Craving a rich dessert that is buttery and tastes just like your favorite butter pecan ice cream? Look no further—this butter pecan pound cake recipe is your golden ticket to a slice of heaven. As a New Orleans native, I’ve spent years perfecting this old-fashioned butter pecan cake, and I can’t wait to share it with you. Whether you’re a baking newbie or a seasoned pro, this old fashioned butter pecan cake from scratch is surprisingly simple to make and impossible to resist. So, grab your apron, and let’s bake something unforgettable!

What Is Butter Pecan?

Butter pecan is a classic flavor. It mixes toasted pecans with a rich, buttery taste. Think of it as sweet, nutty, and a little caramel-like. It’s warm, cozy, and totally delicious. I grew up loving butter pecan. In New Orleans, it’s everywhere—ice cream, cookies, and cakes. For this butter pecan pound cake recipe, we’re turning that flavour into a cake.

Southern Butter Pecan Pound Cake Recipes

It’s moist, tender, and full of that toasty pecan goodness. The key is the pecans. Toasting them makes their flavor pop. Add butter, sugar, and a touch of maple, and you’ve got magic. This old-fashioned butter pecan cake is a treat you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients for Butter Pecan Pound Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1¾ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk
1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

Equipment and Tools

Bundt pan
Mixer (hand or stand)
Spatula
Measuring cups & spoons
Cooling rack
Oven
Toothpick (for testing)

Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour
Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 People

How to Make Butter Pecan Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Dry Ingredients: Start by sifting 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt into a bowl. Sifting removes lumps and makes the cake light and fluffy. Set this aside for now.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until creamy. Add 1¾ cups of granulated sugar and mix until light and fluffy. Crack in 4 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for that warm, cozy flavor.

Step 3: Toast the Pecans: Toast 1 cup of chopped pecans in a preheated oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes. Watch them closely—they burn fast! Toasting brings out their nutty flavour, making this butter pecan pound cake extra special.

Step 4: Combine Everything: Now, alternate adding the dry ingredients and ½ cup of buttermilk to the wet mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix! Fold in the toasted pecans gently. The batter should be smooth and fluffy, like a cloud.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection: Pour the batter into a greased bundt pan. Bake at 325°F for 50-60 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the centre. If it comes out clean, your butter pecan pound cake from scratch is ready!

Step 6: Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice, serve, and enjoy! For another irresistible baked good, check out Paula Deen’s Banana Bread Recipe, perfect for any occasion!

Watch How to Make

Tips for Perfect Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Want your recipe for butter pecan cake to turn out flawless every time? Here are my tried-and-true tips to make this old-fashioned butter pecan cake a showstopper:

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Cold ingredients don’t mix well. Make sure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps the batter come together smoothly and bake evenly.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make your cake dense. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. A few lumps are okay—they’ll disappear during baking.

3. Toast the Pecans: Toasting pecans is a game-changer. It brings out their natural oils and adds a deep, nutty flavour. Just watch them closely—they can burn in seconds!

4. Use the Right Pan: A bundt pan is perfect for this butter pecan pound cake recipe. Its shape ensures even baking and gives the cake a beautiful presentation. Don’t forget to grease it well!

5. Let the Cake Cool Completely: Patience is key. Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Adding icing too soon can make it melt and slide off.

Serving for old fashioned butter pecan cake Recipe

A recipe for butter pecan cake is rich, nutty, and full of buttery goodness, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

Classic with Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a warm slice on its own with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cosy treat.
Drizzled with Caramel or Maple Syrup: Add a rich, sweet touch with a drizzle of warm caramel or maple syrup.
Topped with Ice Cream: A scoop of butter pecan or vanilla ice cream makes it even more indulgent.
With Whipped Cream and Toasted Pecans: Lightly sweetened whipped cream and crunchy pecans add texture and flavour.
Lightly Toasted with Butter: Pan-toast a slice in butter for a crisp, golden edge, perfect for a comforting twist. Need another great dish to add to your week’s meal plan? Try these Chicken and Pasta Crockpot Recipes.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Pound Cake

If you’re a fan of rich, buttery desserts, this recipe for butter pecan cake will steal your heart. It’s like taking a bite of your favourite butter pecan ice cream—but in cake form. The toasted pecans add a nutty crunch, while the buttery, caramel-like flavour makes every slice irresistible.

What makes this old-fashioned butter pecan cake so special? It’s made from scratch with simple, wholesome ingredients. No fancy techniques or hard-to-find items here. Just pure, comforting flavours that feel like home.

This cake is also super versatile. Serve it at holidays, parties, or just as a cosy treat with your afternoon coffee. As a New Orleans native, I’ve made this butter pecan pound cake from scratch countless times. It’s always a hit, and I know you’ll love it too.

Trust me, once you try this recipe for butter pecan cake recipe, you’ll see why it’s a timeless classic. It’s moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Let’s bake something amazing together! If you love rich, moist cakes, check out this Delicious Amish Banana Nut Bread Recipe for a similar, comforting treat.

FAQs about Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Can I freeze butter pecan pound cake?

Yes! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

How do I store butter pecan pound cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.

Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe by half to balance the flavour.

Why do I need to toast the pecans?

Toasting enhances their nutty flavour, making the cake richer and more aromatic.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

Use ½ cup of whole milk mixed with ½ tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make this cake without nuts?

Yes! Simply omit the pecans for a nut-free version that’s still buttery and delicious.

What’s the best pan for baking butter pecan pound cake?

A bundt pan works best for even baking and is a beautiful shape. A loaf pan also works but may require a longer baking time.

How can I tell when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick in the centre. If it comes out clean, the cake is done. If it has batter, bake for a few more minutes.

Can I use a cake mix instead of making it from scratch?

Yes! Use a butter pecan or yellow cake mix and add toasted pecans for a quicker version.

Why is my pound cake dense?

Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.

Conclusion

You’ve got the perfect butter pecan pound cake recipe! It’s rich, buttery, and full of flavour. The toasted pecans add a nice crunch. Every bite feels like a warm hug. This old-fashioned butter pecan cake is easy to make. It’s great for holidays, parties, or just because.

You can tweak it to suit your taste. Try walnuts or skip the nuts if you like. So, grab your ingredients and start baking. Share your cake with friends and family. Don’t forget to tag me on social media. I’d love to see your creation!