Rich Pecan Butter Cake with Optional Icing or Glaze

Imagine slicing into a golden, buttery cake speckled with toasted pecans, the sweet aroma filling the air and promising a taste of indulgence with every bite. This Rich Pecan Butter Cake is the ultimate dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a cozy weekend treat, or a special holiday celebration, this cake is sure to steal the spotlight.

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Growing up in the South, pecans were a pantry staple. My grandmother had a sprawling pecan tree in her backyard, and every fall, we’d spend hours gathering and shelling those little treasures. She’d whip up a pecan cake so moist and flavorful it felt like a hug in dessert form. This recipe, inspired by her classic creation, carries on that tradition while adding a few modern touches to make it truly unforgettable.

What Makes This Cake Special?

The rich, buttery base of this cake is elevated by the warm nuttiness of chopped pecans, which add both texture and flavor. Unlike overly complicated recipes, this cake strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance. Plus, the optional icing or glaze allows for creative customization—from a classic powdered sugar glaze to a decadent caramel drizzle or a tangy cream cheese frosting. No matter how you dress it up, it’s a show-stopper.

So, dust off your bundt pan, preheat the oven, and let’s dive into the recipe that’s bound to become a household favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we get started, make sure your kitchen is stocked with these essentials:

  • 1 cup butter, softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 4 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Optional for icing or glaze:

  • Powdered sugar glaze
  • Cream cheese frosting
  • Caramel drizzle

Equipment Checklist

Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe a breeze:

  • Bundt pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Electric mixer (or a strong whisk)
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Wire cooling rack

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your bundt pan to ensure the cake slides out effortlessly.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates the cake’s tender crumb, so don’t rush it!
  3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for that hint of warm, sweet aroma.
  4. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Beat well after each addition.
  6. Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans with a rubber spatula, ensuring an even distribution.
  7. Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared bundt pan. Smooth the top with the spatula. Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool and Invert: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Add the Finishing Touches: Once the cake has cooled, choose your icing or glaze and drizzle it over the top for added decadence.

Tips and Tricks for Success

  • Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature. This helps them incorporate smoothly into the batter.
  • Toast Your Pecans: For extra depth of flavor, lightly toast the pecans before folding them into the batter.
  • Don’t Skip the Grease and Flour: Bundt pans can be tricky; a thorough greasing and flouring will prevent sticking.

Variations

  • Chocolate Twist: Stir in a handful of chocolate chips alongside the pecans.
  • Citrus Kick: Add a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest for a bright, fresh flavor.
  • Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg complements the pecans beautifully.

Storing Your Cake

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.

Perfect Pairings

This cake pairs beautifully with:

  • A steaming cup of coffee or tea
  • A dollop of whipped cream
  • Vanilla or butter pecan ice cream

FAQs

1. Can I use other nuts instead of pecans? Yes! Walnuts or almonds make a great substitute, but pecans provide the best buttery flavor.

2. What if I don’t have a bundt pan? A loaf or round cake pan will work, but be sure to adjust the baking time.

3. Is the glaze necessary? Not at all! This cake is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds a delightful extra touch.

This Rich Pecan Butter Cake is more than just dessert; it’s a celebration of timeless flavors and cherished memories. If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Share your creation on social media with #PecanButterCake and tag me for a chance to be featured. Don’t forget to subscribe for more mouthwatering recipes delivered straight to your inbox.