Southern Pecan Caramel Cake
A delightful Southern Pecan Caramel Cake combining rich, buttery cake with crunchy pecans and silky caramel sauce, perfect for gatherings or a sweet indulgence.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup chopped pecans Feel free to toast them for extra flavor!
For the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is combined before adding the next. Mix in the flour and baking powder, alternating with the milk.
- Fold in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans to create a thick batter.
Baking
- Evenly distribute the batter into the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks.
Caramel Preparation
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, unsalted butter, and heavy cream.
- Stir until the mixture comes to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Assembly
- Once cakes are completely cool, stack them up by placing one cake layer on a plate.
- Drizzle caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans.
- Repeat with the second layer and top with the last cake layer.
- Pour the remaining caramel sauce over the top, allowing it to flow down the sides.
Notes
Caramel tip: If your caramel is lumpy, additional heat and a whisk will help. Toast pecans for enhanced flavor, approximately 5 minutes in a dry skillet. This cake tastes even better the next day!