If there’s one dessert recipe that perfectly encapsulates the warm, sweet spirit of the South, it’s the Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake. This enticingly rich dessert, packed with the delightful crunch of pecans and the rich sweetness of praline, is a true Southern staple. You’re about to embark on a culinary journey towards crafting this magical dessert in your own kitchen.
The Rich History of Pecan Praline
Before we delve into the recipe, it’s essential to appreciate the rich history behind pecan praline. This dessert is a classic concoction from the Southern United States, especially popular in the state of Louisiana. The delicious blend of pecans and brown sugar that defines praline has its roots in French cuisine but was adapted in the American South to feature local ingredients.
A Mouthwatering Dessert, A Southern Tradition
One bite of this Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake is sure to take your taste buds on a journey to the heart of the South. Every slice of this cake bursts with a smooth, buttery flavor paired with the nutty crunch of pecans, wrapped up in the sweet, caramelly essence of praline.
So, without further ado, let’s dive right into this incredible recipe.
Ingredients
To create this masterpiece, here are the ingredients you’ll need:
For the cake:
- 1 ½ cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the praline frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup whole milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Method
Firstly, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans evenly on a baking sheet and toast them for about 8-10 minutes, until they’re golden and aromatic. Let them cool.
For the cake, start by creaming the butter and sugar together in a large bowl until it’s light and fluffy. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vegetable oil, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the butter mixture, stirring well after each addition. Once the batter is smooth, fold in half of the toasted pecans.
Pour the batter into a greased and floured 13×9-inch baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake cools, start on your praline frosting. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and milk, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for about a minute, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Remove from the heat and whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth.
Pour the frosting over the cooled cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining toasted pecans over the top. Let the frosting set before slicing and serving.
Pairing Your Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making the delicious Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake, let’s explore how best to enjoy it. A cake as rich and decadent as this one deserves to be paired with the right beverage or even a complementary dessert.
Coffee
The robust, earthy notes of a well-brewed coffee perfectly balance the sweet, nutty flavors of the Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake. The bitterness of the coffee offsets the sweetness of the cake, making every bite even more enjoyable.
Tea
For the tea enthusiasts, a classic black tea or even a spiced chai could offer a comforting and enjoyable experience. The spicy notes from the chai can add an extra depth of flavor when enjoyed with the cake.
Ice Cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream could be the perfect partner for your Pecan Praline Sheet Cake. The cold, creamy ice cream will not only help to balance the richness of the cake but will also bring out its nutty and caramelly flavors.
Storing Your Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake
To ensure your cake stays fresh and delicious, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should keep for up to 4 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices and defrosting them as needed. To freeze, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Stored like this, the cake can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet and satisfying, the Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake is a dessert that’s sure to impress. Its rich, nutty flavors, combined with the sweet, caramelly goodness of the praline frosting, create a dessert experience that you and your loved ones won’t forget. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite!
