Pecan Praline Cake Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Pan

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure easy removal of the cake.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine butter pecan cake mix, milk, vegetable oil, and eggs. Use a hand mixer on medium speed or a whisk to beat until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, about 2 minutes.
3. Fold in the chopped pecans until they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. This adds a delightful crunch in every bite.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
5. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake springs back when lightly touched.
6. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 4: Make the Praline Frosting

7. While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream.
8. Stir continuously until the butter melts and the sugar is fully dissolved. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
9. Remove the pan from heat and let the mixture cool for a few minutes. Then, whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
10. Fold in the additional chopped pecans for texture.

Step 5: Frost the Cake

11. Once the cake is completely cooled, pour the praline frosting over the top, spreading it evenly. The frosting will slowly set, forming a rich, caramel-like layer over the cake.
12. For an elegant touch, garnish with a few extra pecans on top.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

13. Allow the frosting to set for about 15 minutes before slicing. Serve each slice with a drizzle of extra praline sauce if desired.

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Tips for the Best Pecan Praline Cake

• Make It Extra Moist: Substitute milk with buttermilk for an even more tender and rich cake.
• Enhance the Pecan Flavor: Toast the pecans before folding them into the batter to intensify their flavor.
• Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, as the praline frosting soaks into the cake, making it richer. Simply store it covered at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
• Store Leftovers: Keep any leftover cake covered in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Refrigerate for longer storage.

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Nutritional Benefits of Pecans

This pecan praline cake is an indulgent treat, but it also offers some surprising benefits thanks to the pecans:

• Pecans: A good source of healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants, pecans add crunch and a dose of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Brown Sugar: Provides a molasses-like richness, which enhances the caramel flavor of the frosting.
• Butter and Cream: Contribute to the creamy, luscious texture of the praline frosting, while adding satiety.

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A Slice of Southern Comfort

Each bite of this pecan praline cake is an experience of rich flavors and textures, with tender cake and a caramel-like frosting topped with crunchy pecans. This recipe is perfect for any celebration, holiday, or just because! Indulge in the warm, nutty, and buttery notes of this Southern-inspired cake, and it just might become a new favorite.