If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that perfectly combines the rich, buttery charm of pecans with the creamy sweetness of praline, you are absolutely going to love this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe. It’s a celebration of textures and flavors that come together in a moist, tender cake layered with a luscious praline glaze and studded with crunchy pecan bits. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat that feels like a warm hug, this recipe delivers on every level with its irresistible combination of buttery cake and nutty praline goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this Pecan Praline Cake Recipe are straightforward and simple but crucial to achieving the perfect taste and texture. Each one plays a role in building that signature moist cake base and the decadent praline topping that sets this dessert apart.
- Butter pecan cake mix: The foundation of your cake with a built-in pecan flavor that keeps things easy and delicious.
- Coconut pecan frosting: Adds a creamy, nutty sweetness that enhances the cake’s texture.
- Eggs: Provide structure and richness, ensuring a tender crumb.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the cake moist without overwhelming the pecan flavor.
- Water: Hydrates the mix to create that perfect cake batter consistency.
- Chopped pecans: Bring crunch and a nutty depth both inside the cake and on top.
- Unsalted butter (for praline glaze): Adds richness and a silky texture to the glaze.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Sweetens and thickens the praline glaze for that signature sticky-sweet finish.
How to Make Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease either a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 10-inch Bundt pan depending on your preference. This ensures your cake releases neatly after baking and helps form that beautiful crust.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated, which usually takes about 2 minutes. This step is where the magic begins: the frosting adds moisture and richness right into the batter, setting this cake apart from ordinary boxed mixes.
Step 3: Fold in the Pecans
Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the batter. This adds delightful texture and bursts of nutty flavor throughout the cake, making every bite interesting and satisfying.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
Pour the prepared batter into your greased pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes if using the 9×13 dish, or 50-55 minutes for the Bundt pan. Keep an eye towards the end of baking, and check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. Once done, let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack if using a Bundt pan, which helps it set perfectly for glazing.
Step 5: Prepare and Apply the Praline Glaze
While the cake cools, melt unsalted butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and warm gently for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining 1/2 cup chopped pecans. This warm praline glaze is the crowning glory of your cake. Drizzle it generously over the cooled cake, allowing it to seep into every nook and add sticky, buttery sweetness with a delightful crunch.
How to Serve Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Add a little extra charm by sprinkling toasted pecan halves on top for presentation and an even more pronounced crunch. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also lend a festive, snowy look.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. If you want a fruity contrast, try serving it alongside a tangy berry compote or fresh sliced pears to brighten up the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress your guests, serve individual slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce and a sprig of mint for color. You could also bake it in mini Bundt pans to make charming single-serving treats that look like a bakery specialty.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store leftover Pecan Praline Cake Recipe slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain freshness. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated, tightly covered, for up to 5 days.
Freezing
This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing its moist texture, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Reheating
If you prefer your cake slightly warm, let frozen slices thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven for 5 minutes. The praline glaze softens and becomes extra gooey and irresistible when warmed.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of frosting instead of coconut pecan?
While the coconut pecan frosting adds distinct flavor and moistness, you could substitute a vanilla or cream cheese frosting, but expect a slightly different taste profile. The pecan flavor will be less prominent without the coconut pecan frosting.
Is there a way to make this cake gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, look for a gluten-free butter pecan cake mix or bake a homemade gluten-free cake base. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well, especially processed products like frosting.
How can I make the praline glaze thicker?
If you prefer a thicker glaze, try simmering the butter and sweetened condensed milk mixture a little longer before adding pecans, but be careful not to burn it. Alternatively, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk slightly.
Can I add more pecans to the batter?
You certainly can increase the pecan quantity for added crunch, but going beyond 3/4 cup total may affect the cake’s texture slightly by making it denser.
What is the best pan to use for baking this cake?
Both the 9×13-inch baking dish and the 10-inch Bundt pan work wonderfully, but the Bundt pan creates a stunning presentation with more surface area for that praline glaze to cling to. Choose based on your desired look and serving style.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this irresistible Pecan Praline Cake Recipe in your back pocket, you’re all set to wow your friends and family with a dessert that feels both nostalgic and special. It’s quick, comforting, and packed with nutty, buttery goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Honestly, once you try this cake, it might just become your go-to celebration treat or a new seasonal favorite. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Pecan Praline Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Pecan Praline Cake is a delightful and moist dessert combining the rich flavors of butter pecan cake with a luscious coconut pecan frosting and a warm, buttery praline glaze. Perfect for any occasion, it offers a perfect balance of nutty sweetness and creamy texture.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box (15.25 oz) butter pecan cake mix
- 1 can (16 oz) coconut pecan frosting
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Praline Glaze
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a 10-inch Bundt pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix cake batter: In a large bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Using an electric mixer, beat the ingredients together until smooth and well incorporated, about 2 minutes.
- Add pecans: Gently fold in 1/2 cup of chopped pecans into the batter to distribute them evenly.
- Pour batter: Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish or Bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes if using a 9×13 pan or 50-55 minutes if using a Bundt pan. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack if using a Bundt pan.
- Prepare praline glaze: While the cake bakes or cools, melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and heat until warm, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the pan from heat and stir in 1/2 cup chopped pecans.
- Glaze and serve: Drizzle the warm praline glaze evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve this rich, nutty dessert for a perfect finish to any meal.
Notes
- You can choose between a 9×13-inch pan or a Bundt pan depending on your presentation preference.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before glazing for best results to avoid melting the glaze too much.
- The praline glaze is best served warm and drizzled right before serving to maintain its creamy texture.
- For extra crunch, reserve a few chopped pecans to sprinkle on top after glazing.
- Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
