Pecan Praline Cake

Indulge in the rich, nutty flavors of this Pecan Praline Cake, a decadent dessert featuring three layers of moist, fluffy white cake infused with the warmth of candied pecans. Each layer is soaked in a delicate pecan-flavored syrup, then enveloped in a luxurious spiked cream cheese frosting. This cake is a true Southern classic, perfect for special occasions or a delightful treat.

Ingredients

For the Praline Cream Cheese Filling:

• 1 package of Philadelphia cream cheese
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 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 pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups pecan pieces

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Praline Cream Cheese Filling:

In a mixing bowl, blend the cream cheese and softened butter using an electric hand mixer until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, beating the mixture for about 4 minutes until it is well combined and fluffy. Gently fold in the chopped pecans. Refrigerate the mixture slightly to allow it to firm up before frosting the cake.

2. Make the Praline Topping:

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the evaporated milk and granulated sugar, stirring until the ingredients are fully combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow it to cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and pecan pieces until well incorporated. Set aside to cool.

3. Assemble the Cake:

Using your preferred yellow cake recipe, bake three layers of cake. Allow them to cool completely. Place the first cake layer on a serving plate and generously spread the praline cream cheese filling over the top. Add the second cake layer and repeat the frosting process. Top with the third cake layer. Chill the assembled cake in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to firm up the layers. Once chilled, frost the sides and top of the cake with the remaining praline cream cheese filling. Return the cake to the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.

Serve and Enjoy!