Southern Pecan Caramel Cake: A Decadent Dessert
A Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a rich dessert that captures the delicious flavors of the American South. This cake has layers of soft, buttery cake with a delicious nutty flavor from toasted pecans. Each layer is covered with a delicious caramel frosting, which adds a perfect mix of sweetness and texture. The caramel, which is usually made at home, gives the cake a rich and creamy touch, making it even more delicious. Great for special events or as a comforting dessert, the Southern Pecan Caramel Cake represents Southern hospitality and cooking customs, providing a delicious experience with each mouthful.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 2 cups of white sugar
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup of whole milk
- 4 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of chopped pecans
For the Caramel Icing
- 1 cup of unsalted butter
- 1 cup of packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup of whole milk
- 3 cups of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare Pans (10 minutes)
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix the Batter (15 minutes)
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
3. Bake the Cake (25-30 minutes)
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
4. Make the Caramel Icing (20 minutes)
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar and milk. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.
5. Assemble the Cake (10 minutes)
- Once the cakes are completely cool, spread the caramel icing between the layers, on top, and around the sides of the cake.
- If desired, garnish with whole pecans on top.
Nutrition Information
Calories: 550 calories | Servings: 12 servings
Preparation and Cooking Times
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes