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Pecan Pie Cake

pecan pie cake

Learn how to bake a delicious pecan pie cake with this step-by-step guide. Discover tips and tricks for creating this perfect blend of two classic desserts.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine Southern American
Servings 10 servings
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Cake Batter:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter room temperature
  • 1½ cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ½ cup chopped pecans

For the Pecan Caramel Topping:

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup
  • 2 tbsp corn syrup
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 cup toasted pecans

For the Brown Sugar Buttercream(optional)

  • 1 cup unsalted butter softened
  • ½ cup dark brown sugar
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 2 tbsp heavy cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pecan Caramel Topping:

  • In a saucepan, melt butter and brown sugar over medium-low heat.
  • Stir in maple syrup, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt.
  • Let it simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
  • Add toasted pecans and stir.
  • Pour into a greased 9-inch cake pan.

Make the Cake Batter:

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • In a bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy.
  • Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each.
  • Mix in vanilla extract.
  • In another bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
  • Alternate adding dry ingredients and milk, mixing gently.
  • Fold in chopped pecans.

Assemble and Bake the Cake:

  • Pour the batter over the pecan caramel topping in the cake pan.
  • Spread evenly to ensure even baking.
  • Bake for 30-35 minutes until a toothpick comes out with a few moist crumbs.

Cool and Invert:

  • Let the cake rest in the pan for 10 minutes.
  • Flip onto a serving plate to reveal the caramelized pecans on top.
  • Allow to cool completely before frosting (if using buttercream).

(Optional) Prepare Brown Sugar Buttercream:

  • Beat butter and brown sugar until smooth.
  • Add powdered sugar, mixing gradually.
  • Stir in heavy cream and vanilla for a fluffy texture.
  • Spread buttercream over the cooled cake.

Serve & Enjoy:

  • Serve warm or at room temperature.
  • Pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or extra caramel drizzle.
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