Southern Pecan Caramel Cake

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour

Intensity

• Skill Level: Moderate
• Intensity: Medium

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 2 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Caramel Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 4 cups powdered sugar

For Garnish:

• 1 cup whole pecans, toasted

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
3. Bake the Cake:
   • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Caramel Frosting:
   • In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture comes to a boil.
   • Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
   • Allow the caramel mixture to cool slightly, then gradually beat in the powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.
5. Assemble the Cake:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of caramel frosting over the top.
   • Add the second cake layer and repeat with more frosting. Add the third cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
   • Press the toasted whole pecans around the sides of the cake and arrange some on top for decoration.
6. Serve:
   • Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
   • Enjoy your Southern Pecan Caramel Cake with family and friends!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, 1 Slice)

• Calories: 550
• Total Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
• Cholesterol: 105mg
• Sodium: 250mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 74g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 54g
• Protein: 5g