Pecan Praline Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe

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If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the South, the Pecan Praline Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. This cake is a rich, buttery marvel with the perfect balance of a tender crumb infused with tangy buttermilk and studded with toasted pecans for that irresistible crunch. Topped with a luscious, caramelized praline glaze that’s studded with even more pecans, it’s a true showstopper that will steal the spotlight at any gathering. Whether it’s a holiday feast, a casual potluck, or a quiet weekend treat, this cake brings the kind of comfort and elegance that makes each slice unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Pecan Praline Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe starts with a few simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role—the butter and shortening offer a rich texture, the buttermilk adds moisture and that signature tang, and the toasted pecans bring depth and crunch to every bite. The praline glaze uses brown sugar and cream to create a sweet, silky finish that perfectly complements the dense cake.

• 1 cup unsalted butter (softened): Provides the rich, creamy base that makes the cake incredibly tender.
• ½ cup vegetable shortening: Helps deliver a moist, soft crumb and enhances texture.
• 3 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake uniformly while aiding in moisture retention.
• 5 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and lend structure and richness.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: Forms the sturdy foundation of the cake’s dense crumb.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Reacts with buttermilk to give a slight lift and tenderness.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1 cup buttermilk (room temperature): Adds beautiful tanginess and moistness to the cake.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Amplifies the warm, buttery flavors in the cake.
• 1 ½ cups chopped pecans (toasted): Infuses a toasty, nutty crunch that’s absolutely essential.
• For the Praline Glaze:
• ½ cup unsalted butter: Creates a silky, luscious base for the glaze.
• 1 cup brown sugar (packed): Provides rich caramel notes and sweetness.
• ¼ cup heavy cream: Adds smoothness and richness to the glaze.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Gives depth and warmth to the praline flavors.
• ½ cup chopped pecans: Adds texture and more nutty goodness to top off the glaze.

How to Make Pecan Praline Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Generously grease and flour a 10-inch Bundt pan to ensure your gorgeous cake releases easily, preserving its beautiful shape and praline glaze-ready surface. Preparation here is key to a flawless cake.

Step 2: Cream the Butters and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable shortening, and sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is where air is incorporated to give the cake that tender crumb, and you’ll notice the mixture transforms from dull to luscious.

Step 3: Incorporate the Eggs

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This slow incorporation ensures the eggs emulsify perfectly with the fat and sugar, creating a smooth, rich batter that will rise beautifully and hold all that buttery goodness.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl. This combination helps distribute these ingredients evenly throughout your batter, avoiding clumps and ensuring the cake has a consistent rise and flavor.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Alternately

Add the flour mixture to your butter and egg mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix just until combined—overmixing can make the cake tough, so gentle hands here will yield a tender crumb.

Step 6: Stir in Flavorings and Pecans

Fold in the vanilla extract and toasted pecans carefully. The pecans add that signature texture and nutty aroma that makes this cake so beloved. Toasting them beforehand really brings out their flavor and crunch.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared Bundt pan, smoothing the top for an even rise. Bake for 1 hour and 15–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. After baking, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes to set before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 8: Make the Praline Glaze

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and chopped pecans. Allow the glaze to cool slightly—this makes it perfect for pouring over the cooled cake without it running right off.

How to Serve Pecan Praline Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans can elevate the visual appeal and texture of this cake. For a touch of color, fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream make inviting compliments to each slice.

Side Dishes

This pound cake pairs beautifully with fresh fruit like sliced peaches or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the rich sweetness. A hot cup of coffee or strong black tea also complements the praline glaze perfectly, making it a wonderfully indulgent dessert or afternoon treat.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, drizzle some of the praline glaze over individual slices and garnish with a pecan half. Alternatively, serve layered with whipped cream and caramel sauce for a decadent trifle that will wow your guests. No matter how you present it, this cake always impresses!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Pecan Praline Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe fresh, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays moist and delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for enjoying day after day without losing any charm.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. When stored this way, it can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating

Warm up slices gently in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or in a low oven (300°F/150°C) for about 10 minutes. Reheating helps revive that buttery, tender texture and melts the praline glaze slightly, bringing it back to life like fresh out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk?

While you can use milk mixed with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a buttermilk substitute, using actual buttermilk gives the cake its signature tang and tender crumb, which is hard to replicate with regular milk alone.

How do I toast pecans properly?

Toast pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until they’re fragrant and slightly browned. Alternatively, toast them in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes, spreading them in a single layer on a baking sheet. This enhances their flavor and crunch.

Can I make this cake in a different pan?

A Bundt pan is ideal for even baking and a beautiful presentation, but you can use a 9×13 inch pan if needed. Adjust baking time accordingly and check for doneness with a toothpick while baking.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, the Pecan Praline Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe contains no meat products, making it a delicious vegetarian-friendly dessert option.

What’s the benefit of adding shortening along with butter?

Shortening helps create a tender, moist crumb because it prevents the formation of gluten to some extent. Combined with butter’s rich flavor, it balances both texture and taste beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend trying this Pecan Praline Buttermilk Pound Cake Recipe enough when you want to treat yourself or your loved ones to something truly special. It feels like a slice of Southern hospitality wrapped in buttery, nutty, and sweet perfection. Trust me, once you taste it, this cake will become your new classic for every celebration or cozy day at home.

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