Butter Pecan Pound Cake with Thick Cream Cheese Glaze

There’s something deeply comforting about a Butter Pecan Pound Cake. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like home — warm, buttery, and rich with roasted pecans that crackle softly in every bite. Topped with a smooth, thick Cream Cheese Glaze, it becomes the kind of cake that invites everyone back for seconds, whether it’s served on a holiday table or during a quiet afternoon with coffee.

Each slice tells a story of Southern hospitality — golden, dense, yet impossibly tender. The brown sugar brings caramel warmth, the butter melts into every crumb, and the pecans add a toasted nuttiness that makes the flavor unforgettable. Then, the glaze — creamy, luscious, and just tangy enough to balance the sweetness — drapes over the cake like a velvet ribbon.

The Southern Secret to a Perfect Pound Cake

The true magic of a pound cake lies in its texture. It’s not meant to be fluffy like a sponge cake — it’s dense yet tender, buttery yet balanced. The trick is in the creaming process — whipping butter and sugar until they’re light and airy, then blending in eggs, flour, and buttermilk with care. When done right, the result is a cake that’s rich, moist, and beautifully golden all over.

And when pecans enter the mix, the flavor deepens. Toasting them brings out their natural oils and intensifies their aroma. Each bite becomes a blend of nutty crunch and smooth crumb, finished off with that dreamy glaze that clings perfectly to the top and drips just enough down the sides.

A Cake for Every Occasion

This Butter Pecan Pound Cake isn’t just for holidays — though it shines on any festive table. It’s perfect for Sunday dinners, birthdays, coffee mornings, or even as a homemade gift wrapped in parchment and tied with a ribbon. There’s a timeless grace to it, the kind that makes people pause for a moment before their first bite, savoring the scent and the promise of sweetness.

Let’s explore how each ingredient plays its part in creating this classic — because when you understand the why behind the what, your cake won’t just turn out delicious, it’ll turn out perfect every single time.

Ingredients – Every Element Has a Purpose

Behind every unforgettable pound cake lies a perfect balance of texture, moisture, and flavor. Each ingredient below was chosen not just for taste, but for how it transforms the batter into something luxurious and comforting. Understanding what each one does helps ensure your Butter Pecan Pound Cake comes out bakery-perfect every time.

For the Cake:

• 3 cups Cake Flour – The foundation of a tender crumb. Cake flour has less protein than all-purpose, giving the cake its fine, velvety texture instead of a dense bite.
• 2 cups Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness, yes, but also structure. Sugar helps create that golden crust and keeps the crumb moist by holding onto moisture during baking.
• 1 cup Packed Brown Sugar – Brings a hint of molasses and depth of flavor. It enhances the cake’s caramel notes and adds richness that complements the toasted pecans beautifully.
• 1½ cups (3 sticks) Unsalted Butter, room temperature – The soul of any true pound cake. Butter gives richness, moisture, and a smooth melt-in-your-mouth feel. Make sure it’s softened, not melted.
• 5 large Eggs, room temperature – Provide structure, moisture, and that classic pound cake density. Room temperature eggs blend better, keeping the batter smooth and creamy.
• 1 cup Whole Buttermilk, room temperature – The secret to tenderness. Buttermilk’s mild acidity softens the gluten, giving a moist, delicate crumb.
• ½ teaspoon Baking Powder – Just enough to give a gentle lift without compromising that signature pound cake heft.
• ¼ teaspoon Salt – A little salt goes a long way in amplifying every buttery, nutty, and sweet note in the cake.
• 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract – Adds warmth and familiarity. It ties together all the rich, buttery elements into one harmonious flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Pound Cake Extract (optional) – For those who love that old-fashioned, bakery-style aroma, this extract adds an extra touch of luxury and depth.
• 2 cups Toasted Pecans, chopped – The heart of this recipe. Toasting releases their natural oils, enhancing their nutty, buttery flavor and giving each bite a delightful crunch.

For the Thick Cream Cheese Glaze:

• 2 cups Powdered Sugar – The sweet foundation of a smooth, thick glaze that drapes beautifully over the cake.
• 4 oz Unsalted Butter, softened – Gives body, shine, and a rich buttery flavor that complements the tang of cream cheese.
• 4 oz Cream Cheese – The key to a glaze that’s not just sweet, but perfectly balanced. Its subtle tang cuts through the richness of the cake, creating a heavenly contrast.
• 4 teaspoons Half and Half (or milk) – Adjusts the texture for the ideal drizzle — thick enough to stay in place, yet silky enough to pour gracefully over the top.

Creating the Perfect Batter

Once your ingredients are ready, the key is to respect the order of mixing. Creaming butter and sugar first introduces air for lightness, while alternating the flour and buttermilk keeps the texture even. Overmixing can toughen the crumb — so mix only until combined for the smoothest, silkiest batter possible.

With everything measured and prepped, you’re just a few simple steps away from baking a cake that will fill your kitchen with the sweet scent of toasted pecans and melting butter. Let’s begin the process — and don’t rush it; great pound cakes reward patience.

