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Southern Pecan Caramel Cake 

Southern Pecan Caramel Cake 

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Instructions

1. Preheat Your Oven:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy release.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter:

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  4. Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—don’t overmix.

3. Divide & Bake:

  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. Remove the cakes from the oven and allow them to cool completely in the pans before removing them from their pans.

4. Make the Caramel Sauce:

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  2. Stir in the brown sugar and salt. Cook until the mixture is bubbly.
  3. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and stir for 3-4 minutes, or until the caramel thickens slightly.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Allow to cool for a few minutes.

5. Toast the Pecans (Optional):

  1. Toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes until fragrant. This will enhance their nutty flavor.

6. Assemble the Cake:

  1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of caramel sauce over the top.
  2. Sprinkle a handful of pecans over the caramel.
  3. Add the second cake layer and repeat the process—spread caramel, add pecans, and stack the third cake layer on top.
  4. Top the final layer with more caramel sauce and sprinkle with additional toasted pecans.

7. Chill & Serve:

Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the caramel to set slightly and makes slicing easier.

Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Tips for Success

🌟 Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can result in a dense cake. Mix just until everything is incorporated.

🌟 Toast the Pecans: While optional, toasting the pecans enhances their flavor and adds a beautiful depth to the cake.

🌟 Cool Before Assembly: Ensure your cake layers are completely cooled before layering to prevent the caramel from melting.

🌟 Make Extra Caramel: If you love caramel (and who doesn’t?), make a bit more to drizzle over individual slices when serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Southern Pecan Caramel Cake with:

  • A hot cup of coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon treat.
  • A scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert combo.
  • Fresh whipped cream to balance out the sweetness.

Final Thoughts

This Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is the kind of dessert that feels like home. It’s rich, buttery, and loaded with layers of sweet, gooey caramel and crunchy pecans—creating the ultimate comfort food dessert. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to treat yourself, this cake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake this irresistible Southern classic. Your taste buds will thank you!

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