Caramel Pecan Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
3 cups (360g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (240g) unsalted butter, room temperature
2 cups (400g) sugar
4 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
For the Caramel Sauce:
1 cup (200g) brown sugar
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
4 tablespoons (56g) unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For the Filling:
1/2 cup caramel sauce (from above)
1 cup (100g) chopped pecans
For the Topping:
Whole pecans for decoration
Remaining caramel sauce
Instructions:
Prepare the Cake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch cake pans.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Alternately add flour mixture and buttermilk, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Make the Caramel Sauce:
Combine brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan over medium heat.
Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on your serving plate. Spread with one-third of the caramel sauce, then sprinkle half the chopped pecans over it. Top with the second cake layer and repeat the caramel and pecan layers.
Add the final cake layer and spread the remaining caramel sauce over the top of the cake, letting it drip down the sides. Decorate with whole pecans.
Serve:
Let the cake set for about 30 minutes to allow the caramel to firm up slightly before slicing.
This cake is perfect for any special occasion or just when you want to indulge in something sweet and spectacular. Enjoy your baking and the delicious results!