Description
Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is the epitome of dessert indulgence! With layers of moist cake, nutty pecans, and luscious caramel, every bite is a celebration of flavor. Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cake promises to impress both your taste buds and your Instagram followers. Get ready to create a showstopper that everyone will be talking about!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
For the Caramel Filling:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Frosting:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
Beat together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until fluffy and light. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the butter-sugar mixture, alternating with the whole milk. Finally, fold in the chopped pecans.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool for a few minutes in the pans before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 5: Prepare the Caramel Filling
In a saucepan, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and unsalted butter. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring continuously until combined. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let the caramel filling cool to thicken.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
Beat softened unsalted butter until smooth. Mix in your homemade caramel sauce, then gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until smooth. Add heavy cream a little at a time until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
Step 7: Assemble the Cake
Layer the cooled cakes by spreading caramel filling between the layers. Use the frosting to frost the outside of the cake. Drizzle additional caramel sauce on top and decorate with more chopped pecans for an impressive finish.
Step 8: Serve
Slice the cake, serve, and get ready for compliments!
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate.
Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the cake by modifying the amount of caramel or powdered sugar to your taste.
Pecan Variation
If you prefer a different nut, walnuts or almonds can be substituted for pecans for a different flavor profile.
Presentation
For a more visually appealing presentation, consider using decorative piping techniques for the frosting.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes