Craving a rich, buttery, and foolproof dessert? This butter pecan pound cake with cake mix is your perfect solution.
With just a handful of ingredients and a boxed cake mix, you will create a moist, flavorful cake that tastes like it’s straight from a Southern bakery.
Toasted pecans add crunch and depth, while sour cream and melted butter ensure every bite is soft and indulgent.
Even if it’s for the holidays, a family dinner, or an afternoon treat with coffee, this bundt cake delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s easy, graceful, and always a crowd-pleaser, no baking stress required.
Why Use Cake Mix for Butter Pecan Pound Cake?
Why use cake mix for butter pecan pound cake? Because it makes baking simpler, faster, and just as delicious.
It saves time since you don’t have to measure flour, sugar, or leavening agents, just open the box, mix the ingredients, and bake.
It also ensures consistent results every time, as cake mixes are carefully formulated for reliability. The mix is easy to customize with additions like sour cream, pudding mix, or toasted pecans to create a rich, homemade flavor.
This method is beneficial for beginners or busy bakers looking for a foolproof dessert that delivers on both taste and texture.
Ingredients You’ll NeedFor the Cake:
Optional glaze:
|
With these easy-to-find ingredients, you’re just steps away from a buttery, pecan-packed pound cake that’s rich, moist, and full of homemade flavor.
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Butter Pecan Pound Cake
This simple step-by-step guide walks you through the process of baking a rich and moist butter pecan pound cake using boxed cake mix.
From prepping your pan to toasting pecans and applying the perfect glaze, every step ensures flavor, texture, and ease for even beginner bakers.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Bundt Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Proper pan preparation is key for a clean release.
Grease and flour a 12-cup bundt pan, making sure to coat every curve, or use a baking spray that includes flour. Set the pan aside while you prepare the rest.
Step 2: Toast the Pecans
To bring out a deep, nutty flavor, toast your chopped pecans before adding them to the batter.
Place them in a dry skillet over medium heat and stir continuously for 3 to 4 minutes until they’re golden and fragrant. Remove from the heat and let them cool completely.
Step 3: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, add butter pecan cake mix, eggs, sour cream, melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract.
Use a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed for about 2 to 3 minutes until smooth. Once combined, gently fold in the cooled toasted pecans.
Step 4: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared bundt pan. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to release any trapped air bubbles.
Place it in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Glaze (Optional)
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a wire rack.
Let it cool completely. If you’re adding glaze, drizzle it over the cooled cake using a spoon or piping bag for a polished finish.
Recipe Note
Before you begin, here’s a quick overview of the recipe details so you can plan your time and servings with ease.
INFORMATION | DETAILS |
---|---|
Prep Time | 15 minutes |
Cook Time | 55 minutes |
Total Time | 1 hour 10 minutes |
Category | Dessert |
Method | Baked |
Cuisine | American |
Yield | 1 bundt cake (about 12 slices) |
This easy recipe fits perfectly into your weekend baking plans or special occasions, yielding a rich dessert everyone will love to share.
Serving Suggestions
This butter pecan pound cake is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of flavors and settings.
If you’re serving guests or treating yourself, here are a few delicious ways to enjoy it:
Warm with Vanilla Ice Cream
Serve the cake slightly warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy, cold ice cream melts gently over the soft, buttery cake, creating a rich contrast in texture and temperature.
This pairing is perfect for dessert after dinner and makes an ordinary evening feel extra special.
Chilled with a Cup of Coffee
Let the cake chill in the fridge and serve it cold with a fresh cup of coffee or espresso.
The dense, buttery texture of the cake complements the bold bitterness of coffee, making it an excellent afternoon pick-me-up or weekend brunch treat with minimal effort required.
As a Holiday Dessert with Whipped Cream
Make it festive by topping the cake with freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
The light cream balances the richness of the pound cake, and the added nuts enhance the texture. This delicious presentation makes it ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special celebration.
Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Pound Cake
To make sure your butter pecan pound cake turns out soft, moist, and flavorful, follow these easy tips:
- Use room temperature eggs and sour cream for a smoother batter
- Mix the batter just until combined to avoid a dense texture
- Toast the pecans to bring out a rich, nutty flavor
- Grease the bundt pan well to prevent sticking, especially in detailed pans
These small steps can make a big difference in how your cake looks and tastes.
Nutrition Facts
This butter pecan pound cake delivers a rich, moist bite in every slice, ideal for dessert or special occasions.
NUTRITION INFORMATION | PER SLICE (APPROX. 95 G) |
---|---|
Calories | 390 kcal |
Sugar | 27 g |
Sodium | 310 mg |
Fat | 20 g |
Carbohydrates | 47 g |
Fiber | 1 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Cholesterol | 65 mg |
Note: Nutrition values are estimated based on a 12-slice yield from one cake made with butter pecan cake mix, butter, sour cream, and eggs. Individual results may vary slightly depending on ingredients and baking methods.
Storage and Freezing Tips
Keep your butter pecan pound cake fresh and delicious by storing it properly. Here’s how:
- Store at room temperature for up to 3 days
- Refrigerate for up to 5 to 6 days
- Freeze slices for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving
Proper storage helps maintain moisture and flavor, so you can enjoy every bite, fresh or later.
Final Thoughts
This butter pecan pound cake with cake mix is the perfect combination of ease and indulgence.
With its rich flavor, moist texture, and delightful crunch from toasted pecans, it’s a dessert that feels both classic and comforting.
Whether you’re serving it warm with ice cream or saving slices for later, this cake never disappoints. Ideal for holidays, family dinners, or just a sweet weekday treat, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Ready to impress your guests or indulge yourself? Try this butter pecan pound cake today and bring bakery-quality flavor straight to your kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix Flavor?
Yes! You can substitute with yellow or vanilla cake mix, but the butter pecan flavor gives the best results. Add ½ tsp butter extract and more pecans if using a substitute.
Can I Make This in a Loaf Pan or Sheet Pan?
Yes. For loaf pans, divide the batter into two portions and bake for 45–50 minutes. For a sheet pan, reduce the time and check after 30 minutes.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Cake?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free butter pecan cake mix. Just make sure all other ingredients are also labeled gluten-free.
What If I Don’t Have Sour Cream on Hand?
Sour cream adds moisture and richness to the cake. You can replace it with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk for similar results.