Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s buttery, moist, and filled with the toasty flavor of roasted pecans. It’s a Southern favorite that brings a comforting warmth with every bite. This cake is perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or anytime you want a slice of pure indulgence. With a dense crumb, golden crust, and just the right amount of crunch, it’s a treat that tastes like tradition. Whether served plain, glazed, or topped with whipped cream, Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that holds up beautifully on a dessert table or with your morning coffee.

What Makes This Cake Special?

Butter Pecan Pound Cake is beloved for its richness and texture. Toasted pecans are folded into a classic pound cake batter made with real butter, sour cream, and brown sugar, which gives it that unmistakable deep, nutty flavor. Unlike lighter cakes, this one is dense and velvety—perfect for slicing thick. The pecans not only add crunch but also amplify the buttery flavor.

It’s a timeless Southern dessert that feels both rustic and elegant.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 12 slices

Ingredients

For the Cake:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
4 large eggs
1 tbsp vanilla extract
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
1 cup sour cream
1 ½ cups chopped pecans, toasted

Optional Glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp milk or cream
¼ tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Toast the Pecans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the chopped pecans on a baking sheet and toast for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. Set aside to cool.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla extract.

3. Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream. Mix just until combined—don’t overmix.

4. Fold in the Pecans

Stir in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

5. Bake the Cake

Grease and flour a bundt pan or tube pan. Pour in the batter and smooth the top. Bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Glaze (Optional)

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. If using glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla. Drizzle over the cooled cake before serving.

Variations

Brown Butter Glaze: Swap the regular glaze for a nutty brown butter icing.
Caramel Pecan Topping: Drizzle warm caramel sauce and extra pecans over the top for a decadent finish.
Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans for perfect gifts.
Spiced Version: Add 1 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, fall-inspired twist.

Equipment You’ll Need

Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Measuring cups and spoons
Bundt or tube cake pan
Whisk
Cooling rack
Baking sheet (for toasting pecans)

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Approx.)

Calories: ~430
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 25g
Protein: 5g
Sugar: 28g

May vary depending on glaze or variations.

Storage Tips

Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps fresh in an airtight container for up to 1 week.
Freezer: Freeze slices individually wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.

My Cooking Experience

Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a personal favorite because it blends simple ingredients into something truly luxurious. I’ve made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and even breakfast—yes, it’s that good! Toasting the pecans is key for bringing out their flavor, and the sour cream ensures a rich, moist crumb every time. It’s always the first dessert to disappear at any event.

Conclusion

Butter Pecan Pound Cake is a beautiful blend of buttery richness, nutty crunch, and comforting flavor. It’s easy to make, full of Southern charm, and delicious enough to become a family tradition. Whether you enjoy it with your morning coffee or as a dessert centerpiece, this cake brings warmth and flavor in every bite.