Butter Pecan Pound Cake with Caramel Glaze

Introduction

Butter pecan pound cake is a Southern classic that combines the richness of a buttery pound cake with the nutty crunch of toasted pecans. The addition of a silky caramel glaze elevates the cake into a decadent masterpiece perfect for holidays, potlucks, or Sunday family dinners. Imagine a moist, dense crumb bursting with caramelized pecan flavor, topped with a drizzle of golden caramel that melts in your mouth—it’s the kind of cake that makes memories.

A Little History

The pound cake has deep European roots, first created in the early 1700s, named after the traditional recipe of a pound each of flour, butter, sugar, and eggs. Over time, bakers across America adapted the recipe, particularly in the South, where pecans are abundant. Adding pecans gave it a regional twist, while caramel glaze reflected the South’s love for warm, sugary sauces. Today, butter pecan pound cake is a beloved heritage dessert, often passed down through generations.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• ½ cup vegetable shortening (adds tenderness)
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 6 large eggs, room temperature
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk for tang)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon butter extract (optional, enhances richness)
• 1 ½ cups chopped pecans, toasted in butter

For the Caramel Glaze:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
• ⅓ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Preparing the Pecans:

1. In a skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
2. Add chopped pecans and toast them for 4–5 minutes until fragrant, stirring often.
3. Set aside to cool.

Making the Pound Cake:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a bundt or tube pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream butter, shortening, and sugar together until light and fluffy (about 4–5 minutes).
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk into the creamed mixture, starting and ending with flour.
6. Mix in vanilla and butter extract.
7. Fold in the toasted pecans gently with a spatula.
8. Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan.
9. Bake for 75–85 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Let cool in pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Making the Caramel Glaze:

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in brown sugar and cook for 2 minutes until smooth.
3. Add heavy cream, vanilla, and salt. Whisk until creamy.
4. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.
5. Let glaze cool slightly until thickened but pourable.
6. Drizzle generously over cooled cake.

Methods & Tips

• Toasting pecans intensifies their flavor, making the cake richer.
• Creaming butter and sugar properly ensures a light texture. Beat until pale and fluffy.
• Room temperature ingredients help everything blend smoothly.
• Store cake at room temperature for 3 days or in the fridge for up to a week. It also freezes well (unglazed).

Benefits

• Pecans are packed with healthy fats, antioxidants, and minerals.
• Homemade glaze means no preservatives or artificial syrups.
• This cake is versatile—perfect for celebrations, gifting, or even breakfast with coffee.
• A comfort dessert that uplifts mood and connects generations.

Formation (Serving Ideas)

• Serve warm slices with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Sprinkle extra toasted pecans on top of the glaze for added crunch.
• For a holiday touch, drizzle with white chocolate or top with candied pecans.

Conclusion

Butter Pecan Pound Cake with Caramel Glaze is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of tradition, love, and indulgence. Each bite blends the buttery richness of pound cake, the nutty crunch of pecans, and the velvety sweetness of caramel. It’s the perfect cake to bake when you want to impress guests, spoil your family, or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary.