Indulge in the rich flavors of the South with this delightful Southern Pecan Caramel Cake. With layers of moist vanilla cake, buttery caramel frosting, and crunchy pecans, this cake is perfect for celebrations or as a sweet treat to enjoy any day.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- For Garnish:
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans. - Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. - Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. - Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. - Combine Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. - Bake the Cakes:
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely. - Prepare the Caramel Frosting:
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil. Allow it to boil for 1-2 minutes without stirring, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Let it cool for a few minutes. - Frost the Cake:
Gradually mix in the powdered sugar until smooth and desired consistency is reached. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more cream to loosen it. - Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of caramel frosting on top, then sprinkle with chopped pecans. Repeat with the second layer. Top with the final layer and frost the top and sides of the cake. - Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the top with additional toasted pecans. Slice and enjoy your Southern Pecan Caramel Cake!