Southern Comfort the Ultimate Pecan Pound Cake

Recipe Introduction

Ever had one of those days? Honestly, sometimes all I need is a slice of cake. If you ask me, this pecan pound cake is pure comfort food.

It's buttery, nutty, and just the right amount of sweet.

Southern Charm: Your New Favorite Pecan Cake

This pecan pound cake is inspired by the classic Southern pound cake recipe . It's a simple cake that has its roots in the South.

It's a food cake known for its rich flavour. We're talking about a straightforward, scrumptiously delicious bake! A proper homemade pecan pound cake , like you'd find in grandma's kitchen.

This pecan loaf cake recipe is easy enough for beginners. It takes about an hour and a half from start to finish.

This recipe makes 10-12 slices of deliciousness.

Why This Pecan Pound Cake is Different

This recipe is more than just a cake. First, pecan is good for you. Did you know pecans are packed with antioxidants? Second, a slice is perfect for sharing with friends or family.

It is amazing for a cozy brunch. Finally, the brown butter pecan pound cake glaze elevates this recipe from ordinary to spectacular.

Eat dessert ? Absolutely!

Now, let's talk ingredients.

Alright, let's dive into what you need to bake this amazing pecan pound cake . Think of this as your backstage pass to flavour town.

We're going to break down the ingredients and tools. So you can get your bake on with confidence!

Main Ingredients

Listen, getting the right stuff is half the battle. Quality matters, especially with pecan cake . Fresh, top-notch ingredients will make a world of difference.

For the Cake:

• Unsalted Butter: 1 ½ cups (3 sticks) , which is 340g . It has to be softened for that lovely creamy texture. Honestly, if your butter is cold, you're in for a struggle.
• Granulated Sugar: 3 cups (600g) . Yep, it's a pound cake recipe , so we're not skimping!
• Large Eggs: 6 . Free range if you can, the yolks are just so much richer.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon . Don't go fake stuff here, please!
• All-Purpose Flour: 3 cups (360g) . Makes it easy to get a good crumb.
• Baking Powder: ½ teaspoon . Just a little lift to keep it fluffy.
• Salt: ¼ teaspoon . Balances the sweetness, trust me.
• Whole Milk: 1 cup (240ml) . Don't use skimmed milk; it needs the fat.
• Pecans, toasted and chopped: 1 cup (115g) . Make sure they're good ones, they're the star here!

For the Brown Butter Glaze:

• Unsalted Butter: ½ cup (1 stick) , that's 113g . This makes the brown butter pecan pound cake sing.
• Powdered Sugar, sifted: 2 cups (240g) . Sifting is key to a smooth glaze.
• Milk or Cream: 2-4 tablespoons . Adjust to get the right thickness.
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon . Adds warmth.
• Pinch of Salt.
• Pecans, toasted and chopped: 1/2 cup (57.5g) . Because more is more, right?

Seasoning Notes

Spices can make all the difference. Food cakes like this benefit from the right flavour enhancers.

Essential is that the pecan recipes often need to be balanced in flavour. So good vanilla is non-negotiable. The browned butter in the glaze? That's next level flavour.

Quick substitution? A touch of maple syrup in the glaze if you're feeling fancy.

Equipment Needed

Let's talk kit. You really don't need a load of fancy gadgets here. Here’s what you need for this delicious easy pecan pound cake .

• 9x5 inch loaf pan . Gotta have something to bake it in.
• Parchment paper. Makes life so much easier when getting the pecan loaf cake recipe out.
• Mixing bowls. At least two, for wet and dry.
• Electric mixer. Stand or hand held, your choice. I use my KitchenAid but a hand mixer works perfectly.
• Rubber spatula. For scraping down the sides and folding in pecans.
• Small saucepan. For browning that butter, keep an eye on it!
• Wire rack. Cool it properly to achieve a perfect Southern pound cake recipe .

Honestly, with these ingredients and equipment you're ready to eat dessert with this homemade pecan pound cake !

Alright, love! Ready to bake something that'll knock your socks off? We're diving headfirst into the scrummy world of pecan pound cake.

This isn’t just any cake; it's a hug in dessert form. Forget those dry, sad excuses for pound cake recipes you've tried before.

Get ready to elevate your pecan cake game!

Cooking Method: Pecan Perfection

Let's get down to brass tacks. I'm going to walk you through making this easy pecan pound cake , step-by-step. Trust me, it's easier than getting a round in at your local!

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic

Honestly, getting organized is half the battle. We call it mise en place, fancy pants French stuff. But really, it just means get your ducks in a row! First, make sure you have all 1 ½ cups of softened butter.

Oh my gosh, and get your eggs at room temperature too! Pro Tip: Pop them in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes.

step-by-step Process: Bake It ‘Til You Make It!

