Introduction
This rich and tender Caramel Pecan Cake is a delicious dessert for anyone who loves buttery pecans and creamy caramel. The cake is soft and moist, filled with crunchy pecans, and finished with a generous caramel glaze that slowly drips over every slice. It is perfect for holidays, family gatherings, birthdays, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.
Instruction
Ingredients
For the cake
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
1 cup chopped pecans
For the caramel topping
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped pecans
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch Bundt pan or round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients gradually, alternating with the sour cream. Mix just until combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the chopped pecans gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for approximately 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a serving plate.
- To prepare the caramel, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and heavy cream.
- Stir continuously and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla and salt.
- Let the caramel cool slightly, then drizzle it generously over the cake.
- Sprinkle additional chopped pecans over the caramel and allow the topping to set slightly before serving.
Benefits
Pecans provide healthy fats, protein, fiber, and minerals such as magnesium and zinc. Eggs add protein, while sour cream or Greek yogurt helps create a tender and moist cake. Because this is a dessert, it is best enjoyed as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet.
Nutrition
Approximate nutrition per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients
Calories: 520
Protein: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 61 g
Fat: 29 g
Saturated Fat: 13 g
Fiber: 2 g
Sugar: 39 g
Sodium: 300 mg
Tips
Use room-temperature butter and eggs for a smoother batter.
Toast the pecans lightly before adding them for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Do not overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this can make the cake dense.
Allow the cake to cool before adding the caramel so the topping remains thick enough to coat the cake.
For an extra-rich finish, reserve some caramel and drizzle it over individual slices just before serving.
Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate it for longer storage.
Conclusion
This Caramel Pecan Cake combines a soft, buttery cake with crunchy pecans and a luscious homemade caramel topping. Every bite is rich, comforting, and full of warm nutty flavor. Serve it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert.