Pecan Praline Cake

Pecan Praline Cake

Ingredients:

Praline Cream Cheese Filling:

• 1 (8 oz) package Philadelphia Cream Cheese
• 1/2 cup butter
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup finely chopped pecans (adjust to preference)

Praline Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
• 2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups pecan pieces
• Extra evaporated milk (if needed to thin)

Instructions:

Praline Cream Cheese Filling:

1. Use a mixer to blend cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating at low speed until well blended. Add vanilla extract.
3. Stir in the chopped pecans. Allow the mixture to chill slightly before frosting the cake.

Praline Topping:

1. In a saucepan on medium heat, melt the butter, sugar, and evaporated milk. Stir to combine thoroughly.
2. Bring the mixture to a slow boil, then reduce heat to medium/low. Let it cook for about 15 minutes without stirring.
3. After 15 minutes, stir the mixture, scraping the bottom and sides as it thickens.
4. Cook while stirring continuously (to avoid scorching) for about 10 more minutes. Add vanilla extract, stir until combined.
5. Remove from heat. Stir in pecan pieces, ensuring they’re mixed thoroughly. If the mixture thickens too much, add small amounts of evaporated milk (2 tablespoons at a time) to thin it.
6. Allow the mixture to cool for about five minutes before frosting the cake. Ensure it’s warm, not overly cool, for the frosting.

Assembling the Cake:

1. Prepare your favorite yellow cake recipe into three 9-inch layers. Let them cool completely before assembling.
2. Once cooled, spread your desired amount of praline cream cheese frosting between the layers of cake.
3. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before frosting the sides and top.
4. Frost the sides of the cooled cake first, then frost the top.

Enjoy your scrumptious Pecan Praline Cake!