Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing

Imagine sinking your fork into a soft, buttery loaf cake, where the sweet aroma of toasted pecans mingles with a creamy drizzle of icing that melts in your mouth. One bite of this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing and you’ll be transported to dessert heaven.

I remember the first time I tried making this cake; my kitchen looked like a baking tornado had swept through it. Flour was everywhere, and my dog had claimed a piece of pecan as his new toy. But, oh boy, was it worth it when I finally pulled that golden loaf from the oven—pecan crumbs all over my apron and my heart full of joy.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing is the perfect recipe for both novice bakers and seasoned pros alike. Its easy preparation means you can whip it up on any busy afternoon. The unique flavor profile combines rich butteriness with crunchy pecans, creating a delightful experience in every bite. Not only does it look stunning on the table, but it’s also versatile enough to customize with your favorite nuts or spices. Whether served at brunch or as a sweet snack during the week, this loaf will quickly become a staple in your home.

Ingredients for Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing

Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:

1 cup unsalted butter Use high-quality butter for rich flavor; make sure it’s softened to room temperature for easy mixing.

1 cup granulated sugar A fundamental sweetener to balance the richness of the butter; consider using organic sugar for a more robust taste.

1/2 cup packed brown sugar Adds moisture and deep caramel notes; use light brown sugar for a milder flavor or dark for more depth.

4 large eggs Essential for binding and providing structure; bring them to room temperature for better incorporation.

2 cups all-purpose flour Forms the base of your cake; sift it before measuring to avoid lumps.

1 teaspoon baking powder Helps your cake rise beautifully; ensure it’s fresh for optimal leavening.

1/2 teaspoon baking soda Works alongside baking powder to create that perfect fluffy texture.

1/2 teaspoon salt Enhances all flavors; don’t skip this—it’s a crucial ingredient!

1 cup toasted pecans These provide that signature nutty crunch; toast them lightly in a dry skillet before adding for maximum flavor.

1 cup cream cheese The star of the icing, giving it that luscious creaminess; let it soften before mixing for smooth results.

2 cups powdered sugar For sweetening the icing without grittiness; sift if necessary to avoid lumps.

2 tablespoons milk Use whole or 2% milk to achieve the desired creamy consistency in your icing.

All ingredients with their exact quantities can be found in the recipe card below.

Step-by-Step Preparation Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing

Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare this delicious recipe:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a standard loaf pan thoroughly so that your cake slides right out once it’s baked.

Step 2: Cream Together Butters and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1 cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should look pale and airy—like fluffy clouds ready to become cake!

Step 3: Add Eggs One by One

Next, add in 4 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. You want those eggs incorporated fully before moving on—think of it as giving them a warm welcome into their buttery paradise.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until combined. Gradually add this dry mixture into the wet mixture while alternating with any remaining liquid ingredient (like milk), starting and ending with the flour mix. Fold in 1 cup of toasted pecans gently until evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top with a spatula. Bake in preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While it bakes, resist the urge to peek too often—you might scare away its fluffiness!

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Icing

While your cake is cooling down on a wire rack—patience is key! In another bowl, beat together 1 cup of softened cream cheese and 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth. Add in just enough milk (about 2 tablespoons) until you reach your desired consistency—think spreadable but not runny.

Once fully cooled (and not before!), generously top your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing so each slice has an irresistible creamy layer. Cut yourself a nice thick slice, garnish if desired (a sprinkle of chopped pecans never hurt anyone), and enjoy immediately—you deserve every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To nail the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing, always preheat your oven and measure ingredients accurately. Mixing the batter gently prevents overworking, ensuring a fluffy texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Add Your Personal Touch

Feel free to swap out walnuts for pecans if you’re feeling adventurous. Or try using maple syrup instead of regular sugar for a unique sweetness that elevates your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing.

Storage & Reheating

Store your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze it wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. This helps maintain its moist texture without drying out.

Helpful Chef Tips

Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor and crunchiness in the cake.

Let the cake cool completely before icing; this prevents the cream cheese icing from melting into a gooey mess.

For even slices, use a serrated knife to cut through the soft cake without squishing it.

I remember the first time I baked this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing; my kitchen smelled like a cozy café, and my friends devoured it faster than I could say “seconds!”

Conclusion for Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing

In conclusion, the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will impress your family and friends. The rich, buttery taste of pecans combined with the creamy icing creates a truly indulgent treat. This recipe is not only simple to make but also perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy afternoon snack or a festive gathering. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to delight your taste buds—give this recipe a try today!

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FAQs

How do I store Butter Pecan Cake Loaf?

To store your Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it for about a week. For extended storage, you can freeze the loaf without icing for up to three months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it for freezing.

Can I use different nuts in this recipe?

While this recipe specifically calls for pecans, you can certainly experiment with other nuts if you prefer. Walnuts or almonds could be great alternatives that still provide a lovely crunch and flavor. Just remember to chop them finely, similar to how you would prepare the pecans, to ensure even distribution throughout the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the icing?

If you’re looking for an alternative to cream cheese in the icing, you can use ricotta cheese or mascarpone as substitutes. Both options will offer a creamy texture and mild flavor that works well on the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf. You might need to adjust the sugar slightly based on your taste preference, but these alternatives can create a deliciously smooth icing.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! To make the Butter Pecan Cake Loaf gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum or add it separately if your blend does not contain it. This adjustment will help maintain the structure and texture of the loaf while ensuring everyone can enjoy this tasty treat without gluten.