★Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup whole milk
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Filling:
1 cup chopped pecans
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Caramel Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 cup packed light brown sugar
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)
★Instructions
- Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- Add the softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until well blended and smooth.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Make the Pecan Filling:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to bubble.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Allow the filling to cool slightly before spreading it between the cake layers.
- Prepare the Caramel Frosting:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Remove from heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
- Gradually beat in the powdered sugar until smooth.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the pecan filling over the top.
- Place the second cake layer on top of the filling.
- Frost the top and sides of the cake with the caramel frosting.
- Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top as a garnish.
- Serve:
- Allow the cake to set for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.
Enjoy!