Southern Pecan Caramel Cake Recipe: A Sweet Southern Delight

INSTRUCTIONS:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper circles for easy removal.
2. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using an electric mixer on medium speed.
3. Add the Eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This ensures a smooth and well-combined batter.
4. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
5. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Milk: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.
6. Add the Vanilla and Pecans: Stir in the vanilla extract and fold in the toasted pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7. Bake the Cake Layers: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Frosting

1. Melt the Butter: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the Brown Sugar: Stir in the packed brown sugar and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes. The mixture should begin to bubble and thicken slightly.
3. Add the Milk: Slowly pour in the milk, stirring continuously. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then remove it from the heat.
4. Add the Powdered Sugar: Gradually whisk in the sifted powdered sugar until the frosting is smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Cool the Frosting: Allow the frosting to cool slightly before spreading it on the cake. If the frosting thickens too much, you can thin it out with a little milk.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Level the Cake Layers: If necessary, level the tops of the cake layers with a serrated knife to ensure even stacking.
2. Frost the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of caramel frosting over the top. Repeat with the second layer, then place the final cake layer on top.
3. Frost the Sides and Top: Spread the remaining caramel frosting over the sides and top of the cake. Work quickly, as the frosting will firm up as it cools.
4. Garnish with Pecans: Sprinkle the top of the cake with the toasted chopped pecans for an extra crunch and a beautiful finish.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy Allow the cake to sit for about 30 minutes before slicing to let the frosting set. This Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is best enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. The moist cake, nutty pecans, and rich caramel frosting create a dessert that’s as indulgent as it is comforting