How to Make Butter Pecan Pound Cake

Now that your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to turn them into a cake that’s golden, tender, and bursting with toasted pecan flavor. Follow these steps carefully — each stage adds to the cake’s richness and perfect texture.

1. Preheat and prepare the pan:
   Set your oven to 325°F (160°C). Grease a tube or Bundt pan thoroughly, then lightly flour it. This ensures the cake releases cleanly after baking.
2. Cream butter and sugars:
   In a large mixing bowl, beat the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3–7 minutes. The texture should be pale and airy — this step creates the base for a tender crumb.
3. Add eggs:
   Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This gradual blending helps maintain a smooth, creamy batter without deflating it.
4. Flavor the batter:
   Stir in vanilla extract and optional pound cake extract until fully combined. The aroma will be rich and inviting — a sign you’re on the right track.
5. Alternate dry and wet ingredients:
   Mix the cake flour in three parts and buttermilk in two parts, beginning and ending with flour. Stir gently after each addition until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the crumb tender.
6. Fold in toasted pecans:
   Gently incorporate the chopped toasted pecans with a spatula. Ensure even distribution without crushing them, keeping their delightful crunch intact.
7. Pour batter and smooth:
   Transfer the batter into the prepared pan and level the top gently with a spatula. This step ensures even baking and a beautiful presentation.
8. Bake to perfection:
   Bake for 1 hour and 10 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top, with a firm yet tender texture inside.
9. Cool before glazing:
   Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely before applying the cream cheese glaze.

Making the Thick Cream Cheese Glaze

1. Combine butter and cream cheese:
   In a medium bowl, beat softened butter and cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add powdered sugar:
   Gradually mix in powdered sugar until fully incorporated, creating a thick, luscious base.
3. Adjust consistency:
   Stir in half and half one teaspoon at a time until the glaze reaches the desired drizzle consistency — thick enough to hold shape but smooth enough to pour.
4. Apply the glaze:
   Drizzle over the cooled cake using a spoon or small spatula. Let it settle and slightly set before slicing, so each piece gets a perfect coat of creamy sweetness.

Following these steps carefully ensures a cake that’s buttery, tender, and nutty — with a thick, rich glaze that ties it all together. Every slice becomes a moment of indulgence.

Why Everyone Loves This Butter Pecan Pound Cake

This cake is beloved for more than its rich flavor. Each bite combines the buttery, dense pound cake texture with the nutty crunch of toasted pecans, finishing with a creamy, tangy glaze that elevates the dessert to something truly luxurious. It’s a cake that feels like a warm hug — indulgent but never overwhelming.

It’s versatile too. Perfect for special occasions, yet effortless enough for a cozy afternoon treat. The toasted pecans and brown sugar create a deep, caramel-like aroma, while the cream cheese glaze balances sweetness with a gentle tang, making it irresistible to all palates.

Serving Suggestions – Elevate Every Occasion

• Holiday tables: Slice and serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a festive centerpiece.
• Casual gatherings: Pair with coffee or tea for an indulgent afternoon treat that’s both comforting and elegant.
• Special presentations: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a few whole pecans on top for a visual and flavorful enhancement.
• Gifting: Wrap slices in parchment with a ribbon — a homemade gift that feels luxurious.

Storage Tips – Keeping Your Cake Perfect

• Room temperature: Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. Ensure the glaze is set before covering to avoid smudging.
• Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This maintains the glaze’s creaminess and the cake’s moist texture.
• Refreshing leftovers: Allow chilled slices to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the perfect soft bite.
• Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and drizzle fresh glaze before serving.

With proper storage, the flavors only deepen, and the texture remains moist, making this cake a dessert you can enjoy multiple times throughout the week.

Bringing It All Together – A Slice of Southern Luxury

At its core, Butter Pecan Pound Cake with Thick Cream Cheese Glaze is more than a dessert. It’s a celebration of texture, flavor, and warmth. The rich, buttery crumb pairs perfectly with the nutty crunch of toasted pecans, and the thick cream cheese glaze ties everything together with a luscious finish.

Every slice tells a story — the aroma of toasted nuts, the caramel notes from brown sugar, the silky butter, and the gentle tang of cream cheese glaze. It’s the kind of cake that invites conversation, evokes nostalgia, and makes every occasion feel special.

Perfect for Any Occasion

• Holiday feasts: A standout dessert that complements turkey, ham, or roast dinners.
• Everyday indulgence: Pair with coffee or tea for a comforting treat that feels decadent yet effortless.
• Gifting: Wrapped in parchment with a ribbon, it’s a heartfelt homemade gift that exudes warmth and sophistication.

This pound cake proves that elegance doesn’t need complexity. With simple, high-quality ingredients, careful preparation, and a little patience, you can create a dessert that’s both indulgent and timeless. It’s rich, tender, nutty, and gloriously glazed — a cake that will be requested again and again.

Easy to make, unforgettable to taste, and perfect for sharing — that’s the magic of Butter Pecan Pound Cake with Thick Cream Cheese Glaze.