This Southern Pecan Praline Cake is a delicious combination of rich flavors and crunchy textures. It’s a moist, buttery cake loaded with pecans, topped with a luxurious butter sauce that makes it irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, celebrating a special occasion, or just indulging in a decadent dessert, this praline cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The blend of sweet cake, nutty pecans, and creamy butter sauce creates a classic Southern dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
1 box butter pecan cake mix
1 (16 oz) tub coconut pecan frosting
4 large eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Butter Sauce:
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
Prepare the Cake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir until well-blended.
Fold in the chopped pecans for that perfect nutty crunch.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool slightly while you prepare the butter sauce.
Make the Butter Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the sugar and evaporated milk, cooking for about 5 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Serve:
Slice the warm cake and pour the butter sauce generously over each slice. Serve warm for the best flavor experience.
Serving Tips:
Serve Warm for Best Flavor: This cake is best enjoyed warm, with the butter sauce drizzled generously over each slice. The warmth helps the sauce soak into the cake, enhancing its richness.
Garnish Ideas: Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to each slice for an extra layer of indulgence. A sprinkle of toasted pecans on top can also add a nice crunch and flavor boost.
Perfect for Special Occasions: This cake makes a great dessert for holidays, family gatherings, or potlucks. Its rich flavor and decadent butter sauce make it a standout treat.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Make sure to store it without the butter sauce poured over, as the cake can get soggy.
Refrigeration (for longer storage): You can store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the butter sauce in a separate container and reheat before serving.
Freezing the Cake: To freeze, wrap individual slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place them in an airtight freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating the Butter Sauce: Reheat the butter sauce in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in 10-15 second intervals, stirring frequently until smooth. Avoid overheating, as it may cause the sauce to separate.
Related Recipes:
FAQs:
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the butter pecan cake mix with other flavors, such as vanilla or yellow cake mix. However, keep in mind that this may alter the flavor profile slightly. If you choose a different mix, consider adding chopped pecans or even a hint of coconut extract to mimic the original taste.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it at room temperature. Just make sure to keep it covered to prevent it from drying out. Prepare the butter sauce fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best to keep the butter sauce separate to prevent the cake from becoming soggy. If freezing, wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store them in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Can I make this cake without the butter sauce?
Yes, the Southern Pecan Praline Cake can be enjoyed on its own without the butter sauce. However, the sauce adds a rich, indulgent flavor that complements the cake beautifully. If you prefer a lighter option, consider serving the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of honey instead.
Conclusion:
This Southern Pecan Praline Cake with Butter Sauce is sure to become a favorite in your dessert collection. Its perfect blend of sweet and nutty flavors, combined with a smooth butter sauce, will leave everyone asking for seconds!
📖 Recipe:
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Southern Pecan Praline Cake with Butter Sauce
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Southern Pecan Praline Cake with Butter Sauce. Moist and buttery, this delightful dessert is loaded with crunchy pecans and topped with a decadent butter sauce that brings a sweet and nutty flavor to every bite. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply as a treat for dessert lovers, this cake is a true Southern classic that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box butter pecan cake mix
1 (16 oz) tub coconut pecan frosting
4 large eggs
3/4 cup vegetable oil
1 cup water
1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Butter Sauce:
1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup evaporated milk
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Stir until well combined.
- Fold in the chopped pecans.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool slightly.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the butter sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the sugar and evaporated milk. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the sugar is fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Slice the warm cake and pour the butter sauce generously over each slice. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The butter sauce can be stored separately in the refrigerator and reheated before serving.
For an extra touch, serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: Approx. 450 kcal per serving
