If you’re dreaming of a cake that’s buttery, nutty, and downright comforting, this Butter Pecan Pound Cake is going to sweep you off your feet. Imagine a dense, moist cake that’s packed with toasted pecans and wrapped in rich buttery goodness—each slice melts in your mouth with a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. It’s that nostalgic flavor combo that feels like a warm hug from the inside. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want to bake it again and again!
Whether it’s for a cozy afternoon coffee break or a special dessert, this cake brings all the buttery, nutty vibes you crave.
Why You’ll Love Butter Pecan Pound Cake
This recipe is a classic done right, with a few tricks to make it extra special:
Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack anytime.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple pantry staples and pecans for a luxurious feel.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward mixing and baking with reliable results.
Customizable: Swap pecans for walnuts or add a splash of bourbon for grown-up flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: Rich, moist, and nutty—everyone asks for seconds.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

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Ingredients in Butter Pecan Pound Cake
Here’s what makes this cake irresistible:
Butter
The star of the show, bringing rich flavor and moisture.
Sugar
Sweetens and helps create a tender crumb.
Eggs
Provide structure and richness.
Flour
The foundation for that classic pound cake texture.
Baking Powder and Salt
For a perfect rise and balanced flavor.
Vanilla Extract
Adds warmth and depth.
Toasted Pecans
Crunchy, buttery, and full of flavor.
Milk or Buttermilk
Adds moisture and tenderness.
Instructions
Ready to bake? Let’s go:
Preheat Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (160°C) to ensure even baking.
Toast Pecans
Lightly toast pecans in a dry pan until fragrant, then chop roughly.
Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs
Mix in eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Add Vanilla
Stir in vanilla extract for a warm, fragrant note.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk
Add the dry mixture and milk in batches, mixing gently until smooth.
Fold in Pecans
Gently fold the toasted pecans into the batter.
Pour and Bake
Pour batter into a greased loaf pan or bundt pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 12
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
How to Serve Butter Pecan Pound Cake
This cake is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with:
- A cup of coffee or tea: Classic combo.
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream: Adds creamy indulgence.
- Fresh berries: Brightens and balances the richness.
- A drizzle of caramel sauce: For extra decadence.
Additional Tips
- Don’t skip toasting the pecans: It amps up the flavor and crunch.
- Use room temperature ingredients: For better mixing and texture.
- Test for doneness: Oven temps vary, so start checking around 60 minutes.
- Store leftovers: Wrap tightly and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
A1: Yes! Walnuts or almonds work great, too.
Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
A2: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a delicious alternative.
Q3: How should I store this cake?
A3: Keep wrapped tightly at room temperature or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Q4: Can I freeze the cake?
A4: Absolutely! Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
Q5: Can I add spices?
A5: Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg adds a nice warm twist.
Conclusion
Rich, buttery, and nutty with a tender crumb, this Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a comforting classic you’ll want to keep in your baking rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for every occasion. Go ahead, bake a loaf and treat yourself to a slice (or two) of pure buttery bliss!
Print
Butter Pecan Pound Cake
- Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and moist pound cake with buttery flavor and toasted pecans throughout, perfect for dessert or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternately add flour mixture and milk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Stir in vanilla extract and toasted pecans.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 70-80 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Toast pecans before adding for enhanced flavor.
- Store cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Serve with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 75 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 110mg