Southern Pecan Caramel Cake: A Decadent Dessert

A Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a rich dessert that captures the delicious flavors of the American South. This cake has layers of soft, buttery cake with a delicious nutty flavor from toasted pecans. Each layer is covered with a delicious caramel frosting, which adds a perfect mix of sweetness and texture. The caramel, which is usually made at home, gives the cake a rich and creamy touch, making it even more delicious. Great for special events or as a comforting dessert, the Southern Pecan Caramel Cake represents Southern hospitality and cooking customs, providing a delicious experience with each mouthful.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 2 cups of white sugar
• 1 cup of unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 1 cup of whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of chopped pecans

For the Caramel Icing

• 1 cup of unsalted butter
• 1 cup of packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of whole milk
• 3 cups of powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Pans (10 minutes)

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
   

   2. Mix the Batter (15 minutes)

   1. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
   2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   3. Mix in the vanilla extract.
   4. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the creamed mixture, alternating with the milk. Start and end with the flour mixture.
   6. Fold in the chopped pecans.

   3. Bake the Cake (25-30 minutes)

   1. Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
   2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

   4. Make the Caramel Icing (20 minutes)

   1. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   2. Stir in the brown sugar and milk. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
   3. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth.

   5. Assemble the Cake (10 minutes)

   1. Once the cakes are completely cool, spread the caramel icing between the layers, on top, and around the sides of the cake.
   2. If desired, garnish with whole pecans on top.

   Nutrition Information

   Calories: 550 calories | Servings: 12 servings

   Preparation and Cooking Times

   Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes