Here’s how to make the ultimate Southern Pecan Caramel Cake that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds)! This decadent dessert is filled with rich, buttery cake layers and topped with a sweet, gooey caramel glaze and crunchy toasted pecans. It’s truly a slice of Southern heaven.
🍰 Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
For the Caramel Glaze:
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- **Pinch of salt
- ½ cup chopped pecans (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare Pans
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal once baked.
2. Toast the Pecans
Toast your pecans by placing them in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re fragrant and golden brown. Set aside to cool.
3. Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Fold in the toasted pecans for added crunch and flavor.
4. Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
Bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
5. Make the Caramel Glaze
While the cake cools, prepare the caramel glaze. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir constantly until the mixture comes to a simmer. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
Let the glaze cool for a few minutes before pouring it over the cake.
6. Assemble the Cake
Place one layer of the cake on your serving plate. Pour half of the caramel glaze over the first layer, allowing it to soak in and drizzle down the sides. Place the second cake layer on top and pour the remaining glaze over the top of the cake.
Sprinkle the remaining chopped toasted pecans over the top of the cake for a delightful crunch.
7. Serve & Enjoy
Allow the cake to set for about 15 minutes to let the glaze firm up before slicing. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
🍽️ Pro Tips for the Perfect Southern Pecan Caramel Cake:
- Buttermilk Is Key – The buttermilk adds tanginess to balance the richness of the cake, so don’t substitute with regular milk.
- Toast Your Pecans – Toasting the pecans brings out their natural oils and deepens the flavor, making your cake even more delicious.
- Make-Ahead Option – You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap. Glaze the cake just before serving.
- Caramel Glaze Tips – If the glaze thickens too much, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen it up. You want it to be pourable but thick enough to drip down the cake in a beautiful cascade.
🎉 Why This Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a Must-Try:
- Rich & Decadent – The balance of the soft cake, toasted pecans, and buttery caramel glaze makes this cake a real treat.
- Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or simply craving a slice of Southern comfort, this cake is sure to impress.
- Made to Share – It’s the kind of cake that’s perfect for sharing, whether with family or at a gathering, and it’s bound to be the highlight of any dessert table!
Enjoy a slice of Southern hospitality with this indulgent Southern Pecan Caramel Cake—it’s truly comfort in cake form.