Butter Cream Pecan Pound Cake

This Butter Cream Pecan Pound Cake is the perfect combination of a rich, buttery texture with the crunchy sweetness of pecans. The cake is moist and flavorful, and the addition of the pecans gives it a wonderful nutty crunch. It’s perfect for holidays, special occasions, or anytime you want to indulge in a deliciously dense and buttery dessert.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
• 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
• 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted

For the Buttercream Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (or more, as needed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan or tube pan. You can also line the pan with parchment paper for easier removal.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes. Use an electric mixer for the best results.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and almond extract (if using).
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
7. Gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Buttercream Frosting

1. While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Add the heavy cream, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. If you want it thicker, add more powdered sugar; if you want it thinner, add a bit more cream.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract and beat until smooth and fluffy.

Step 4: Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake has completely cooled, spread a layer of buttercream frosting over the top of the cake. You can also frost the sides if you like.
2. Garnish the cake with additional chopped pecans for extra texture and decoration.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice the cake into wedges and serve.
2. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea and makes an excellent dessert for any gathering or family meal.

Tips and Variations:

1. Toasting Pecans: For added flavor, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown. Allow them to cool before adding them to the batter.
2. Adding Flavor: You can experiment with different extracts like coconut or hazelnut to give the cake a unique twist.
3. Moisture Boost: For an extra moist cake, substitute part of the sour cream with Greek yogurt or buttermilk.
4. Glaze: If you prefer a glaze instead of frosting, you can make a simple glaze by mixing powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth and pour it over the cake after it’s cooled.

Why You’ll Love This Cake:

• Rich and Buttery: The cake is dense, moist, and packed with buttery goodness.
• Nutty Flavor: The pecans add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the soft texture of the cake.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for a holiday, a family gathering, or just a treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to please everyone.

This Butter Cream Pecan Pound Cake is the ultimate dessert for those who love rich, buttery flavors and the crunch of toasted pecans. Its perfect balance of sweetness and richness makes it a must-try for any occasion. Enjoy!