Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake: A Sweet, Nutty Slice of Heaven

If you’re a fan of decadent desserts with a rich, nutty flavor, then Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake is about to become your new go-to recipe. This delightful cake combines the irresistible flavors of butter pecan and coconut with a smooth, buttery glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake

First, let’s talk about what makes this cake so special. The combination of the butter pecan cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, and the butter pecan glaze creates layers of rich, comforting flavors that are both indulgent and satisfying. The cake itself is wonderfully moist, thanks to the addition of half-and-half (a creamier alternative to water), which boosts the flavor to another level. The chopped pecans throughout the cake and in the glaze add a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft texture of the cake.

If you’ve ever tried pecan pralines, you already know how addictive that caramelized, nutty flavor can be. This cake brings all those familiar notes but in a more shareable, easy-to-make format. So, whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just starting to explore the world of sweets, this Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake is simple, yet extraordinary.

The Best Ingredients for a Perfect Cake

When it comes to baking, choosing quality ingredients can make all the difference. While this recipe does use some shortcuts, like the Betty Crocker cake mix and coconut pecan frosting, these ingredients are the key to the cake’s amazing flavor and texture. Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need:

Cake Ingredients:

• 1 box of Betty Crocker Butter Pecan Cake Mix: This is the star of the show, bringing that rich butter pecan flavor right to your cake. It’s also super convenient, saving you time without sacrificing flavor.
• 16 oz. can of Betty Crocker Coconut Pecan Frosting: This frosting adds both sweetness and a hint of coconut that works beautifully with the pecans. You could make homemade frosting, but this store-bought version adds the perfect touch of creaminess and texture.
• 4 large eggs: Eggs are essential for binding the cake and giving it structure, so don’t skip this ingredient.
• 3/4 cup canola or coconut oil: Oil helps the cake stay moist, and using coconut oil adds a subtle coconut flavor that complements the frosting.
• 1 cup half-and-half: This is where the flavor really shines. Using half-and-half instead of water makes the cake richer and creamier.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans: These will be folded into the cake batter, adding crunch and an extra layer of pecan flavor that’s perfect with every bite.

Butter Pecan Glaze:

• 14 oz. can of sweetened condensed milk: The base of the glaze, this rich, velvety milk gives the sauce a luscious, caramel-like flavor.
• 3 tablespoons butter: Butter brings richness and depth to the glaze, making it smooth and glossy.
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans: These pecans will toast up slightly in the glaze, giving the sauce an added nutty flavor and texture.

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, let’s walk through how to make this Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake from scratch.

Step-by-Step Directions: How to Make Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have the oven fully heated before you pop the cake in to ensure even baking.
2. Grease or spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. You could also line it with parchment paper, but greasing it is the easiest way to go.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine all of the cake ingredients, except for the chopped pecans. This includes the cake mix, eggs, oil, half-and-half, and the coconut pecan frosting. Use an electric mixer to blend everything until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
4. Stir in the chopped pecans by hand, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

5. Pour the cake batter into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The exact time will vary depending on your oven, so be sure to start checking at around 40 minutes.
7. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Butter Pecan Glaze

8. While the cake is cooling, prepare the butter pecan glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
9. Add the sweetened condensed milk to the melted butter, stirring well. Bring it to a simmer, but don’t let it boil.
10. Once the milk and butter are fully combined and heated, stir in the chopped pecans. Keep stirring for a minute or two, until the pecans are coated in the glaze.
11. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the glaze to cool slightly before pouring it over the cake.

Step 4: Glaze and Serve

12. Pour the butter pecan glaze over the cooled cake. You can spoon it over individual slices for a more controlled presentation, or just spread it evenly over the entire cake for a more rustic look. Either way, the result will be a decadent layer of glaze covering every bite.

Step 5: Enjoy!

13. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before serving, allowing it to firm up slightly. Then, slice and serve. You’ll be treated to a soft, buttery cake with a smooth, nutty glaze and the perfect crunch of toasted pecans.

Tips for Success

• Don’t overmix the batter: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a denser cake.
• Use fresh pecans: For the best flavor, toast your pecans slightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the batter or glaze. This enhances their nutty taste.
• Don’t skip the half-and-half: While you can use water in place of half-and-half, the richness of half-and-half really enhances the flavor of the cake and makes it extra moist.
• Adjust the glaze to your liking: If you want a thicker glaze, let it cook a little longer to reduce, or simply add more pecans for a chunkier finish.

Why This Cake is Perfect for Any Occasion

This Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake is ideal for just about any celebration. The large 9×13-inch pan size makes it perfect for parties, gatherings, or potlucks. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, taking it to a church event, or simply baking it for a weekend treat, it’s sure to impress.

The best part is that despite its rich flavor and texture, this cake is surprisingly simple to make. There’s no complicated frosting work, no need for multiple layers or fancy piping skills. Just mix, bake, and glaze, and you’ll have a showstopper dessert ready to enjoy.

Southern pecan praline cakes are a staple in many Southern kitchens, and this recipe is a great way to bring a little bit of that Southern charm to your home. The combination of buttery cake, sweet and creamy frosting, and a luscious glaze will transport you to a place of pure indulgence.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to wow your friends and family with a delicious and easy-to-make dessert, this Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake is an absolute must-try. With its rich flavors, moist texture, and nutty glaze, it’s bound to become a favorite at any gathering. Plus, it’s so simple to prepare, you’ll be tempted to make it again and again. So grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of Southern sweetness!