ADVERTISEMENT
**Instructions:**
#### Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cakes once baked.
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. **Cream the Butter and Sugar**: In a separate bowl, beat together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed.
4. **Add the Eggs and Vanilla**: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Add the vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.
5. **Alternate Adding Wet and Dry Ingredients**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk (or milk). Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
6. **Fold in Pecans**: Gently fold in the toasted pecans into the batter. These add a wonderful crunch and flavor to the cake.
7. **Bake the Cake**: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool the Cake**: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
#### Step 2: Make the Caramel Frosting
1. **Prepare the Caramel Sauce**: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. **Simmer the Mixture**: Let the mixture boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Then, slowly pour in the heavy cream and continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
3. **Cool the Caramel**: Allow the caramel sauce to cool for a few minutes. It should thicken as it cools, but it should still be pourable.
4. **Add Pecans**: Once the caramel sauce has cooled slightly, stir in 1 ½ cups of chopped toasted pecans.
#### Step 3: Assemble the Cake
1. **Layer the Cakes**: Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer of cake on a serving platter or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of the caramel frosting on top of the first cake layer.
2. **Add the Second Layer**: Place the second cake layer on top, then generously spread more caramel frosting over the top and sides of the cake.
3. **Garnish**: Sprinkle the top with additional toasted pecans for garnish. This will add texture and enhance the visual appeal of the cake.
4. **Let It Set**: Allow the cake to set for about 30 minutes to an hour, giving the frosting time to firm up slightly.
#### Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cake has set, slice and serve. The rich, buttery caramel, combined with the toasted pecans and moist cake, makes for an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
### Tips and Variations for the Perfect Southern Pecan Caramel Cake
– **Make It in Advance**: The cake can be made in advance and stored in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. This gives the caramel frosting time to set and allows the flavors to meld together even more.
– **Use Dark Brown Sugar**: For a deeper, more intense caramel flavor, consider using dark brown sugar in the frosting.
– **Toast the Pecans**: Toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and brings out their natural oils. Spread them on a baking sheet and bake them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until golden and fragrant.
– **Add a Dash of Bourbon**: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a tablespoon of bourbon to the caramel sauce for an extra layer of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the caramel and the richness of the pecans.
### Conclusion
Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is an iconic Southern dessert that combines rich, buttery caramel with the crunch of toasted pecans and a tender, moist cake. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion, a family gathering, or just because, this cake will undoubtedly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.
With its decadent caramel frosting and perfectly baked cake, every bite of this dessert will transport you to the heart of the South, where hospitality and tradition come together in the most delicious way. So, the next
time you’re craving something sweet and indulgent, look no further than this classic Southern treat—you won’t be disappointed!
