Step 1: Make the Cake Layers
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk:
- With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in Pecans:
- Gently fold in the finely chopped pecans.
- Bake the Cakes:
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Filling
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil and Thicken:
- Continue to boil for 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and coarsely chopped pecans.
- Cool the Filling:
- Allow the caramel filling to cool to room temperature before using it to fill the cake layers.
Step 3: Make the Caramel Frosting
- Prepare the Caramel Base:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
- Boil and Cool:
- Boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Mix the Frosting:
- Transfer the caramel mixture to a mixing bowl. Gradually beat in the sifted powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
- Layer the Cakes:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the caramel filling over the top. Repeat with the second cake layer and the remaining caramel filling. Place the third cake layer on top.
- Frost the Cake:
- Spread a thin layer of caramel frosting over the entire cake to create a crumb coat. Refrigerate the cake for 15-20 minutes to set the crumb coat.
- Once set, apply the remaining caramel frosting to the cake, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Garnish:
- If desired, garnish the top of the cake with additional chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tips for Success
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the butter, eggs, and buttermilk, are at room temperature for the best results.
- Proper Cooling: Allow the cake layers and caramel filling to cool completely before assembling to prevent the filling from melting and sliding.
- Consistency: If the caramel frosting becomes too thick, add a tablespoon of heavy cream to achieve the desired consistency.
Variations
- Chocolate Caramel Cake: Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cake layers for a chocolatey twist.
- Spiced Pecan Cake: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg to the cake batter for a spiced version.
- Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt over the caramel filling and frosting for a salted caramel flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- With Coffee: Pair a slice of this rich cake with a cup of coffee or espresso.
- Special Occasions: Serve at birthdays, holidays, or any celebration for a show-stopping dessert.
- Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent treat.
Conclusion
Southern Pecan Caramel Cake is a decadent dessert that brings together the flavors of buttery cake, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans. This detailed recipe ensures a perfect result, with every bite delivering the comfort and sweetness of Southern baking. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful cake with family and friends.