Indulge in the Richness of Southern Pecan Praline Cake
Are you craving a sweet treat that captures the essence of the American South? Look no further than this Southern Pecan Praline Cake recipe that I have lovingly perfected over years of cooking southern-style cuisine.
This cake is more than just a dessert – it’s an experience. Its aroma alone will transport you to a front porch swing in Louisiana, sipping on a glass of iced tea with family and friends. And the taste? Pure bliss. The combination of pecans, vanilla extract, evaporated milk, light brown sugar, and butter create a flavor profile that is both rich and indulgent.
My recipe uses ingredients readily available at your local grocery store, so you can enjoy the taste of the south without having to travel there. Trust me when I say that one bite of this Southern Pecan Praline Cake and you’ll be hooked for life. It’s the perfect addition to any gathering or as a sweet treat for yourself after a long day.
So tie on your apron and get ready to bake one awesome cake – Southern-style!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Picture this: a sweet treat that’s rich, moist, and packed with crunchy pecans and the indulgent flavor of pralines. If you crave that perfect combination of sweet and nutty, then you’ve come to the right place! As a southern-style chef, I present to you my Southern Pecan Praline Cake recipe – a dessert lovers’ dream come true.
But why should you love this recipe? First off, it is incredibly easy to make. You don’t need any fancy techniques or complicated equipment. All you need are a few staple ingredients like flour, sugar, eggs, and butter – plus the star of the show, pecans! From there, the magic happens as you mix everything together and watch as your kitchen fills with the most heavenly aroma.
Secondly, our cake is super moist thanks to the addition of evaporated milk and canola oil. And let’s not forget about our praline topping made with condensed milk and more buttery goodness. This creates a layer of caramelized sugary goodness that complements the nutty crunch of the pecans perfectly.
But perhaps the best reason to love this recipe is that it is incredibly versatile. You can serve it just as it is for an indulgent dessert or dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for some added decadence. You can even experiment with different variations like turning it into cupcakes or transforming it into a stunning bundt cake.
In short, this Southern Pecan Praline Cake recipe is a perfect dessert for any occasion or simply something to satisfy your sweet tooth. It’s an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds – that’s a promise!
Ingredient List
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoons of baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 cup of packed light brown sugar
Wet Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup of canola oil
- 1/2 cup and 2 tablespoons of evaporated milk
- 1/4 cup of butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract
Pecan Praline Topping:
- 1/2 cup of (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup of packed light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup of milk
- Pinch of salt
- 3 cups of powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups of chopped pecans
Gather all these essential ingredients for a Southern Pecan Praline Cake, which is sure to be a sweet treat for every occasion.
The Recipe How-To
Now that we’ve gone through the ingredient list, it’s time to start baking! Trust me, this is a recipe you won’t want to miss. Follow these simple steps to make your very own Southern Pecan Praline Cake.
Step 1: Mixing the Batter
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C).
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 box of yellow cake mix, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, and ½ teaspoon of salt
Add in 4 large eggs and mix them with a hand mixer until they are well-combined.
Next, add in 1 cup of milk, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and mix with hand mixer.
Incorporate 1 cup of melted unsalted butter and beat until the batter is smooth and even.
Step 2: Folding in the Pecan Praline
Now it’s time to incorporate the pecan praline into your cake batter. Take about 1 and ½ cups of chopped pecans and mix them with a spoonful of all-purpose flour in a separate bowl, then stir the mixture into the cake batter.
Step 3: Filling Your Cake Pan
Using a greased Bundt cake pan, pour your cake batter evenly into the pan.
Pop it into your preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, checking periodically to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Keep an eye out for a golden surface and toothpick cleanliness during this time!
Step 4: Preparing Your Praline Topping
While waiting for your pecan praline cake to bake inside the oven, it’s time to make the icing.
Melt 2 cups of granulated sugar in a non-stick pot over medium heat. Once melted, gradually stir in 1 can of evaporated milk, and keep stirring until the mixture boils.
Add in 2 cups of brown sugar, followed by 1 cup of unsalted butter.
Let that boil on medium heat for about 3 to 5 minutes, making sure to stir constantly.
Then, turn down the heat to low and let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes while occasionally stirring.
Step 5: Adding the Praline Icing
After putting the hot cake out of the oven, cool it down for about 10 minutes before poking multiple holes on all sides with a chopstick. This technique will allow even distributions of the praline icing.
