Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

If you have a weakness for cozy, indulgent desserts that feel like a warm hug, then you are absolutely going to love this Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe. It combines everything wonderful about cinnamon rolls — the gooey cinnamon swirl, the rich cream cheese, and the buttery pecans — all baked into a moist, tender pound cake. Finished with a luscious caramel pecan glaze, this cake is the perfect centerpiece for any gathering or a special treat just for yourself. It’s a glorious mashup of flavors and textures that will have you smiling with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe plays an essential role in creating its irresistible texture and decadent flavor. These simple yet high-quality ingredients come together to make a dessert that tastes as lavish as it looks.

• 1½ cups unsalted butter, softened: Provides a rich, creamy base that keeps the cake moist and tender.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds tanginess and a velvety smooth crumb to the cake.
• 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping with moisture retention.
• 6 large eggs, room temperature: Bind the ingredients and contribute to a light but sturdy crumb.
• 3 cups all-purpose flour: The backbone of the cake’s structure.
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder: Gives the cake a gentle rise without overpowering the texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a comforting warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: The signature spice that ties the cake to its cinnamon roll inspiration.
• ½ cup buttermilk: Brings moisture and a slight tang that brightens the flavor.
• 1 cup chopped pecans (for cinnamon swirl): Adds a wonderful crunch and nutty richness within the swirl.
• ½ cup packed brown sugar (for cinnamon swirl): Caramelizes slightly in the bake, adding depth to the swirl.
• 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for cinnamon swirl): Intensifies the cinnamon flavor inside the swirl.
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for cinnamon swirl): Helps bind the swirl ingredients and adds moistness.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (for glaze): Forms the base of the caramel glaze, rich and silky.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar (for glaze): Brings sweetness and a molasses-like depth to the glaze.
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (for glaze): Adds smoothness and richness to the glaze consistency.
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze): Lifts the flavors in the glaze with aromatic sweetness.
• 1 cup chopped toasted pecans (for glaze): Crunchy, nutty topping that finishes the cake with flair.

How to Make Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Tools and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F and generously greasing a bundt pan. This ensures your pound cake bakes evenly and comes out easily for stunning presentation.

Step 2: Cream the Butter, Cream Cheese, and Sugar

Beat the softened butter, cream cheese, and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is crucial for building a tender cake with incredible texture.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Incorporate the eggs one by one, allowing each to fully blend in before adding the next. Finish by stirring in the vanilla extract, which adds the perfect hint of warmth.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon in a separate bowl. This ensures the leavening and spice are distributed evenly throughout your cake.

Step 5: Alternate Adding Dry Mix and Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in thirds, alternating with the buttermilk. This careful mixing keeps the batter smooth and prevents overworking the gluten, which can toughen the cake.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon Swirl

In a small bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter to create a gooey, crunchy swirl that will add amazing texture and cinnamon flavor inside your cake.

Step 7: Layer the Batter and Swirl

Pour half of the batter into your prepared bundt pan, then sprinkle the cinnamon swirl mixture evenly over it. Add the remaining batter on top and gently swirl with a knife for that signature cinnamon roll look.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake for 70 to 80 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This slow baking time allows the dense pound cake to cook fully without drying out.

Step 9: Cool Before Removing

Let the cake cool in the bundt pan for 15 minutes before turning it out onto a wire rack. This partial cooling helps the cake maintain its beautiful shape.

Step 10: Make the Caramel Pecan Glaze

In a saucepan, melt the butter with the brown sugar over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract until smooth and glossy, then mix in the toasted pecans for a crunchy, caramel nut topping.

Step 11: Glaze the Cake

Pour the warm caramel pecan glaze evenly over the cooled cake. The glaze will soak slightly into the cake and provide a glossy, irresistible finish.

How to Serve Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon on top for a lovely visual and added texture contrast. A dollop of whipped cream or a cream cheese frosting drizzle complements the cake’s richness beautifully.

Side Dishes

This pound cake pairs wonderfully with freshly brewed coffee or a cup of chai tea. For a decadent dessert, serve alongside vanilla ice cream or a scoop of cinnamon-spiced frozen yogurt for a cool contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the cake into generous wedges and plate each with a few extra pecans and a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can also cut small cubes and serve them on skewers with fruit for a charming dessert bite at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap the pound cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It will stay moist and delicious at room temperature for up to three days.

Freezing

This cake freezes very well. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake securely in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

To revive the cake’s soft texture and warm up the caramel glaze, microwave slices for about 15-20 seconds or warm in a low oven (300°F) for 10 minutes. Be careful not to overheat to maintain the cream cheese richness.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to ½ cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using to achieve the slight tang and acidity buttermilk provides.

Is it necessary to toast the pecans?

Toasting pecans enhances their natural oils and flavor, making them crunchier and more fragrant. While not mandatory, lightly toasting pecans will elevate the overall taste of your cake and glaze.

Can I make this recipe in a loaf pan instead of a bundt pan?

Absolutely! Just adjust the baking time and check for doneness earlier, as loaf pans may bake the cake a bit faster. Use a toothpick to test and bake until it comes out clean.

How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?

If you prefer to refrigerate the cake, it will keep for up to 5 days when wrapped tightly. Bring slices to room temperature before eating for the best flavor and texture.

Can I omit the glaze for a less sweet version?

You can skip the caramel pecan glaze if you prefer a less sweet cake. The pound cake itself is rich and flavorful with the cinnamon swirl, but the glaze adds that signature caramel crunch and shine that makes this recipe truly special.

Final Thoughts

This Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cream Cheese Pound Cake Recipe feels like a celebration wrapped up in a cake pan, the perfect balance of sweet, nutty, spicy, and creamy elements. It’s sure to become a beloved favorite whether you’re hosting a brunch, a holiday party, or simply treating yourself on a cozy afternoon. Give it a try — your kitchen will fill with heavenly aromas, and each slice will bring pure joy.

Print