Praline Pecan Cake Recipe

Pecan Praline Cake is a simple, delicious dessert with a moist, buttery cake, crunchy pecans, and a sweet caramel glaze. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or any sweet craving, this beginner-friendly recipe delivers a Southern classic in under an hour.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 ½ cups chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)

For the Praline Glaze:

• ½ cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or Bundt pan.
2. In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy (about 3 minutes).
3. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well. Stir in vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Slowly add dry ingredients to the wet mix, alternating with milk. Stir until just combined.
6. Fold in toasted pecans.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Spread batter evenly in the prepared pan.
2. Bake for 35–40 minutes (9×13 pan) or 45–50 minutes (Bundt pan).
3. Test with a toothpick—if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
4. Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 3: Prepare the Praline Glaze

1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar.
2. Once sugar dissolves, add heavy cream and stir.
3. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thick.
4. Remove from heat, add vanilla and salt, and stir.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

1. Pour warm glaze over the cake, letting it soak in.
2. Let the cake sit for 10 minutes to set the glaze.
3. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for Success

• Toast Pecans: Toast pecans in a dry skillet for 3–5 minutes to boost flavor.
• Avoid Overmixing: Mix batter just until combined for a soft, fluffy cake.
• Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: Soft butter and eggs blend better for a smooth batter.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for 1 month.

Serving Ideas

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.
• Top with whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a cozy dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Quick and Easy: Simple steps for a stunning dessert.
• Rich Flavor: Caramel, pecans, and butter create a Southern classic.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for any occasion, from holidays to weeknight treats.

Enjoy this easy Pecan Praline Cake recipe and share it with friends!