Butter Pecan Cake Loaf: A Buttery, Nutty Slice of Comfort
There is something undeniably comforting about a rich, buttery loaf cake cooling on the counter. The golden crust, the sweet aroma drifting through the kitchen, and the promise of tender slices filled with toasted pecans make this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf a timeless classic.
This moist butter pecan loaf is everything you want in a homemade dessert: soft crumb, deep caramel notes from brown sugar, and the warm, nutty crunch of toasted pecans in every bite. It is simple enough for a weekend bake yet elegant enough to serve at gatherings, holiday dinners, or afternoon coffee with friends.
If you are looking for an easy pecan dessert loaf that delivers both flavor and texture, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your baking rotation.
Why You Will Love This Butter Pecan Cake Loaf
This butter pecan cake loaf is not just another sweet bread. It stands out for several reasons:
- Rich buttery flavor balanced with toasted pecans
- Perfectly moist crumb that stays tender for days
- Simple ingredients you likely already have at home
- Versatile serving options — breakfast, brunch, dessert, or snack
- Elegant yet approachable presentation
Unlike layer cakes that require frosting and assembly, this pecan loaf cake recipe is baked in a single pan and can be enjoyed plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or finished with a light caramel glaze.
The Secret to the Best Moist Butter Pecan Loaf
The key to achieving a moist butter pecan loaf lies in three essential steps:
1. Toast the Pecans First
Toasting pecans enhances their natural oils and deepens their nutty flavor. Skipping this step results in a flatter taste. Just a few minutes in the oven transforms them into fragrant, crunchy gems.
2. Use Brown Sugar for Depth
Brown sugar adds subtle molasses notes that complement the butter beautifully. It also contributes to moisture retention, keeping the cake tender.
3. Do Not Overmix the Batter
Overmixing develops too much gluten, leading to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined for a soft, delicate crumb.
Ingredients
Here is everything you need to make this homemade butter pecan cake:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
- 1 ¼ cups pecans, toasted and chopped
Optional Caramel Glaze:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons caramel sauce or milk
- Extra toasted pecans for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal.
2. Toast the Pecans
Spread pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 6–8 minutes until fragrant. Allow them to cool before chopping.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step creates air pockets that help the cake rise beautifully.
5. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract and mix until smooth.
6. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix gently until just combined.
7. Fold in Pecans
Using a spatula, fold in the toasted chopped pecans evenly throughout the batter.
8. Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool
Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Add Glaze (Optional)
Whisk powdered sugar with caramel sauce or milk until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled loaf and sprinkle extra toasted pecans on top.
Butter Pecan Cake Loaf
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Toast pecans for 6–8 minutes and cool.
- Whisk dry ingredients together.
- Cream butter and sugars until fluffy.
- Add eggs and vanilla.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk.
- Fold in toasted pecans.
- Bake 50–60 minutes. Cool before slicing.
Notes
Texture and Flavor Profile
This butter pecan cake loaf features:
- A golden, lightly crisp crust
- A soft, moist interior
- Even distribution of crunchy pecans
- Rich buttery notes balanced with caramel sweetness
Each bite offers contrast between tender crumb and nutty crunch, making it a standout among loaf cake recipes.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off. Do not scoop directly.
- Check Early: Oven temperatures vary. Start checking at 50 minutes.
- Cool Before Slicing: Cutting too soon can cause the loaf to crumble.
Variations
This pecan loaf cake recipe is wonderfully adaptable.
Maple Butter Pecan Loaf
Replace vanilla extract with maple extract and drizzle with maple glaze.
Chocolate Chip Butter Pecan Loaf
Fold in ½ cup mini chocolate chips for added sweetness.
Cinnamon Swirl Version
Add a cinnamon-sugar swirl in the middle for extra warmth.
Cream Cheese Topping
Spread lightly sweetened cream cheese on top before serving for a rich brunch option.
Serving Suggestions
This easy pecan dessert loaf pairs beautifully with:
- Freshly brewed coffee
- Black tea
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Warm caramel drizzle
- Whipped cream
It is equally delightful served slightly warm or at room temperature.
Storage and Freezing
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes. Walnuts provide a slightly more earthy flavor but work well.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
Why did my loaf sink in the middle?
This can happen if the oven door was opened too early or if the loaf was underbaked.
A Classic That Never Goes Out of Style
Butter pecan flavors have long been associated with comfort and nostalgia. The combination of butter, brown sugar, and toasted nuts is timeless. Whether you serve this homemade butter pecan cake during fall gatherings or as a year-round treat, it brings warmth and simplicity to any table.
This moist butter pecan loaf is proof that classic flavors never fade. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it offers everything you want in a homemade dessert.
Bake it once, and it may become your signature loaf.
