
Pecan Praline Cake
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Pecan Praline Cake, a dessert that promises to delight your taste buds with every bite. This recipe combines creamy praline cream cheese filling, a rich praline topping, and layers of moist yellow cake for a truly unforgettable dessert experience.
Ingredients
- For the Praline Cream Cheese Filling:
- 1 package Philadelphia cream cheese
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4 tablespoons chopped pecans
- 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
- For the Praline Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup softened butter
- 1 1/2 cups pecan pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the Praline Cream Cheese Filling:
- Blend Philadelphia cream cheese and butter until smooth using an electric hand-mixer.
- Add vanilla extract and powdered sugar, beating for 4 minutes until well blended.
- Stir in chopped pecans, then allow the filling to slightly chill before frosting the cake.
- Make the Praline Topping:
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter with evaporated milk and granulated sugar, stirring until thoroughly combined.
- Bring the mixture to a slow boil, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let it cook without stirring for about 15 minutes until it thickens.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and pecan pieces until fully mixed. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Use your favorite yellow cake recipe to bake three layers. Let them cool completely.
- Spread a generous amount of praline cream cheese frosting on the first cake layer, then add the second layer and repeat. Place the third cake layer on top.
- Chill and Frost the Cake:
- Refrigerate the assembled cake for 30 minutes to set.
- Frost the sides and top of the cake with the remaining praline cream cheese frosting.
- Return the cake to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
Ensure your Pecan Praline Cake stays fresh and delicious with these helpful serving and storage tips. From presentation to preservation, here’s how to make the most of this decadent dessert:
Serving Tips:
- Presentation: Present your Pecan Praline Cake on a beautiful cake stand or platter to showcase its layers and enticing frosting.
- Slice with Care: Use a sharp knife dipped in hot water and wiped clean between slices for clean cuts through the layers.
- Garnish Ideas: Garnish each slice with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of elegance.
- Pairing Suggestions: Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the rich flavors of the cake.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Pecan Praline Cake in an airtight cake container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual slices of Pecan Praline Cake. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
- Avoid Moisture: Keep the cake away from direct sunlight and moisture to prevent the frosting from becoming too soft.
- Reheating: For a fresh-from-the-oven taste, briefly warm slices in the microwave or oven on low heat. This helps to revive the flavors and texture.
Bonus Tips:
- Portion Control: Cut slices of Pecan Praline Cake into smaller portions for a delightful treat without overwhelming sweetness.
- Special Occasions: Serve this cake for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, or dinner parties to impress your guests with its luxurious flavor.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure your Pecan Praline Cake remains a delectable treat from the first slice to the last. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or saving some for later, these tips will help preserve its flavor and texture for a delightful dessert experience every time.