1. Prep: Heat your oven to 325° F ( 160° C) . Grease that loaf pan like your life depends on it.
2. Cream: Cream together butter and sugar until it's light and fluffy. About 5 minutes should do it.
3. Incorporate: Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
4. Combine: Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt separately.
5. Alternate: Gradually add dry to wet, alternating with milk, starting and ending with dry. Don't overmix!
6. Fold: Gently fold in toasted pecans.
7. Bake: Pour into pan. Bake for 60- 70 minutes , or until a skewer comes out clean.
8. Cool: Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Pro Tips: Get that Pecan Loaf Cake Recipe Right!

Toasting the pecans? Absolute must. It brings out their nutty flavour. Avoid overmixing the batter, it creates a tough Southern pound cake recipe .

make-ahead? Bake the cake a day before and wrap it tightly. Glaze it just before serving for maximum impact.

Oh my gosh, you're gonna love this brown butter pecan pound cake . It is the bomb.

Recipe Notes for the Best Pecan Pound Cake

Alright, so you're ready to bake the perfect pecan pound cake . Ace! But before you preheat that oven, let's chat about some important notes.

These are my little secrets to baking success, and I'm sharing them with you! After all, what are friends for?

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Pecan Cake

Want to make your Southern pound cake recipe look like it came straight from a fancy bakery? Start with the plating.

A simple slice on a pretty plate is nice, but a little extra effort goes a long way.

For presentation, consider dusting the plate with powdered sugar. Add a sprig of mint for a pop of color. The best Southern pound cake recipe needs equally elegant serving ideas.

This pecan pound cake is fab on its own. It also plays well with others! A scoop of vanilla ice cream is classic.

A dollop of whipped cream is divine. A drizzle of caramel sauce? chef's kiss . As for drinks, a cup of hot coffee or tea is the perfect companion for a slice of warm pecan cake.

Storage Tips: Keep that Pecan Flavor Fresh

If, and that's a big if , you have any leftover pecan pound cake , proper storage is key. Honestly, I rarely have any left. It's too good!

To refrigerate, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing is an option too! Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap. Then wrap it again in foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

To reheat, a quick zap in the microwave works. You can also warm slices in a low oven (around 300° F/ 150° C ) for a few minutes.

It's awesome to add a little twist to those Pecan Recipes that you have used before.

Variations: Make it Your Own Pecan Cake Recipe

Want to put your own spin on this pecan pound cake ? Go for it! After all, cooking should be fun!

For a dietary adaptation, try using a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free pecan pound cake. Just be sure to use a 1:1 replacement.

Speaking of easy pecan pound cake recipes, seasonal swaps are another option. In the autumn, use pumpkin spice instead of vanilla extract.

In the summer, a squeeze of lemon zest adds a refreshing twist to this brown butter pecan pound cake.

Nutrition Basics: Eat Dessert (Responsibly!)

Alright, let's talk nutrition. (I know, I know, boring!) But here's the deal: even the most delicious homemade pecan pound cake should be enjoyed in moderation.

Each slice has roughly 520 calories. It also packs 6 grams of protein. Keep in mind that this information is a rough estimate.

That being said, pecans are a good source of healthy fats and fiber. And honestly, a little bit of sweetness can do wonders for your mood.

This pecan loaf cake recipe will satisfy those cravings.

So there you have it! Your guide to making the perfect pecan pound cake . I can't wait to hear how it turns out. Happy baking, angelsoni!

Frequently Asked Questions

My pecan pound cake is dry! What did I do wrong?

A dry pecan pound cake is a common baking woe, but easily fixed! The most likely culprit is overbaking, so start checking for doneness a few minutes early. Also, ensure you're measuring your flour accurately too much flour will result in a drier cake.

Consider using room temperature ingredients for better emulsification of fat and liquids.

Can I freeze my pecan pound cake for later?

Absolutely, you can! To freeze a pecan pound cake, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of foil, or place it in a freezer safe bag. It will keep well for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

You can freeze the glaze separately and add it after thawing the cake.

What's the best way to store my pecan pound cake so it stays fresh?

To keep your pecan pound cake moist and delicious, store it at room temperature in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days this way. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as this can dry it out nobody wants a sad, stale slice of cake!

How do I get that beautiful golden brown crust on my pecan pound cake?

That lovely golden crust is all about the Maillard reaction, a chemical reaction between amino acids and reducing sugars that gives browned food its distinctive flavor. Make sure your oven is properly preheated, and don't open the oven door frequently during baking, as this can lower the temperature and hinder browning.

You can also try brushing the top of the cake with melted butter or milk halfway through baking to encourage browning.

Can I adapt this pecan pound cake recipe to use different nuts or flavors?

Definitely! This pecan pound cake recipe is a fantastic base for experimentation. Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes for pecans. For flavor variations, consider adding a tablespoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter.

You could also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warmer, more comforting flavour profile think autumn in a cake tin!

My brown butter glaze is grainy. What went wrong?

A grainy brown butter glaze usually means the butter wasn't cooled enough before adding the powdered sugar, or the powdered sugar wasn't sifted properly. Ensure the browned butter cools for a few minutes to avoid melting the sugar. Also, always sift your powdered sugar to remove any lumps it's a game changer!

Add milk gradually until you reach a smooth consistency.