Butter Pecan Loaf, Cream Cheese Icing

A Butter Pecan Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing is a delightful treat that combines rich flavors and a moist texture, making it ideal for celebrations or a cozy afternoon tea. This cake offers a unique buttery taste with crunchy pecans, all topped with a creamy icing that adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just want to indulge yourself, this loaf is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of butter, pecans, and cream cheese creates a rich taste that is hard to resist.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create this impressive dessert.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—from birthday parties to holiday gatherings or simply as an afternoon snack.
• Moist Texture: The use of buttermilk ensures the loaf stays tender and moist every time you bake it.
• Customizable Toppings: You can add extra nuts or even drizzle chocolate for added flair.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make the baking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Mixing bowls (large and medium)
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×5-inch loaf pan: This size ensures even baking and gives the perfect shape to your Butter Pecan Loaf.
• Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy, resulting in a light and fluffy batter.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for folding in ingredients without overmixing, which helps maintain the loaf’s texture.

Ingredients

A buttery, rich pecan cake loaf topped with creamy icing, perfect for celebrations or afternoon tea!

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened.
• 2 cups granulated sugar.
• 4 large eggs.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
• 1 teaspoon butter extract (optional for extra flavor).
• 2 cups all-purpose flour.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda.
• ½ teaspoon salt.
• 1 cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar added).
• 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened (for icing).
• 4 cups powdered sugar.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for icing).
• 1-2 tablespoons milk (to achieve desired consistency).

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Butter Pecan Loaf, Cream Cheese Icing

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

Toast the chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for about
5–7 minutes. Stir frequently until they are golden and fragrant. Set aside to cool.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 4: Add Eggs & Extracts

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla and optional butter extracts.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.

Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 7: Fold in Pecans

Gently fold in the toasted pecans using a rubber spatula.

Step 8: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.

Step 9: Bake the Loaf

Bake your Butter Pecan Loaf for about
55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 10: Cool the Cake

Let the cake cool in its pan for about
10–15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 11: Prepare Cream Cheese Icing

For your icing, beat together softened cream cheese and butter in a mixing bowl until smooth.

Step 12: Add Powdered Sugar & Vanilla

Gradually add powdered sugar to the mixture until fully combined. Stir in vanilla extract. Adjust consistency by adding milk if needed.

Step 13: Ice Your Cake

Once completely cooled, spread the cream cheese icing generously over your Butter Pecan Loaf. For decoration, you might add more chopped pecans if desired.

How to Serve Butter Pecan Loaf, Cream Cheese Icing

Butter Pecan Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a cozy afternoon tea or a festive celebration, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries: The sweetness of strawberries complements the rich flavors of the loaf.
• Citrus Segments: Oranges or grapefruits add a refreshing contrast to the buttery cake.
• Mixed Berries: Blueberries and raspberries provide a burst of tartness.

Pairing with Beverages

• Coffee: A warm cup of coffee pairs perfectly with the sweet icing and nutty flavor.
• Tea: Herbal or black teas enhance the cake’s richness.
• Milk: A classic choice, milk balances the sweetness of the icing.

Adding Extra Toppings

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds an airy texture that’s delightful.
• Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of caramel sauce enhances flavor and presentation.
• Chopped Nuts: Extra toasted pecans on top provide additional crunch.

How to Perfect Butter Pecan Loaf, Cream Cheese Icing

Creating the perfect Butter Pecan Loaf takes attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your loaf turns out delicious every time.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon flour into the measuring cup and level it off for accurate measurement; this prevents a dense loaf.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Mix until just combined to avoid a tough loaf; overmixing can lead to gluten development.
• Toast Your Pecans Well: Toasting enhances their flavor; keep an eye on them as they can burn quickly.
• Cool Completely Before Icing: Ensure the loaf is completely cooled before adding icing to prevent it from melting and losing shape.
• Adjust Icing Consistency: Use milk gradually in your cream cheese icing until you achieve your desired spreadability.

Best Side Dishes for Butter Pecan Loaf, Cream Cheese Icing

Butter Pecan Loaf is versatile and pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some great options that complement this delicious cake.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm loaf.
2. Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad provides brightness and balances the richness of the cake.
3. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce elevates your dessert experience with extra indulgence.
4. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy side that contrasts beautifully with the sweet loaf.
5. Spiced Tea Cake: Serve alongside another spiced cake for a delightful dessert platter.
6. Savory Cheese Platter: Include a mix of cheeses that can offset the sweetness for an interesting flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking the Butter Pecan Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls to ensure a perfect result. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Not Softening Butter: Using cold butter can lead to a dense loaf. Always soften your butter before creaming it with sugar for a light texture.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can result in a tough loaf. Stir until just combined to keep it tender and fluffy.

• Forgetting to Toast Pecans: Skipping this step can lead to a bland flavor. Toast your pecans for enhanced taste and aroma.

• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time. Use an oven thermometer to ensure accuracy.

• Ignoring Cooling Time: Cutting into the loaf too soon can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The Butter Pecan Loaf lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Keep the cream cheese icing separate if possible for freshness.

Freezing Butter Pecan Loaf, Cream Cheese Icing

• Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For icing, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Reheating Butter Pecan Loaf, Cream Cheese Icing

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the loaf in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.

• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.

• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Butter Pecan Loaf gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.

Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?

Yes! You can replace pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile.

What is the best way to store leftover cream cheese icing?

Store leftover icing in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

How do I prevent my Butter Pecan Loaf from being dry?

Make sure not to overbake and check doneness with a toothpick. Adding buttermilk keeps it moist.

Final Thoughts

The Butter Pecan Loaf topped with Cream Cheese Icing is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its rich buttery flavor combined with creamy icing makes it an irresistible treat. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding chocolate chips or experimenting with different nuts! Enjoy baking this delightful loaf!