Description
A moist and tender buttermilk loaf cake loaded with toasted pecans and topped with a rich, buttery praline glaze. This Southern classic is perfect for dessert or a sweet afternoon treat.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 1 cup pecans, toasted and chopped
- For the praline glaze:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar, sifted
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup pecan halves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Beat in vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture, beginning and ending with flour. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- To make the praline glaze: In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Whisk in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth. Let cool slightly to thicken.
- Pour the glaze over the cooled cake, letting it drip down the sides. Garnish with pecan halves.
- Allow the glaze to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
You can customize the seasonings to taste. For extra richness, add a teaspoon of bourbon to the glaze. Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Method: Dessert
- Cuisine: Southern