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
Scale
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.
