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Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake topped with pecan praline frosting

Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake

A delightful cake that combines rich buttery flavor with crunchy pecans and sweet praline frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup buttermilk Can be substituted with milk + vinegar or lemon juice.
  • 5 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Praline Topping
  • 1 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 cups chopped pecans Can be substituted with walnuts.
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a large sheet cake pan.
Mixing the Batter
  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
  2. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk.
  4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
  6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly.
Baking
  1. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Preparing the Praline Topping
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter, then add the brown sugar and heavy cream.
  2. Stir until smooth and bubbly, then let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract, then remove from heat.
Final Assembly
  1. Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, pour the warm praline mixture over the cake.
  2. Allow the praline topping to soak into the cake.
Serving
  1. Slice the cake into squares and serve.

Notes

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. A cream cheese frosting can be added before the praline for additional sweetness.