Southern Pecan Caramel Cake

Introduction

Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a rich, decadent dessert that embodies the essence of Southern baking. With layers of moist, buttery cake filled with a luscious caramel pecan filling and topped with a creamy caramel frosting, this cake is perfect for special occasions or anytime you want to indulge. This detailed recipe will guide you through making this delicious cake from scratch, ensuring every bite is a taste of Southern comfort.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• All-purpose flour: 2 1/2 cups
• Baking powder: 2 teaspoons
• Baking soda: 1/2 teaspoon
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
• Unsalted butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened
• Granulated sugar: 1 1/2 cups
• Brown sugar: 1/2 cup, packed
• Eggs: 4 large
• Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons
• Buttermilk: 1 cup
• Pecans: 1 cup, finely chopped

For the Caramel Filling:

• Brown sugar: 1 1/2 cups, packed
• Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
• Heavy cream: 1/2 cup
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
• Pecans: 1 cup, coarsely chopped

For the Caramel Frosting:

• Brown sugar: 1 cup, packed
• Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick)
• Heavy cream: 1/4 cup
• Powdered sugar: 2 cups, sifted
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

Preparation

Step 1: Make the Cake Layers

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars:
   • In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
   • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk:
   • With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
6. Fold in Pecans:
   • Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans.
7. Bake the Cakes:
   • Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
   • Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Boil and Thicken:
   • Continue to boil for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and coarsely chopped pecans.
3. Cool the Filling:
   • Allow the caramel filling to cool to room temperature before using it to fill the cake layers.

Step 3: Make the Caramel Frosting

1. Prepare the Caramel Base:
   • In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Boil and Cool:
   • Boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Frosting:
   • Transfer the caramel mixture to a mixing bowl. Gradually beat in the sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Layer the Cakes:
   • Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the caramel filling over the top. Repeat with the second cake layer and the remaining caramel filling. Place the third cake layer on top.
2. Frost the Cake:
   • Spread a thin layer of caramel frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Refrigerate the cake for 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat.
   • Once set, apply the remaining caramel frosting to the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
3. Garnish:
   • If desired, garnish the top of the cake with additional chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Tips for Success

• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter, eggs, and buttermilk, are at room temperature for the best results.
• Proper Cooling: Allow the cake layers and caramel filling to cool completely before assembling to prevent the filling from melting and sliding.
• Consistency: If the caramel frosting becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to achieve the desired consistency.

Variations

• Chocolate Caramel Cake: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers for a chocolatey twist.
• Spiced Pecan Cake: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the cake batter for a spiced version.
• Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel filling and frosting for a salted caramel flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• With Coffee: Pair a slice of this rich cake with a cup of coffee or espresso.
• Special Occasions: Serve at birthdays, holidays, or any celebration for a show-stopping dessert.
• Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent treat.

Conclusion

Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a decadent dessert that brings together the flavors of buttery cake, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans. This detailed recipe ensures a perfect result, with every bite delivering the comfort and sweetness of Southern baking. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful cake with family and friends.