Enjoy! 🌟