If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the South, this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. With each bite, you’ll experience moist butter pecan cake mingled with the creamy sweetness of coconut pecan frosting, perfectly topped with a rich, buttery praline sauce and crunchy pecans. It’s the kind of cake that steals the show at any gathering and leaves everyone asking for seconds, combining nostalgic flavors with an irresistibly tender crumb.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe right is all about using simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients that create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role in bringing that classic Southern charm to your dessert plate.
- Butter pecan cake mix (15.25 oz): This forms the moist and buttery base that’s already bursting with nutty goodness.
- Water (1 cup): Helps hydrate the cake mix and ensures a perfect crumb.
- Vegetable oil (½ cup): Adds moisture and tenderness without overwhelming the flavors.
- Large eggs (3): Provide structure and richness, holding the cake together beautifully.
- Coconut pecan frosting (1 can, 16 oz): Folded into the batter, this frosting brings extra creaminess and that signature coconut nuttiness.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup + extra for garnish): Infuse crunch and deepen the pecan flavor throughout the cake and topping.
- Unsalted butter (½ cup): The base for the praline sauce, delivering a luscious, golden finish.
- Brown sugar, packed (1 cup): Sweetens the praline topping with a deep caramel note.
- Heavy cream (¼ cup): Adds richness and smoothness to the praline sauce’s silky texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A warm aromatic touch that rounds out all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat
Before you dive into mixing, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. This crucial step prevents sticking and helps the cake bake evenly, giving you those clean, beautiful slices later.
Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Start mixing on low speed for 30 seconds to combine ingredients without splashing, then crank it up to medium for about 2 minutes until the batter turns smooth and silky. This helps incorporate air, making the cake lighter.
Step 3: Incorporate Coconut Pecan Frosting and Pecans
Next, gently fold the whole can of coconut pecan frosting into the batter along with 1 cup of chopped pecans. This step transforms the texture, adding chewy sweetness from the frosting bits and delightful crunch from the nuts — magic happening right before your eyes!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour this luscious batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading evenly to ensure uniform baking. Pop it in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, you know it’s time to take it out.
Step 5: Make the Praline Topping
While the cake is baking, place the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture gently boils. Immediately remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This luscious praline sauce will be the perfect finishing touch.
Step 6: Apply the Praline Sauce and Garnish
Once the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, pour the praline sauce evenly over the top. Spread it out carefully to coat every inch. For an extra pop of texture and that irresistible nutty finish, sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the top. Let the cake set before slicing — patience pays off here!
How to Serve Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few extra chopped pecans on top not only makes the cake look inviting but also enhances each bite with a fresh crunch. For an elegant touch, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce to amplify the indulgence.
Side Dishes
This cake shines on its own but you can pair it with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to introduce a cool, creamy balance. Fresh berries can add a tart contrast that complements the sweet praline flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve slices on vintage dessert plates for a charming Southern vibe or cut the cake into bite-sized pieces and place them on a fancy platter for an inviting potluck presentation. For parties, you might even serve it in mini ramekins topped individually with praline sauce and nuts — pure crowd-pleasing magic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can keep leftover Pecan Praline Cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, allowing those luscious flavors to meld even more. For longer freshness, wrap the cake tightly and refrigerate, which helps maintain moisture and slows down any potential drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge to savor later without losing that perfect texture.
Reheating
To warm a slice of this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe, pop it in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or gently heat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. Reheating really brings out the buttery praline flavors and softens the cake to fresh-baked bliss.
FAQs
Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a box mix?
Absolutely! While the box mix keeps this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe quick and foolproof, a scratch butter pecan batter will give you even more control over flavor and texture. Just be sure to keep the balance of nuts and spices to maintain the signature taste.
Is there a way to make this cake nut-free?
This recipe relies heavily on pecans, which are key to the flavor and texture. If you have nut allergies, you might experiment with toasted oats or sunflower seeds, but the classic praline taste would be different. Proceed with caution if serving guests with allergies.
Can I use a different type of frosting?
The coconut pecan frosting in this recipe adds unique depth, but if you can’t find it, a buttercream or cream cheese frosting mixed gently into the batter might work. Just be aware it will shift the final flavor profile.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Use a toothpick inserted in the center: it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid opening the oven too much early on to prevent sinking.
What is the best way to slice and serve this cake?
Let the cake set completely so the praline topping adheres well. Use a sharp knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry between cuts to get neat slices that hold their shape.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and joyful about making this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe at home. Whether it’s for a special occasion, holiday table, or just a cozy weekend treat, the harmonious blend of butter pecan cake and sticky praline topping never fails to impress. I promise once you give this cake a try, it will quickly become one of your favorites to bake and share. So grab your mixing bowl and pecans, and let the magic begin!
Print
Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Pecan Praline Cake is a rich and moist Southern-style dessert combining the buttery goodness of pecan cake with a luscious coconut pecan frosting folded into the batter. Topped with a decadent homemade praline sauce made from butter, brown sugar, and cream, this easy-to-make cake is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 (16 oz) can coconut pecan frosting (for mixing into the batter)
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Praline Topping
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: extra chopped pecans for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cake release.
- Mix cake batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix on low speed for 30 seconds to combine ingredients, then beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until the batter is smooth.
- Add frosting and pecans: Gently fold the entire can of coconut pecan frosting and 1 cup of chopped pecans into the batter, ensuring an even distribution without deflating the mixture.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Prepare praline sauce: While the cake bakes, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the packed brown sugar and heavy cream, cooking and stirring constantly until the mixture reaches a gentle boil. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Top and garnish cake: Once the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, pour the warm praline sauce evenly over the cake. Spread the sauce with a spatula if needed and garnish with additional chopped pecans if desired.
- Set and serve: Allow the cake to set so the praline topping firms up before slicing into 12 servings and enjoying.
Notes
- This cake is especially rich and moist, making it perfect for holiday celebrations or potlucks.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- For longer storage, refrigerate the cake tightly covered.
- Use high-quality pecans for the best flavor and texture.
- Letting the cake cool slightly before adding the praline sauce helps prevent the topping from soaking in too much.
