Southern Pecan Praline Cake Recipe

Welcome to my kitchen! Today, we are making a delightful Southern Pecan Praline Cake Recipe that will have your family begging for seconds. I remember my Aunt Betty used to whip this up for our Sunday dinners, and it always brought smiles to our faces. This cake is a delicious twist on the classic pecan pie, combining the rich flavors of pecans with a moist cake that is simply irresistible.

Why You’ll Love It

  • It's a perfect blend of cake and pie, bringing the best of both worlds.
  • The praline topping adds a sweet crunch that makes every bite special.
  • It's a family favorite that brings everyone together around the table.

Pure Comfort

Every slice of this cake feels like a warm hug. The combination of buttery cake and crunchy pecans is pure comfort food, making it a great choice for gatherings or just a cozy night in with loved ones.

What You Need

  • 2 all-purpose flour – cups
  • 1.5 granulated sugar – cups
  • 1 unsalted butter – cup, softened
  • 3 eggs – large
  • 1 buttermilk – cup
  • 1 vanilla extract – tbsp
  • 1 baking powder – tbsp
  • 1 baking soda – tsp
  • 1/2 salt – tsp
  • 1 chopped pecans – cup
  • 1 brown sugar – cup
  • 1/2 heavy cream – cup
  • 1/4 corn syrup – cup

Time to Cook

Prep: 20 minutes | Cook: 30 minutes | Total: 50 minutes | Difficulty: easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, it can be made a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract until combined.
  5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
  7. Fold in the chopped pecans.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
  9. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  10. While the cake is baking, prepare the praline topping by combining brown sugar, heavy cream, and corn syrup in a saucepan over medium heat.
  11. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil, then let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.
  12. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining chopped pecans.
  13. Once the cake is done, pour the praline topping over the warm cake and let it cool before serving.

Make It Perfect

  • For an extra kick, add a pinch of cinnamon to the cake batter.
  • Make sure to let the cake cool completely before serving to let the topping set.
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Mix It Up

  • Try adding chocolate chips for a chocolate pecan praline cake.
  • Substitute walnuts for pecans for a different nutty flavor.
  • Make it a Southern Pecan Praline Cheesecake by using a cheesecake base instead of cake.

Perfect Partners

  • Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious dessert.
  • Pair with a hot cup of coffee or sweet tea for a true Southern experience.
  • Enjoy with fresh fruit for a lighter option.

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FAQs

Can I use unsalted butter instead of salted?

Yes, just adjust the salt in the recipe accordingly.

How do I store leftover cake?

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

Conclusion

This Southern Pecan Praline Cake Recipe is sure to become a family favorite, just like it was for Aunt Betty. With its rich flavors and delightful texture, it is a perfect addition to any gathering. Enjoy every bite of this delicious Pecan Praline Cake and share the love with your family and friends.