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Vanilla Pecan Praline Cake

A delightful and easy cake featuring moist vanilla layers topped with a crunchy pecan praline, perfect for busy bakers and special occasions.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Course: Cake, Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups granulated sugar
  • 0.5 cups unsalted butter, softened Bring to room temperature before using.
  • 1 cups buttermilk Can substitute with milk and vinegar if needed.
  • 3 large eggs At room temperature.
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Praline Topping
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 0.5 cups heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Cream them together until fluffy, then add the eggs one by one, followed by the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to your wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.
  4. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Divide the batter between the pans and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool for a bit.
Make the Praline Topping
  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and cream until it’s bubbly. Add the pecans and vanilla extract, then let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Assemble and Serve
  1. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the praline topping over the top, add the second cake layer, and drizzle the remaining topping over.
  2. Enjoy!

Notes

This cake can be made a day in advance; just store it in the fridge to help the flavors meld together beautifully. If you like a little more texture, try adding some flaky sea salt on top for a savory kick against the sweet!