There are some recipes that instantly feel like home, and Butter Pecan Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing is one of them. Rich, buttery, and filled with toasted pecans, this loaf strikes the perfect balance between tender crumb and indulgent flavor. Finished with a silky cream cheese icing that melts slightly into the warm bread, it’s the kind of dessert (or breakfast treat) that feels both nostalgic and elevated.

This loaf is inspired by classic Southern butter pecan flavors, reimagined into a simple, approachable quick bread you can make without any special equipment. Whether you’re baking for a fall gathering, a weekend brunch, or just to enjoy with your morning coffee, this recipe delivers bakery-quality results from your own kitchen.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make the perfect butter pecan loaf, along with expert tips, flavor variations, storage advice, and serving ideas. If you’re searching for a pecan loaf recipe that’s moist, flavorful, and crowned with irresistible cream cheese icing, you’re in the right place.

Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Loaf

This recipe isn’t just another quick bread—it’s a full sensory experience.

First, the butter-forward flavor sets the foundation. Butter is browned lightly or deeply creamed (depending on your preference), giving the loaf a rich, nutty undertone that complements the pecans beautifully. Second, the toasted pecans add crunch, warmth, and unmistakable Southern charm. Finally, the cream cheese icing ties everything together with a tangy sweetness that balances the loaf’s richness.

Here’s what makes it special:

Moist, tender crumb that stays soft for days
Toasted pecans in every bite
Cream cheese icing that’s not overly sweet
Simple ingredients, big flavor payoff
Perfect for fall, holidays, or everyday baking

The Flavor Story: Butter + Pecans + Cream Cheese

Butter pecan is a flavor deeply rooted in American baking, especially in Southern cuisine. Traditionally found in ice cream and cakes, the combination of buttery richness and toasted pecans evokes warmth, comfort, and indulgence.

By turning those flavors into a butter pecan quick bread, we get the best of all worlds: easy preparation, sliceable convenience, and a texture that works beautifully with cream cheese icing. The icing isn’t just decoration—it adds a tangy contrast that keeps the loaf from tasting too heavy.

This recipe celebrates balance. Every element has a purpose, and together they create a loaf that feels refined yet familiar.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is everything required to make this homemade butter pecan loaf with cream cheese icing. Each ingredient plays a role in building flavor and texture.

Ingredients:

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Milk or buttermilk
Toasted pecans

Cream Cheese Icing:

Cream cheese, softened
Unsalted butter, softened
Powdered sugar
Vanilla extract
Milk or cream (as needed)

Instructions: Step-by-Step Butter Pecan Loaf

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper, leaving overhang for easy removal.
Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool, then roughly chop.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugars until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air and ensures a tender loaf.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients. Mix just until combined.
Fold in the toasted pecans gently to avoid overmixing.
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the cream cheese icing by beating cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until pourable.
Drizzle icing over the cooled loaf, allowing it to drip naturally down the sides. Slice and serve.

Expert Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Bread

Toast the pecans: This step enhances flavor dramatically and prevents a raw nut taste.
Room-temperature ingredients blend more smoothly and improve texture.
Don’t overmix once flour is added—this keeps the loaf tender.
Cool completely before icing if you want a thick drizzle instead of a melt-in glaze.
Use real butter, not margarine, for authentic butter pecan flavor.

Delicious Variations to Try

One of the joys of quick bread is how adaptable it is. Try these creative twists:

Maple Butter Pecan Loaf: Replace vanilla with maple extract and drizzle with maple cream cheese icing.
Brown Butter Version: Brown the butter before mixing for deeper nutty flavor.
Mini Loaves: Perfect for gifting during the holidays.
Spiced Butter Pecan Bread: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Serving Suggestions

This butter pecan loaf shines in many settings:

Serve warm with coffee or tea for breakfast
Add to a brunch spread alongside fruit and eggs
Slice and serve as an afternoon snack
Dress it up with whipped cream for dessert
Wrap individual slices for lunchbox treats

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Room temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps up to 5 days due to cream cheese icing.
Freezer: Freeze un-iced loaf for up to 2 months. Thaw and ice before serving.

Fun Fact: Why Butter Pecan Is a Southern Favorite

Butter pecan became popular in the U.S. during the early 20th century, particularly in Southern states where pecans are abundant. Its popularity grew through ice cream and holiday desserts, eventually becoming a year-round favorite. This loaf pays homage to that tradition while making it accessible for modern home bakers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that feels cozy, indulgent, and timeless, Butter Pecan Loaf with Cream Cheese Icing delivers every time. It’s simple enough for everyday baking yet special enough for celebrations. One slice is never enough—and that’s exactly how it should be.