Description
Indulge in the decadent flavors of The Southern Pecan Caramel Cake – a moist, buttery cake filled with toasted pecans and topped with a creamy, rich caramel frosting. Perfect for special occasions or when you’re craving a true Southern classic, this cake delivers irresistible texture and flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2½ cups all-purpose flour
2½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup whole milk
1½ cups chopped pecans, toasted
For the Caramel Frosting:
1 cup unsalted butter
2 cups packed light brown sugar
½ cup evaporated milk
4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup toasted pecans, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
- Gradually mix in the flour mixture, alternating with the milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
- Fold in the toasted pecans.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
For the Caramel Frosting:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and evaporated milk, stirring constantly.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and cool slightly. Gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth. Stir in vanilla extract.
Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread frosting over the top.
- Add the second layer, repeat frosting, and top with the third layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Garnish with chopped, toasted pecans for an added crunch.
Notes
Toasting Pecans: Toasting the pecans intensifies their flavor and adds a delicious crunch. Simply toast them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Make Ahead: You can bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them in an airtight container. Frost just before serving for the freshest taste.
Serving Tip: Let the cake sit for 30 minutes before slicing to allow the frosting to set.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Cake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: Approximately 580 kcal per serving