Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Step-by-Step Instructions:
Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with a little bit of milk or water (about ½ cup at a time) until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Caramel Frosting: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and bring to a simmer. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes, then add the heavy cream. Stir constantly and let it cook for another 2 minutes until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Allow the caramel sauce to cool for about 10 minutes.
Frost the Cake: Once the caramel sauce has cooled slightly, slowly add the powdered sugar, stirring until smooth and thickened. If the frosting is too thick, you can add a little extra cream to loosen it up.
Assemble the Cake: Place one of the cooled cake layers onto a cake stand or plate. Spread a layer of caramel frosting over the top, then sprinkle with chopped toasted pecans. Top with the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining caramel frosting.
Decorate: Sprinkle the top of the cake with extra toasted pecans for garnish.
Enjoy: Serve the cake and enjoy this indulgent Southern treat!
Pro Tips for Perfect Southern Pecan Caramel Cake:
- Toasting the Pecans: Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. This brings out their flavor and adds a delicious crunch to the cake.
- Make It Extra Rich: For a truly indulgent cake, you can add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce on each slice before serving.
- Prevent Dry Cake: Be careful not to overmix the batter. Mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
Why You’ll Love Southern Pecan Caramel Cake:
- Buttery and Moist: The cake itself is perfectly moist, with a buttery flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweet caramel and crunchy pecans.
- Rich Caramel Frosting: The frosting has a deep caramel flavor with just the right balance of sweetness and creaminess.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, birthday, or a simple get-together, this cake is sure to impress guests with its Southern charm and decadent flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 72g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
FAQ About Southern Pecan Caramel Cake:
Can I make the cake in advance?
Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day ahead. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature until you’re ready to assemble the cake.
Can I use a different nut instead of pecans?
Certainly! You can swap the pecans for walnuts or even almonds if preferred.
What if I don’t have heavy cream for the frosting?
If you don’t have heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or whole milk as a substitute, though it might result in a slightly less rich frosting.
Common Problems and Fixes:
The Frosting is Too Runny?
If your caramel frosting is too runny, it might not have cooled enough before you added the powdered sugar. Let it cool for a little longer and then beat it again to thicken it.
The Cake is Too Dry?
Make sure not to overbake the cake. Check it 5 minutes before the recommended baking time to avoid overcooking, as this can lead to a dry texture.
Flavor Variations You Can Try:
- Chocolate Pecan Caramel Cake: Add cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolate twist.
- Maple Pecan Cake: Swap the brown sugar for maple syrup for a deep maple flavor in both the cake and frosting.
- Coconut Pecan Caramel Cake: Add shredded coconut to the frosting or sprinkle it on top for added texture and flavor.
Why Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion:
This cake is a Southern classic that is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or even just a special treat for your family. With its layers of rich caramel, soft cake, and toasted pecans, it’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that will impress anyone lucky enough to try it!
Success with Southern Pecan Caramel Cake:
This Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a dessert you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation. With its rich flavor and beautiful presentation, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves indulgent, homemade cakes. You’ll be making this one again and again!
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