Preheat the oven: Begin your adventure by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or spray a 9x13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
Mix the cake ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, Coconut Pecan Frosting, eggs, canola (or coconut) oil, and half-and-half. Mix everything together until combined, and ensure no lumps remain.
Add the pecans: Fold in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed in the batter.
Pour and bake: Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the glaze: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and heat it until thoroughly warmed. Add the remaining chopped pecans, stirring again to combine before removing from heat.
Glaze the cake: Once the cake is baked, let it cool for a bit, then drizzle or spread the pecan glaze over the warm cake.
What to Serve Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake With
Looking for the perfect pairing for your Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake? This delectable dish goes wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Fancy a drink? A glass of sweet tea or a warm cup of coffee will complement the cake's sweetness beautifully. Mix and match with your favorite sides to create a delightful dessert spread!
Top Tips for Perfecting Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake
Ingredient Substitutions: If you don't have half-and-half, you can use milk or cream; just keep the texture in mind.
Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake, as baking times may vary depending on your oven. It’s better to check a couple of minutes earlier.
Don’t Skip the Glaze: The pecan glaze takes this cake to the next level! It adds richness and keeps the cake moist—this is one step you won’t want to skip.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If, by chance, you have any leftovers (which is rare!), store your Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze slices for future enjoyment—just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds and enjoy a warm slice all over again!
In conclusion, the Southern Pecan Praline Sheet Cake embodies the warmth and comfort of Southern cooking with its moist texture and delightful glaze. This recipe is not only delicious but also simple, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion! So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make a cake that will surely earn a spot in your recipe book. Happy baking!