Description

Few desserts capture the warmth and festivity of the holiday season quite like the Christmas Pecan Praline Cake. This decadent, three-layer masterpiece combines the buttery richness of pecans with a creamy filling and a caramel-like praline topping that melts in your mouth. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this cake is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a stunning centerpiece for any festive table. Its versatility allows for creative seasonal touches, making it an unforgettable addition to your Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients

• 3 layers of yellow cake (homemade or store-bought)
• Filling:
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• Praline Topping:
• 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
• Festive Garnishes (Optional):
• Red and green sprinkles
• Sugared cranberries
• Crushed peppermint candy

Preparation Method

Start by preparing the filling. Beat the cream cheese and butter together in a large mixing bowl until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans for a nutty, flavorful finish. Once combined, chill the filling in the refrigerator to firm up while you prepare the rest of the cake.

For the praline topping, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sugar and evaporated milk, whisking constantly to prevent the mixture from burning. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes. The mixture should thicken into a glossy, caramel-like consistency. Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans, and let it cool slightly. The topping should still be pourable but not too hot to handle.

To assemble the cake, place the first layer of yellow cake on your serving plate. Spread an even layer of the cream cheese filling on top, then repeat with the second and third cake layers. Once the layers are stacked and filled, chill the cake in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to help it set. After chilling, pour the slightly cooled praline topping over the cake, letting it drip down the sides for a rustic, homemade look.

For a festive touch, garnish the cake with red and green sprinkles, sugared cranberries, or a dusting of powdered sugar to mimic freshly fallen snow. You can also add holiday-themed cake toppers for an extra dose of seasonal cheer.

Tips and Conclusion

To add a cozy holiday twist, mix 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the praline topping. For a nut-free variation, substitute chopped pecans with toasted coconut flakes or omit them entirely for a simpler caramel finish. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.

The Christmas Pecan Praline Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of everything we love about the holiday season. From its rich, buttery layers to the crunchy sweetness of the praline topping, every bite is a reminder of the joy and warmth that comes with sharing good food with loved ones.

If this cake has inspired your festive spirit, explore more holiday recipes on our site, like our Spiced Gingerbread Cookies or Eggnog Cheesecake. Don’t forget to share your creations with us and spread the holiday cheer!