Southern Pecan Caramel Cake

Decadent Southern Pecan Caramel Cake

Ingredients:

– 1 cup chopped pecans

– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

– 2 cups granulated sugar

– 4 large eggs

– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

– 3 cups all-purpose flour

– 1 teaspoon baking powder

– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1 cup buttermilk

– 1 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Directions:

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
  2. Spread chopped pecans evenly on a baking sheet and toast in the preheated oven for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
  5. In a separate bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined.
  7. Fold in toasted pecans.
  8. Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the batter. Repeat layers.
  9. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Kcal: 380 kcal | Servings: 12 servings

FAQs:

  1. What ingredients do I need to make Southern Pecan Caramel Cake?
    • To make Southern Pecan Caramel Cake, you will need ingredients such as all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, milk, chopped pecans (for the cake and frosting), brown sugar, heavy cream, and optionally, caramel sauce for drizzling.
  2. How do I prepare the pecans for this cake?
    • For the cake, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Let them cool completely before chopping and incorporating into the cake batter. Reserve some toasted pecans for decorating the cake.
  3. What is the process for making the caramel frosting?
    • To make the caramel frosting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth and spreadable. Fold in chopped toasted pecans.
  4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can prepare Southern Pecan Caramel Cake ahead of time. The cake layers can be baked and cooled completely, then wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The caramel frosting can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to assemble, let the cake layers come to room temperature and re-whip the frosting if needed before frosting the cake.
  5. How should I store Southern Pecan Caramel Cake?
    • Store Southern Pecan Caramel Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator due to the caramel frosting. It can be stored for up to 5 days. Bring the cake to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor. If you have leftover cake, you can also freeze it. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.

Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a delicious treat that showcases the rich flavors of caramel and toasted pecans, perfect for any special occasion or celebration!

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