Rich, buttery layers filled and topped with luscious homemade caramel and crunchy toasted pecans—this Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a true showstopper. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving down-home comfort in dessert form.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole buttermilk
For the Caramel Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
- 2 cups packed brown sugar
- 2/3 cup evaporated milk
- 4–5 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
Directions:
1. Make the Cake Layers:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla.
- Add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
2. Prepare the Caramel Frosting:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and stir constantly for 2 minutes.
- Stir in evaporated milk and bring to a gentle boil. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Gradually beat in sifted powdered sugar and vanilla until thick and spreadable. (Add more sugar if needed.)
3. Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread with a generous amount of caramel frosting. Repeat with remaining layers.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake. Sprinkle toasted pecans over the top while the frosting is still slightly warm and sticky.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Cooling + Assembly: 1 hour
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 12
Calories: ~600 per serving
Sweet, nutty, and dripping in caramel, this Southern classic is pure indulgence in every bite. Just be warned—it disappears fast!