Name: Decadent Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 1 cup chopped pecans (these add a delicious crunch and nutty flavor); 2 cups all-purpose flour (gives the cake structure); 2 cups granulated sugar (sweetens the loaf); 1 teaspoon baking powder (helps the cake rise); ½ teaspoon baking soda (enhances the cake’s rise); ½ teaspoon salt (balances sweetness); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (infuses the batter with flavor); 1 cup buttermilk (adds tanginess and moisture); ½ cup unsalted butter (creates a rich flavor); 2 large eggs (provide structure); 8 oz cream cheese (offers a creamy base); ½ cup powdered sugar (sweetens the icing); 1 teaspoon milk (helps achieve desired consistency)

There’s something undeniably magical about the aroma of a cake baking in the oven, and my Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing is no exception. As the warmth envelops your kitchen, it invites both sweet nostalgia and mouthwatering anticipation. What I love most about this cake loaf is not just its tender crumb and delightful pecan crunch, but also the fact that it’s a perfect treat for any occasion—whether you’re hosting friends or simply indulging after a long day. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. And let’s not forget the creamy icing that takes it to another level! Are you ready to dive into this slice of heaven?

Why is This Cake Loaf Irresistible?

Decadent flavors: Each bite of this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf bursts with rich vanilla and nutty goodness, making it an unforgettable treat.

Easy to make: With just 15 minutes of prep, this loaf fits perfectly into your busy schedule.

Perfect for sharing: Bring it to potlucks or serve it at brunch; it’s a guaranteed hit that keeps guests smiling!

Creamy icing: The luscious cream cheese icing adds a delightful tang that balances the sweetness, elevating the overall experience.

Versatile enjoyment: Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this cake surprises with its incredible flavor at any time of day!

Try serving it alongside a warm cup of coffee or even with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent dessert! Don't forget to pair it with delightful inspirations like Cottage Cheese Blueberry Cake for a sweet spread!

Butter Pecan Cake Loaf Ingredients

• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing from scratch!

For the Cake

Chopped pecans – these add a delicious crunch and a nutty flavor to the batter.
All-purpose flour – gives the cake structure, ensuring it rises beautifully.
Granulated sugar – sweetens the loaf and contributes to its moist texture.
Baking powder – helps the cake rise, resulting in a light and fluffy loaf.
Baking soda – enhances the cake’s rise and complements the acidity of the buttermilk.
Salt – balances sweetness, elevating the overall flavor profile.
Vanilla extract – infuses the batter with a warm, aromatic flavor that is simply irresistible.
Buttermilk – adds tanginess and moisture, making each slice tender.
Unsalted butter – creates a rich flavor and buttery crumb in the cake.
Large eggs – provide structure and help bind all the ingredients together.

For the Cream Cheese Icing

Cream cheese – offers a creamy, tangy base for the icing that pairs perfectly with the sweet cake.
Powdered sugar – sweetens the icing while giving it a smooth texture that's easy to spread.
Milk – a splash helps achieve the desired consistency for the icing, making it easy to drizzle over the cake.

Get your ingredients ready and prepare for a baking adventure that will fill your home with the warm, inviting scent of butter and pecans!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, take a moment to grease a loaf pan generously with butter or non-stick spray, ensuring the corners are well-coated. This preparation is crucial for the perfect release of your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf once it’s baked.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 2 cups of granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This step is key for achieving that rich texture in your cake. Scrape down the sides of the bowl as needed to incorporate all the ingredients.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, beat in 2 large eggs, one at a time, and ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. This will add a delightful aroma to your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf, making it even more inviting as it bakes.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture is essential for the right texture and flavor, so make sure to combine the ingredients well before proceeding.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with 1 cup of buttermilk. Start with the flour mixture and finish with flour. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix; you want the batter to be smooth but not completely uniform, which will help create a delightful texture in your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf.

Step 6: Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This step adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that perfectly complements your cake. Be gentle to maintain the airiness of the batter while doing this.

Step 7: Pour and Smooth
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for an even bake. Aim for a level surface, as this helps the butter pecan cake rise uniformly. Visualize a smooth, glossy batter without any lumps to guide you.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Keep an eye on the cake, and once it turns a golden brown, perform a toothpick test; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached, indicating your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf is perfectly baked.

Step 9: Cool the Cake
After baking, remove the loaf from the oven and set it aside to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely before icing. This cooling process is important as it prevents the icing from melting away.

Step 10: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing
While the cake cools, make the cream cheese icing. In a mixing bowl, combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese, ½ cup of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of milk. Mix until the mixture is smooth and creamy, ensuring no lumps remain, which will create a beautiful glaze for your cake.

Step 11: Icing the Cake
Once the cake is completely cooled, take your cream cheese icing and spread it generously over the top of the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf. Use a spatula to create swirls and peaks, giving it a homemade touch that’s as delightful to look at as it is to taste.