Pour the icing onto the hot cake into those poked holes and spread it evenly across the top using a spatula.
And voila – your Southern Pecan Praline Cake is complete! Not only is this super moist and sweet, but it’s an excellent way to impress any guest or indulge in with family during dessert time!
Substitutions and Variations
When baking a Southern Pecan Praline Cake, there are a few substitutions and variations you can make to suit your preferences or adjust for ingredients on hand.
Firstly, if you don’t have evaporated milk on hand, you can substitute it with plain milk, almond milk, or coconut milk. However, the evaporated milk in this recipe adds richness to the cake that can’t quite be matched with regular milk.
If you’re looking for a lighter version of this cake, you can try reducing the amount of sugar by half and substituting unsweetened applesauce for half of the butter or oil. This will reduce the overall calorie count while still maintaining the moist texture of the cake.
For a gluten-free option, try substituting all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour, which will give the cake a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture. However, keep in mind that substituting flour may also require adjusting the baking time and leavening agents.
You can also switch up the frosting on this cake by trying a cream cheese frosting instead of the traditional pecan praline frosting. Or add some flair with a praline topping made by melting together condensed milk, brown sugar, and butter until it is thick and sticky.
To add an extra layer of flavor to this cake recipe, try swapping out walnuts for pecans or adding shredded coconut to the batter. The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing this sweet treat to suit your unique taste preferences.
Keep in mind that while substitutions and variations are exciting, they can also affect the overall outcome of the cake. Be sure to experiment cautiously and remember to follow the recipe as closely as possible for best results!
Serving and Pairing
Southern pecan praline cake is a grand and sweet treat that’s perfect for special occasions – or just because you feel like indulging in something irresistibly delicious! It’s a moist and fluffy dessert that offers a rich buttery flavor and a satisfying crunchiness of chopped pecans. There are different ways you can serve this magnificent cake, each one elevating its taste and making its flavors pop.
One way to serve this cake is to drizzle it with caramel sauce, allowing the sweetness to seep through every slice. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra creamy touch. For those who love nutty flavors, try adding chopped walnuts alongside the pecans, creating an even richer and deeper flavor profile.
Pairing-wise, southern pecan praline cake goes excellently with coffee or tea. The sweetness of the cake is perfectly balanced with the boldness of a good cup of coffee or tea, making for one satisfying experience that’ll leave your taste buds pleased for hours.
If you’re looking to experiment with different pairings, try serving it with vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt, creating a marriage between warm and cold temperatures that works wonderfully together. Also, consider topping your slice with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a light complement to the naturally rich flavors of the cake.
In conclusion, serving southern pecan praline cake is all about elevating its sweet and nutty tastes while complimenting its textures. Whether it’s with caramel sauce, whipped cream, nuts, berries, ice cream or coffee – this buttery delight will bring everyone together around the table to enjoy one awesome cake!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once this Southern Pecan Praline Cake is finished baking, you can store it for later consumption or make ahead for special occasions. The cake can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container or covered in aluminum foil for 2 to 3 days. After that, you can move it to the refrigerator where it will be good for up to a week.
When reheating the cake, you can do so using several methods like the microwave, oven or stovetop. If you opt for the microwave approach, slice a piece and wrap it with a damp paper towel before microwaving it for 20 seconds. Then, let it rest for about 10 seconds before checking if it needs more heating.
Another alternative is to reheat slices of the cake in the oven. Preheat your oven to 325°F and lay your slices on an ovenproof dish before wrapping them loosely with aluminum foil. Let them heat up for about 8 to 10 minutes before removing them from the oven.
Lastly, you can even use your stovetop to warm up slices of pecan praline cake. Use a nonstick skillet over medium heat and heat each side of the cake slice for about one minute on each side until they are heated through.
In conclusion, making ahead and storing this Southern Pecan Praline Cake is easy as pie, no pun intended! And when reheating leftovers, remember that microwaving, baking or warming on a stovetop are all excellent methods that guarantee a fresh taste experience.
Tips for Perfect Results
Let me give you some tips that I learned from experience on how to get the perfect Southern Pecan Praline Cake. This sweet treat is not just any cake, it is a heavenly cake that needs some attention to detail.
When mixing the ingredients of the cake, be sure to mix them very well. This will help ensure that you get a smooth and even batter. The last thing you want is dry clumps in your batter. For the best results, sift your flour before measuring it out to ensure that there are no lumps.
