Southern Pecan Praline Cake: An Irresistible Southern Delight with Nutty Caramel Goodness 🍰🌰🍯
1. Introduction
Indulge in the rich, buttery flavors of a Pecan Praline Cake, a quintessential Southern recipe that combines the crunchy goodness of pecans with a luscious caramel praline topping. Whether you’re preparing a special Thanksgiving dessert or selecting a decadent treat for a family gathering, this Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake promises to impress. Its moist layers infused with praline butter and topped with a crisp pecan glaze make it the perfect Southern Butter Pecan Praline Cake or even a Snickers Pecan Praline Cake. Dive into this step-by-step guide to learn how to make a luscious Praline Cake that’s rich in Southern tradition and flavor.
2. Ingredients for the Classic Pecan Praline Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- For the praline topping:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
3. How to Make a Delicious Pecan Praline Cake
Preparation of the Cake Batter
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the vanilla extract. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking powder. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Gently fold in the chopped pecans for that classic crunch and flavor.
Making the Praline Topping
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. Carefully add the evaporated milk and vanilla extract, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and fold in the chopped pecans. This praline topping will provide that signature caramelized crunch that elevates the cake to irresistible heights.
Baking and Assembling
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once baked, pour the warm praline topping over the hot cake, allowing it to soak in and create a sticky, nutty layer. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can drizzle some caramel syrup or melted chocolate over the top.
4. Tips for the Perfect Southern Pecan Praline Cake
- Use fresh, high-quality pecans for a richer flavor.
- Ensure the praline sauce is simmered until thickened for a better texture.
- Serve the cake slightly warm for the perfect melding of flavors.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain Moisture and freshness.
5. Storage and Serving Suggestions
This praline cake is best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking. Keep it covered at room temperature for soft, moist layers or refrigerate for a firmer texture. To serve, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an elevated dessert experience. For a more festive presentation, you might garnish with additional chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce. This cake also makes an excellent addition to any Southern desserts repertoire.
6. Perfect Pairings and Serving Ideas
- Classic Southern iced sweet tea or coffee
- Freshly brewed hot chocolate during holiday seasons
- Complement with butter pecan ice cream or vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast
- Serve slices alongside fresh fruit or berries to balance flavors
7. Variations to Try with Your Pecan Praline Cake
- Turn it into a strawberry cheesecake by adding layers of cream cheese frosting
- Make a gluten-free version by substituting with almond flour
- Include a touch of bourbon in the praline syrup for a sophisticated flavor
8. Frequently Asked Questions About Pecan Praline Cake
What is a Pecan Praline Cake?
A Pecan Praline Cake is a moist, layered cake featuring a rich pecan flavor, topped with caramelized praline sauce and crunchy pecan pieces. It’s a classic Southern dessert perfect for holiday gatherings or comfort food cravings.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, preparing the cake a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate if you’re in a warm climate. Reheat slightly before serving for a warm, gooey experience.
Does this Pecan Praline Cake contain nuts?
Absolutely, pecans are a key ingredient that provides the characteristic crunch and flavor. If you have nut allergies, consider substituting pecans with toasted coconut or other crunchy toppings.
Where can I find more Southern dessert recipes?
Explore more traditional Southern recipes desserts and hearty classics on our website for an authentic taste of the South.
9. Conclusion
Incorporating the rich nutty flavor of pecans with a luscious praline glaze creates a Pecan Praline Cake that embodies Southern hospitality and decadence. Its moist layers and crunchy topping make it the ultimate choice for holiday desserts, especially during Thanksgiving. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or looking to impress your guests, this cake is sure to become a treasured dessert. Embrace the sweet, buttery goodness of a Southern Pecan Praline Cake today and enjoy a slice of Southern tradition! For more delicious cakes and desserts, check out how to make cruffins or explore other southern recipes that celebrate indulgence and comfort.
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Southern Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Southern Pecan Praline Cake is a decadent southern dessert featuring moist cake layers topped with a rich praline glaze and crunchy pecans. Perfect for holiday gatherings, family celebrations, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth with nutty caramel goodness, this cake embodies Southern hospitality and flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- For the praline topping:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add to wet mixture, alternating with milk, beginning and ending with dry ingredients.
- Fold in chopped pecans.
- Pour batter into prepared dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- While baking, make praline topping by melting butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth and bubbly.
- Add evaporated milk and vanilla, cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and fold in chopped pecans.
- Pour warm praline topping over the hot baked cake. Let soak in, then serve warm or at room temperature. Optional: drizzle caramel or melted chocolate for extra richness.
Notes
- Use fresh, high-quality pecans for richer flavor.
- Ensure praline sauce is well thickened for ideal texture.
- Serve slightly warm for best flavor melding.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 1/12 of cake)
- Calories: 430 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 32 g
- Sodium: 150 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
