Indulge in this rich and moist Pecan Praline Cake, layered with a creamy filling and topped with a luscious praline sauce. Perfect for special occasio
Pecan Praline Cake: A Delightful Dessert
If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the rich flavors of pecans with creamy goodness, look no further than this Pecan Praline Cake. This cake features moist layers of yellow cake filled with a decadent cream cheese praline filling and drizzled with a sweet praline topping. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a sweet treat to share with family and friends, this cake will surely impress!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Praline Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ cup finely chopped pecans
For the Praline Topping:
- 1½ cups evaporated milk
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1½ cups pecan pieces
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Beat on low speed until combined, then increase to medium speed and beat for 2 minutes.
- Pour Batter: Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake: Bake 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 before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
2️⃣ Prepare the Praline Cream Cheese Filling:
- Beat Filling: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until fully combined.
- Flavor and Pecans: Stir in the vanilla extract and finely chopped pecans. Chill the filling in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up.
3️⃣ Prepare the Praline Topping:
- Cook Topping: In a medium saucepan, combine the evaporated milk, granulated sugar, and butter over medium heat. Stir until the butter melts and the sugar dissolves.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens.
- Finish Topping: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and pecan pieces. Let the topping cool slightly.
4️⃣ Assemble the Cake:
- Layer the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous amount of praline cream cheese filling on top.
- Repeat: Add the second and third cake layers, spreading the filling between each layer.
- Pour Topping: Pour the praline topping over the top of the assembled cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
- Garnish: Garnish with additional pecan pieces, if desired.
5️⃣ Serve and Enjoy:
- Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Enjoy this rich, decadent Pecan Praline Cake with family and friends!
FAQ
Q: Can I use a homemade cake mix instead of a box mix?
A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe if you prefer.
Q: How should I store leftover cake?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers in advance and assemble it the day you plan to serve it.
Q: Is there a substitute for cream cheese in the filling?
A: You could use mascarpone cheese for a different flavor, though the texture and taste will differ slightly.
Conclusion
This Pecan Praline Cake is a deliciously indulgent dessert that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. With its moist layers, creamy filling, and sweet praline topping, every bite is a delightful experience. Whether for a special celebration or just to treat yourself, this cake promises to satisfy your sweet cravings and impress your guests. Enjoy making and sharing this beautiful dessert!