If you’re looking for a moist, nutty, and buttery cake that’s sure to disappear quickly at any bake sale, family gathering, or cozy afternoon tea, look no further than this Butter Pecan Cake Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing.

This cake combines rich butter flavor with toasted pecans, giving each bite a satisfying crunch, while the smooth, tangy cream cheese icing elevates it to a dessert that feels special without requiring complicated steps.

Perfect for gifting, dessert tables, or weekend baking, this cake loaf is easy to make, full of flavor, and adored by everyone who tries it.

Why This Cake is a Crowd-Pleaser

Moist texture: The butter and pecans keep the cake soft and flavorful.
Nutty richness: Toasted pecans enhance both flavor and texture.
Sweet cream cheese icing: Adds a smooth, tangy contrast to the buttery loaf.
Versatile dessert: Ideal for bake sales, brunch, or holiday treats.

Ingredients

Cake
- 1 cup (225 g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups (240 g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ cup (120 ml) milk
- 1 cup (120 g) chopped pecans, toasted
Cream Cheese Icing
- 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (60 g) powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: pinch of salt

Pro Tip: Toasting pecans enhances the nutty flavor and crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat oven: 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
Cream butter and sugar: In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla.
Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Combine: Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with dry ingredients. Fold in toasted pecans.
Bake: Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool completely.
Prepare icing: Beat cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and creamy.
Ice the cake: Spread cream cheese icing over the cooled loaf. Top with additional chopped pecans if desired.
Serve: Slice and enjoy, or wrap for gifting.

Tips for Perfect Butter Pecan Cake

Room temperature ingredients: Helps achieve a smoother batter.
Evenly fold in pecans: Prevents nuts from sinking to the bottom.
Cool completely: Ensures icing doesn’t melt when spread.
Storage: Keep in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Creative Serving Ideas

Serve slices with a cup of coffee or tea for a classic combo.
Dust with powdered sugar for extra presentation flair.
Pair with whipped cream and caramel drizzle for a decadent treat.
Slice thinly and use as a layer in a trifle or dessert parfait.

Variations You Can Try

Chocolate Pecan Loaf: Add ½ cup cocoa powder and a handful of chocolate chips.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a maple glaze instead of cream cheese icing for a warm flavor.
Fruit & Nut: Add chopped dried cranberries or raisins with pecans.
Vegan Option: Use plant-based butter, flax eggs, and vegan cream cheese.