There is something irresistibly comforting about the Pecan Praline Cake Recipe, a luscious blend of buttery pecan flavors and rich praline glaze that feels like a warm hug in every bite. This cake is a celebration of texture and taste: a moist, tender crumb studded with crunchy pecans, topped with a glossy, sweet glaze that perfectly complements the buttery cake beneath. Whether you’re serving it for a family gathering or craving a decadent treat to brighten your afternoon, this cake always steals the show and leaves everyone wanting more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, well-chosen ingredients is the secret to making this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe truly shine. Each component plays a crucial role in creating that melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep, nutty flavor that defines this dessert.
- Butter pecan cake mix: The base of the cake, bringing buttery richness and that signature pecan flavor effortlessly.
- Coconut pecan frosting: Adds creaminess and a hint of coconut sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
- Large eggs: Provides structure and richness to the batter, helping it rise perfectly.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist and tender without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Water: Hydrates the dry ingredients, creating a smooth batter and perfect crumb.
- Chopped pecans: Adds delightful crunch and deep, toasty nutty notes throughout the cake.
- Unsalted butter: The base of the praline glaze, giving it a rich and velvety texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness and helps achieve that irresistible caramel-like glaze.
How to Make Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 10-inch Bundt pan so your cake doesn’t stick and comes out beautifully smooth. This initial step is essential for an easy release and a polished presentation.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Beat everything together with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until the batter is silky smooth. This combination of ingredients makes for a wonderfully moist and flavorful cake base.
Step 3: Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the batter. These nuts add a satisfying texture and deepen the pecan flavor, giving the cake that classic crunch with each bite.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour your luscious batter into the prepared baking dish or Bundt pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes if using the baking dish, or 50-55 minutes for the Bundt pan. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack if you baked it in a Bundt pan.
Step 5: Make the Praline Glaze
While your cake is cooling, prepare the irresistible praline glaze. Melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat in a small saucepan. Stir in 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk and warm it gently for 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans. This glaze will bring a rich, caramelized crunch that’s simply unforgettable.
Step 6: Glaze and Serve
Drizzle the warm praline glaze generously over your cooled cake, allowing it to soak into every nook and cranny. Slice it up and get ready for a moment of pure indulgence that perfectly showcases the magic of this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe.
How to Serve Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle additional chopped pecans on top after glazing to boost the nutty texture and add an eye-catching finish. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a small dollop of whipped cream also complements the cake’s sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a simple bowl of fresh berries, which provide a bright contrast to the rich, buttery flavors. A cup of strong coffee or a creamy latte also works wonders alongside a slice.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual slices on a pretty dessert plate with a cinnamon stick for stirring or a fresh sprig of mint as decoration. Alternatively, cut into squares and serve on cocktail picks for an easy, elegant dessert tray that’s perfect for parties or potlucks.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Pecan Praline Cake Recipe can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For the best texture, keep it away from direct sunlight and humidity.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results and refresh the glaze before serving if needed.
Reheating
Reheat leftover slices gently in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until just warm. Avoid overheating to keep the cake moist and preserve the delicate praline glaze.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of the box mix?
Absolutely! While the box mix provides convenience and consistent flavor, a homemade butter pecan cake batter can make this dessert even more personalized and fresh-tasting. Just be sure to keep the balance of moisture and fat similar for the best texture.
What if I don’t have coconut pecan frosting?
You can substitute with plain cream cheese frosting or even a homemade buttercream. The coconut in the original frosting adds a subtle tropical note, but the cake will still be delicious without it.
Can I make this cake nut-free?
This recipe heavily relies on pecans for its signature flavor and texture, but to make it nut-free, you could try substituting chopped crunchy seeds like pumpkin seeds and adjusting the glaze accordingly. Just keep in mind it won’t be quite the same classic Pecan Praline Cake Recipe.
Is the praline glaze difficult to make?
Not at all! The praline glaze is quite simple—just butter, sweetened condensed milk, and pecans warmed together. It only takes a few minutes and lifts the entire cake to the next level of deliciousness.
Can I bake this cake in cupcakes?
Yes, you can! Adjust the baking time to about 18-22 minutes and watch closely for doneness. The glaze can be drizzled or spooned over each cupcake for a charming individual treat.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels homemade and decadent all at once, this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s bursting with flavor, texture, and warmth that make every bite feel like a celebration. Trust me, once you try it, it will become your go-to crowd-pleaser and a recipe you’ll reach for time and time again.
Print
Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and moist pecan praline cake featuring a buttery butter pecan cake base mixed with coconut pecan frosting and chopped pecans, topped with a warm, sweet praline glaze made from butter, sweetened condensed milk, and pecans. Perfect for dessert lovers who enjoy nutty, buttery flavors combined with a luscious glaze.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) butter pecan cake mix
- 1 can (16 oz) coconut pecan frosting
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Praline Glaze Ingredients
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 10-inch Bundt pan to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Use an electric mixer to beat everything together until the batter is smooth and well blended, approximately 2 minutes.
- Fold in Pecans: Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans into the batter to evenly distribute the nuts without overmixing.
- Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish or Bundt pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake the Cake: Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes if using a 9×13-inch pan or 50-55 minutes for a Bundt pan. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack if you used a Bundt pan.
- Prepare Praline Glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and continue heating until warm, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup chopped pecans to complete the glaze.
- Glaze and Serve: Drizzle the warm praline glaze evenly over the cooled cake. Slice into servings and enjoy your delicious pecan praline cake!
Notes
- You can choose to bake this cake in either a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 10-inch Bundt pan depending on your preference.
- Allow the cake to cool slightly before glazing to ensure the glaze stays on top and doesn’t melt into the cake.
- For extra crunch, toast the pecans lightly before adding to the batter and glaze.
- Use fresh pecans to enhance nutty flavor and texture.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