Step 12: Serve and Delight
With your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf beautifully iced, it's time to slice and serve. Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, this cake is sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Just imagine the smiles as you offer this delicious treat!

Make Ahead Options

Planning ahead? This Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing is an excellent choice for meal prep! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Bake it when you’re ready; just remember to give it a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s chilled. The cream cheese icing can be made ahead as well; it stays good in the fridge for 3 days. When you're set to serve, let it warm to room temperature for 30 minutes before icing for that perfect creamy finish. Enjoy hassle-free baking while delighting your family with this delicious treat!

What to Serve with Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing

There's nothing quite like the comfort of pairing your delightful cake loaf with complementary dishes that elevate your meal experience.

Rich Coffee: A cup of hot coffee perfectly balances the sweet flavors of the cake, creating a cozy pairing for any time of day.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delectable contrast to the warm pecan loaf, making each bite divine.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries offer a refreshing burst of flavor that cuts through the sweetness—a delightful contrast!
Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a delicate touch that complements the creamy icing beautifully.

For a brunch gathering, consider serving it with Cinnamon Buns to create a sweet atmosphere. The warmth and spice will harmonize with your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf, making for a memorable experience.

Sparkling Lemonade: A fizzy, citrus drink adds zest to your dessert table, cleansing the palate and pairing wonderfully with the richness of the loaf.
Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle some velvety ganache over the cake for an extra indulgent treat. Its richness echoes the ice cream and enhances the pecans.
Creamy Coleslaw: A side of tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture and refreshing flavor, balancing the sweetness of your cake.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an extra layer of decadence that will leave your taste buds tingling!

Butter Pecan Cake Loaf Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a deliciously tender cake.
You won't lose the rich texture and flavor with this swap!
Nut-Free: Omit the pecans and try adding chocolate chips or dried fruit instead. This twist will maintain that delightful sweetness!
Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and a dairy-free butter substitute to make the cake completely plant-based and still irresistibly moist.
Your friends won't even notice the difference!
Lower Sugar: Reduce the granulated sugar to 1 ½ cups or use a sugar alternative like coconut sugar for a healthier option.
This will ease up the sweetness while keeping the cake deliciously enjoyable.
Spiced Delight: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm spice infusion that complements the pecans beautifully.
This is perfect for cozy fall gatherings!
Cream Cheese Substitutes: Swap the cream cheese icing for a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and lemon juice if you prefer something tangy on top.
It’ll bring a whole new flavor profile to your cake!
Fudge Topping: Drizzle hot fudge sauce instead of icing for a decadent dessert experience that sweetens the deal.
Just imagine that rich chocolate contrasting with the pecans!

Don’t forget to pair your slice with a steaming cup of coffee or a creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat, and consider serving it alongside delightful inspirations like Garlic Butter Chicken for a full culinary experience!

Expert Tips for Butter Pecan Cake Loaf

Toast Pecans: Toasting your chopped pecans for a few minutes enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This helps them mix together smoothly, resulting in a tender crumb.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined, especially after adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of the light and fluffy texture you desire.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, but not wet batter. This ensures your cake is perfectly baked every time.
Let It Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking and helps retain moisture.

How to Store and Freeze Butter Pecan Cake Loaf

Fridge: Keep your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf covered in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Slicing: Consider slicing the loaf before freezing, so you can easily eat just one piece at a time without having to defrost the whole cake.

Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, gently warm in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or in a toaster oven until it’s heated through, enhancing that fresh-baked feel!

Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best pecans for the recipe?
Absolutely! Look for fresh, plump pecans that are slightly oily to the touch. Avoid any with dark spots or off smells, as these indicate spoilage. Buying pecans in bulk or from a trusted grocery store can ensure you get the best quality for your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf.

What is the best way to store the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf?
To maintain its delicious moisture and flavor, store your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer it chilled, you can refrigerate it, but be sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.

Can I freeze the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf?
Very much so! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months. For easy serving, consider slicing the loaf before freezing; this way, you can thaw just what you need! When you're ready to enjoy, simply move it to the fridge overnight to defrost.

What should I do if my cake sinks in the middle?
Don't worry, it happens to the best bakers! A cake sinking can be due to several factors: overmixing the batter, too much leavening agent, or opening the oven door too soon. To troubleshoot, make sure to mix gently, measure your ingredients accurately, and let the cake bake undisturbed for the full time. If you're unsure, a toothpick test for doneness should be your guide; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Is this recipe suitable for those with nut allergies?
It's best to avoid this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf for anyone with nut allergies, as it contains pecans. If you’re looking to make a nut-free version, you could substitute the nuts with chocolate chips or additional spices like cinnamon for flavor. Just make sure to watch for other ingredients that might contain traces of nuts or allergens.