Indulge in the rich, nutty, and buttery goodness of Caramel Pecan Cake, a dessert that combines the luxurious sweetness of caramel with the crunch of toasted pecans. Perfect for family gatherings, festive celebrations, or a cozy weekend treat, this Caramel Pecan Cake recipe brings comfort and elegance to your table. Whether you’re a baking novice or an experienced home chef, this step-by-step guide will help you create a moist, flavorful, and visually stunning dessert.
The delicate balance between the soft, moist cake layers and the gooey caramel topping, complemented by crunchy pecans, makes this cake irresistible. By following this recipe, you’ll master the art of baking a Caramel Pecan Cake that looks as good as it tastes, leaving your guests impressed and satisfied.
Why You’ll Love This Caramel Pecan Cake
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Rich Flavor Profile: Buttery cake with deep caramel notes and toasted pecans for a sophisticated taste.
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Moist and Tender Texture: Each bite melts in your mouth without being overly sweet.
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Quick & Easy: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this cake beginner-friendly.
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Versatile Dessert: Perfect for birthdays, Thanksgiving, or festive celebrations.
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Customizable Toppings: Add cream cheese frosting, caramel drizzle, or chocolate for extra flair.
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Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be baked in advance and stored for days without losing freshness.
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Budget-Friendly Ingredients: Uses pantry staples without compromising on taste.
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Family Favorite: Loved by adults and kids alike, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients for Caramel Pecan Cake
Cake Base:
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened – adds richness and moisture.
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1 ½ cups granulated sugar – sweetens and helps the cake brown.
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4 large eggs – provides structure and moisture.
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2 tsp vanilla extract – enhances flavor depth.
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2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – forms the soft cake base.
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2 ½ tsp baking powder – ensures a light, fluffy texture.
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½ tsp salt – balances sweetness.
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1 cup whole milk – keeps the cake tender and moist.
Caramel Pecan Topping:
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1 cup brown sugar – forms a rich caramel flavor.
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½ cup unsalted butter, melted – for gooey texture.
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¼ cup heavy cream – smooths out the caramel.
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1 ½ cups chopped pecans – adds crunch and nuttiness.
Optional Frosting & Garnish:
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Cream cheese frosting, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle.
Substitutions & Tips:
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Use coconut milk for a dairy-free variation.
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Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
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Light brown sugar adds a milder caramel taste; dark brown sugar intensifies it.
How to Make Caramel Pecan Cake
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal. Toast the pecans lightly in a dry pan for 5 minutes to enhance their flavor.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures even distribution and prevents clumping, which could affect cake texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until fluffy. This process incorporates air, producing a lighter cake structure.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract. Beat until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with milk. Mix until just combined to prevent overworking gluten, which can make the cake dense.
Step 6: Assemble Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Set aside.
Step 7: Prepare Caramel Pecan Topping
Mix brown sugar, melted butter, and heavy cream until smooth. Fold in the toasted pecans. Pour over cake batter evenly.
Step 8: Bake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly before serving.
Pro Tips for Perfect Caramel Pecan Cake
How Do You Make the Cake Moist?
Use room-temperature eggs and butter. Alternating dry and wet ingredients helps create a tender, airy crumb.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes! Bake the cake a day in advance. Store covered at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 3 days.
How Do You Prevent the Caramel from Sinking?
Pour caramel pecan mixture gently over batter and bake immediately. Avoid resting batter with topping before baking.
Best Ways to Serve
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Slice and serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
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Drizzle extra caramel sauce and top with whipped cream for a party-ready dessert.
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Pair with coffee or a sweet dessert wine for a gourmet touch.
Nutrition (per serving, 12 servings)
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Calories: 410
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Total Fat: 22g
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Saturated Fat: 9g
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Carbohydrates: 52g
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Sugars: 35g
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Protein: 5g
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Fiber: 1g
Storage & Leftovers
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Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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Refrigerator: Wrap tightly to prevent drying; lasts 4–5 days.
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Freezer: Freeze individual slices in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
FAQs About Caramel Pecan Cake
Can I Make This Gluten-Free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. The texture may be slightly different but still moist.
Can I Use a Bundt Pan Instead?
Absolutely! Adjust baking time to 45–50 minutes, checking doneness with a toothpick.
How Do I Keep the Pecans Crunchy?
Toast pecans lightly before adding to caramel topping. Serve soon after baking for maximum crunch.
Can I Substitute Caramel Sauce?
Yes, but homemade caramel offers better flavor and texture.
Variations
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Gourmet Version: Add cream cheese frosting and chocolate shavings.
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Vegan Option: Substitute plant-based butter, flax eggs, and coconut milk.
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Mini Cupcakes: Bake in a muffin tin for single-serving treats.
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Holiday Twist: Add cinnamon or nutmeg for seasonal flavor.
Conclusion
Nothing beats the warm, buttery indulgence of a homemade Caramel Pecan Cake. This dessert brings a perfect balance of texture, flavor, and sweetness that makes every bite memorable. Impress your family, friends, or guests with this decadent treat and share the joy of baking.