If you’re craving a dessert that embodies pure Southern charm with every bite, the Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe is here to steal the show. Imagine layers of tender, buttery cake studded with toasted pecans, lavishly slathered in a rich, velvety caramel frosting that’s both indulgent and comforting. This cake is exactly what you need when you want to impress family or friends with a classic dessert that tastes like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe, the ingredients are simple yet carefully chosen to build that perfect flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role, making the cake moist, flavorful, and beautifully balanced between sweet and nutty.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure and softness to the cake layers.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with buttermilk to lighten the texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: Provides richness and tenderness to the crumb.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sweetens and contributes to a golden crust on the cake.
- 4 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add moisture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 1 cup whole buttermilk: Makes the cake wonderfully moist with a slight tang.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: Toasted for extra crunch and that signature Southern nutty taste.
- For the Caramel Frosting: A blend of butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, salt, powdered sugar, and vanilla that creates a luscious creamy topping.
- Optional garnish 1/2 cup chopped or halved pecans: Adds a beautiful texture and decorative nutty finish.
How to Make Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Mix the Dry Ingredients
Start by whisking together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed for a perfectly risen cake. Taking this extra step will give you light, tender layers.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, making the cake airy and soft. Be patient and beat well—it’s the key to an amazing texture!
Step 3: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add the eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition to keep the mixture smooth and well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract for that classic warmth and sweetness.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients alternately with the whole buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. This method prevents overmixing while keeping the batter silky. Now fold in the chopped pecans, toasted if you like an extra nutty crunch.
Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers
Divide the batter evenly into three greased and floured 8-inch round pans. Smooth the tops for even baking. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the layers cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them onto wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Make the Caramel Frosting
For the luscious caramel frosting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in packed light brown sugar and cook until bubbling and fragrant for 2 to 3 minutes. Add heavy cream and salt, bring to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Gradually beat in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until frosting is smooth and spreadable. This frosting is the star that elevates this cake beyond ordinary.
Step 7: Assemble and Frost the Cake
With layers cool, spread the caramel frosting generously between each layer and all around the top and sides for that beautiful, indulgent look. Garnish the top with chopped pecans if desired, then chill the cake for at least 30 minutes to let that frosting set just right before slicing.
How to Serve Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe
Garnishes
The Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe shines when topped with extra chopped or halved toasted pecans. These add a delightful crunch and nutty aroma that complements every bite beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the cake’s richness. A strong cup of coffee or a glass of sweet iced tea makes a perfect Southern-inspired drink to accompany it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve the cake on a rustic wooden board dusted lightly with powdered sugar and scatter some whole pecans around. Adding edible flowers or a drizzle of caramel sauce can create a stunning visual and flavor experience that will have everyone asking for your Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover cake tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 4 days while maintaining moisture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake layers before frosting by wrapping each layer individually in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it slightly warm, let a slice come to room temperature or gently warm it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften the frosting without melting it too much.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of nut?
Absolutely! While pecans give this cake its authentic Southern flair, toasted walnuts or almonds can also be used for a delicious twist.
Is it necessary to toast the pecans?
Toasting pecans enhances their flavor and crunch, but if you’re short on time, using raw pecans is still tasty—just slightly less aromatic.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but results may vary slightly in texture. Make sure the blend contains xanthan gum for best structure.
How long does the caramel frosting take to set?
The frosting usually sets in about 30 minutes when chilled, becoming spreadable but firm enough to slice cleanly without sticking.
Can this cake be made ahead for a party?
Definitely! The Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors mingle. Bake and frost it a day before your event and keep refrigerated until serving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and joyful about making the Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe, whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple weekend treat. The harmonious blend of toasted pecans, buttery layers, and rich caramel frosting makes this cake a beloved classic that never disappoints. I hope you dive into this recipe and create beautiful memories with every delicious slice!
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Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (plus cooling and chilling time)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a rich and decadent layered dessert featuring moist butter cake studded with toasted pecans and topped with a luscious caramel frosting. Perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions, the cake combines a tender crumb with a buttery, caramel-infused frosting and a crunchy pecan garnish for a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
Ingredients
Cake
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted if desired)
Caramel Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 2 cups packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Garnish
- 1/2 cup chopped or halved pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake Pans: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to ensure an even distribution.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which adds air for a tender cake.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then mix in the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Alternately add the dry flour mixture and the buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. This helps maintain the batter’s consistency.
- Add Pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans, which add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the cake.
- Fill Pans and Bake: Evenly divide the batter among the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Cakes: Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before frosting.
- Make Caramel Frosting: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in the light brown sugar. Cook, stirring constantly, for 2–3 minutes to dissolve the sugar. Add the heavy cream and salt, bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then remove from heat and cool for 10 minutes.
- Finish Frosting: Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
- Assemble the Cake: Once the cakes are completely cool, spread the caramel frosting between the layers, then cover the top and sides with the remaining frosting.
- Garnish and Chill: Decorate with extra chopped or halved pecans if desired. Chill the cake for about 30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing and serving.
Notes
- To toast pecans, spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until fragrant. This enhances their flavor and crunch.
- The caramel frosting sets quickly, so spread it efficiently to get a smooth finish.
- This cake is rich and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for advance preparation.
