Praline Cake

12 servings Total: 1 h 8 m Beginner
5.0/5 (1)
Praline Cake
A simple Cajun cake with a buttery brown sugar and pecan topping that gets broiled to create a caramelized praline crust. This shortcut version starts with a cake mix but finishes with that authentic Louisiana praline flavor.

Ingredients

12 servings
  • 1 box yellow cake mix
  • 1 box light brown sugar or 2 1/3 cups
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 block butter
  • 1 tsp vanilla
  • 1 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Bake yellow cake mix per box instructions and let cool completely.
  2. Mix brown sugar, flour and eggs in melted butter in a saucepan. Cook for 3 minutes over low/medium heat, stirring constantly.
  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and nuts. Pour and spread the praline topping over cooled cake.
  4. Put back in oven at 400 degrees for 8 minutes until the topping is bubbly and caramelized. Let cool before serving.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Why is my topping running off the sides of the cake?

A: Make sure your cake is completely cooled before adding the topping. If it's still warm, the butter in the topping will melt too quickly and run off.

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Yes, this cake keeps well covered at room temperature for 2-3 days. The praline topping actually gets better as it sits and soaks into the cake slightly.

Tips and Techniques

Watch the topping carefully during the final 8-minute bake - ovens vary and you want it bubbly and caramelized but not burnt. The topping should be golden brown and set.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • yellow cake mix: white or butter cake mix
  • pecans: walnuts

Equipment Needed

  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • saucepan
  • mixing bowl