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
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
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.
Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
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.
Fold in Pecans:
Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans.
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
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.
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.
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
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.
Boil and Cool:
Boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
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
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.
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.
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.