Pecan Praline Cake

If you’re a fan of pecans, then this Pecan Praline Cake with Butter Sauce is about to become your new favorite dessert! This delightful treat is not only rich in flavor but also surprisingly easy to make, thanks to a little shortcut—using a cake mix as the base. Imagine a moist cake topped with a sweet, buttery sauce; it’s the perfect indulgence for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pecan Praline Cake is a dream come true for pecan lovers. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep work and basic kitchen tools. The cake is moist and flavorful, with the pecans adding a delightful crunch. Plus, the butter sauce elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13 baking dish
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Medium mixing bowl or stand mixer
• Saucepan
• Mixing spoons
• Spatula
• 10-inch round cake board

Ingredients

Praline Cream Cheese Filling:

• 1 8oz Philadelphia Cream Cheese
• ½ cup butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla flavor
• ¼ cup finely chopped pecans (You may add more or less if you’d like)

Praline Topping:

• 1 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 stick butter (1/2 cup)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla flavor
• 1 ½ cups of pecan pieces
• Extra can of evaporated milk to thin, if needed

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a medium bowl or stand mixer, combine all the cake ingredients except for the chopped pecans, including the tub of coconut pecan frosting. Mix until well combined.
3. For the Praline Cream Cheese Filling, blend cream cheese and butter with a mixer until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar while beating at low speed until blended. Add vanilla flavor and stir in pecans. Chill slightly before frosting the cake.
4. To make the Praline Topping, melt butter, sugar, and evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir to combine, then bring to a slow boil. Reduce heat to medium/low and cook for about 15 minutes without stirring.
5. After 15 minutes, stir the mixture, scraping the bottom and sides. Continue cooking while stirring for about 10 more minutes, then add vanilla and stir until combined. Remove from heat and stir in pecan pieces. If too thick, thin with evaporated milk as needed.
6. Allow the topping to cool slightly before frosting the cake. Do not cool too long as it will thicken; it should be somewhat warm for frosting.
7. Assemble the cake by using your favorite yellow cake recipe to make three 9-inch layers in advance. Once cooled, flip one layer onto a cake board and spread with praline cream cheese frosting. Repeat with the second layer. Top with the third layer.
8. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before frosting the sides and top with the praline topping. Enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cake layers are completely cool before assembling to prevent the frosting from melting.
• Adjust the thickness of the praline topping with evaporated milk as needed for easier spreading.
• Use a cake board for easy handling and serving.

Additional Tips or Variations

• For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a hint of cinnamon to the cake batter.
• You can substitute walnuts for pecans if preferred.
• Try topping the finished cake with a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet and salty contrast.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories, fats, and other nutritional information will vary depending on portion size and specific ingredient brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this cake in advance? Yes, you can prepare the cake layers a day ahead and assemble it before serving.

Can I use a different type of frosting? While the praline cream cheese frosting is recommended, you can experiment with other frostings as desired.

How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Conclusion

This Pecan Praline Cake with Butter Sauce is an absolute must-try for pecan enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike. It’s an easy, yet impressive cake that’s sure to delight your family and guests. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experiences with us. Enjoy every bite!