When making the praline topping, you definitely want to make sure you do not overcook it. Otherwise, it will turn into hard candy instead of a nice ooey-gooey topping. Keep an eye on it as it cooks and stir it frequently.
For the frosting, make sure that all of your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing them together. This will help ensure that everything mixes together smoothly and gives you a creamy frosting.
When frosting your cake, make sure that each layer is straight and even. Using an offset spatula can help with this process. And be generous with your frosting! You want every bite to be filled with flavor.
It is also important to let your cake cool completely before cutting into it. This will help prevent the cake from falling apart or becoming too crumbly. But don’t let it cool for too long either; this cake is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.
Lastly, don’t forget to garnish your cake with some chopped pecans or pralines before serving. It adds an extra layer of texture and deliciousness.
By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have one awesome Southern Pecan Praline Cake that everyone will love!
FAQ
Before we wrap up this article, let’s address some frequently asked questions (FAQ) that may arise while making this southern pecan praline cake recipe. Whether you’ve never baked a cake before or you’re an experienced baker, it’s always helpful to clarify any doubts you may have. So, let’s dive into the most common inquiries and clear them up for you!
What’s the difference between pecan praline and butter pecan?
When it comes to desserts, the butter pecan flavor is a popular choice. This delicious combination incorporates pecans, butter, and hints of pure vanilla, making your tastebuds dance with sweetness. An alternative treat option is the pecan pralines, which are notably sweeter and sugar-forward, unlike the butter pecan flavor.
What is praline cake made of?
This recipe will guide you through the process of making pralines, a sweet treat that is commonly used to adorn desserts such as ice cream, cakes, and pastries. Typically made with a mixture of sugar, nuts, and either butter or cream, pralines are a popular confectionery delight.
What is a sock it to me cake?
Have you heard of the classic Sock it to Me Cake? This delicious cake is made using a boxed cake mix, and is jazzed up with some sour cream, eggs, vanilla and extra sugar! The cake is baked in a bundt pan, with a swirl of sweet cinnamon pecans in the center, and is topped with a simple powdered sugar glaze. The result is a mouth-watering dessert that can be enjoyed anytime.
Is there a butter pecan cake mix?
Looking for a simple and hassle-free way to make a delicious butter pecan cake? Betty Crocker’s super moist cake mix has got you covered! Made with all-natural ingredients and no preservatives or artificial flavors, this cake mix is the perfect solution for those who want to create a sweet treat without the usual mess and effort. Just follow the quick and easy instructions, add a few simple ingredients, and voila! A scrumptious cake that you can enjoy any time of day.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Southern Pecan Praline Cake recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a sweet treat with a touch of southern charm. With its soft and moist texture, buttery and nutty flavors, and irresistible praline topping, this cake is sure to please any palate.
Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a sweet craving, this recipe will not disappoint. So why not give it a try today and experience the taste of southern hospitality in your own home?
Remember to follow the helpful tips and recommendations I’ve shared with you, and feel free to experiment with different variations and substitutions to make it your own. With all the possible ways to customize this cake, it’s sure to become one of your go-to dessert recipes!
Thank you for reading this article, and I hope you enjoy making this delicious Southern Pecan Praline Cake as much as I have. Happy baking!
Southern Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the cake
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 4 large eggs
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For praline icing
- 3/4 cup butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed
- 4 large egg yolks
- 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 cups pecans, chopped
Instructions
- Grease and flour three nine-inch round cake pans and preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Cream the butter with both granulated sugar and light brown sugar until very light and fluffy, then add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift the flour with the baking powder, baking soda and salt and add to the batter alternately with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Divide batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake in the center of the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in the center of the layers comes out clean. Cool layers in their pans over a rack for ten minutes, then loosen and turn out layers directly onto racks for cooling. Cool layers thoroughly before icing.
- For the icing, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Remove from heat, then stir in granulated sugar and light brown sugar. (Sugars will not dissolve).
- In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the evaporated milk until smooth, then whisk this mixture into the saucepan with the sugar mixture. Return saucepan to a medium heat setting and cook, whisking constantly, until mixture is thick, shiny and caramel-like, about 15 to 20 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pecans.
- Cool icing to a good spreading consistency (about 30 minutes), then spread evenly between cooled cake layers and over the top and sides of the cake.