Introduction
Pecan Praline Cake is a rich Southern-style dessert known for its moist, buttery crumb and its iconic praline topping made from pecans, brown sugar, and cream. This cake brings together classic Southern flavors in a dessert that feels warm, nostalgic, and celebratory. The combination of soft cake and caramel-like praline sauce creates an indulgent texture that keeps people coming back for more. This recipe is easy enough for beginners yet impressive enough for holidays and special gatherings.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup whole milk
1 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup chopped pecans
For the Praline Sauce:
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a large mixing bowl combine flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Add melted butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
Fold in the chopped pecans with a spatula.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
While the cake bakes prepare the praline sauce. In a saucepan melt butter over medium heat.
Add brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil and stir continuously for 3 to 4 minutes.
Turn off the heat and stir in pecans and vanilla extract.
When the cake is done remove it from the oven. While it is still hot pour the warm praline sauce evenly over the top.
Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving so the sauce thickens and sinks into the cake.
Methods
The cake uses the basic butter-mixing method, which creates a moist and tender crumb. The praline sauce is a quick caramel-style method made using sugar, butter, and cream. Pouring the sauce on the warm cake allows the flavors to absorb and create the signature praline texture.
History
The roots of pecan praline desserts come from Southern American cooking, especially Louisiana and Texas, where pecans grow in abundance. Pralines were originally inspired by French settlers who combined local pecans with sugar and cream. Over time cooks transformed pralines into sauces and added them to cakes. Pecan Praline Cake became popular in the mid-1900s as a comforting potluck and holiday dessert.
Benefits
It is easy to make with basic ingredients.
It is rich, satisfying, and perfect for celebrations.
Pecans provide healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants.
The cake stays moist for days and tastes even better the next day.
Formation
The cake forms a dense but soft texture. As the warm praline sauce seeps into the cake it bonds the layers, giving the dessert its signature creamy top and caramel-infused crumb.
Nutrition (approximate per slice, 12 slices)
Calories: 420
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fat: 22g
Protein: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 38g
Conclusion
Pecan Praline Cake is a timeless dessert that blends the deep sweetness of caramel with the nutty richness of pecans. Whether it is for a holiday table, Sunday dinner, or a quick homemade treat, this cake always stands out as a crowd-pleaser.
Lovers
This cake is especially loved by Southern dessert fans, caramel lovers, nut lovers, and anyone who enjoys a moist, buttery cake with deep flavor. It has become a favorite recipe for families, potluck gatherings, and celebrations because of its aroma, taste, and simplicity.