If you love classic Southern desserts, the Buttery Pecan Praline Sheet Cake is a must-try. This decadent cake features a moist, buttery base topped with a rich pecan praline frosting that melts in your mouth, creating a sweet, nutty, and irresistible treat. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any special occasion, this sheet cake combines simplicity with indulgent flavor.

Unlike layer cakes, a sheet cake is easy to make, serves a crowd, and showcases that beloved Southern praline topping in every bite. With its buttery texture, crunchy pecans, and sweet caramel-like frosting, it’s the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves Southern-inspired sweets.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect Buttery Pecan Praline Sheet Cake, along with tips, variations, storage, and serving suggestions.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

Moist, Buttery Cake Base – Rich flavor and soft crumb make every bite comforting.
Pecan Praline Topping – Sweet, caramelized, and nutty frosting with plenty of crunch.
Serves a Crowd – Sheet cake style is perfect for family gatherings or parties.

Southern Classic – Brings the charm of Southern desserts to your table.
Simple Ingredients – Pantry staples come together for a bakery-quality dessert.

What Makes a Pecan Praline Sheet Cake Special?

A pecan praline sheet cake is distinct because of its topping: a buttery, brown sugar-based praline glaze loaded with toasted pecans. Unlike frosting that’s fluffy or whipped, this topping sets slightly, giving the cake a sticky, crunchy finish that’s full of caramelized flavor.

The sheet cake format ensures that every slice gets a perfect portion of cake and praline topping.

Ingredients for Buttery Pecan Praline Sheet Cake

For the Cake

2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups granulated sugar

1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt

1 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup buttermilk
4 large eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

For the Pecan Praline Topping

1 cup unsalted butter
1 cup brown sugar, packed

1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups chopped pecans

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

9×13-inch baking pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk and spatula

Saucepan
Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula

How to Make Buttery Pecan Praline Sheet Cake

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, combine melted butter, buttermilk, eggs, and vanilla.

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Don’t overmix.
Pour batter into prepared pan and spread evenly.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Remove from oven and let cool slightly while preparing the topping.

Step 4: Make the Pecan Praline Topping

In a medium saucepan, combine butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream.
Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture begins to bubble and thicken (about 3–5 minutes).

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.

Step 5: Pour Topping Over Cake

Spread the praline mixture evenly over the warm cake.

Allow the cake to cool completely, so the topping sets slightly.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once cooled, cut into squares or rectangles. Serve slightly warm for gooey topping or at room temperature for firmer praline.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Pecan Praline Cake

Toast your pecans before adding to the topping for extra flavor.
Do not overcook the praline or it may become too hard.

Cool slightly before pouring the topping on the cake to prevent it from soaking in too much.
Use high-quality butter – it enhances both the cake and praline flavor.

Delicious Variations

Chocolate Pecan Praline Cake

Add 1/2 cup cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolatey version.

Maple Pecan Cake

Replace brown sugar with maple sugar or add 1 tsp maple extract for a warm flavor.

Coconut Pecan Praline Cake

Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the topping for a tropical twist.

Mini Sheet Cakes

Divide the batter into smaller pans for individual servings or mini cakes.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.
Drizzle with chocolate sauce or caramel for extra indulgence.
Perfect for brunch, dessert tables, or holiday gatherings.

Pairs beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or sweet tea.

Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for 2–3 days.
Refrigerator: Keep covered for up to 1 week.

Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make the cake in advance?
Yes, bake the cake and prepare the praline topping separately. Assemble before serving.

Q: Can I use a boxed cake mix?
Absolutely. Use an orange, vanilla, or butter cake mix and follow package instructions.

Q: Can I replace pecans with other nuts?
Yes, walnuts or almonds work well if you prefer.

Q: How do I keep the topping from getting too hard?
Pour the praline while the cake is still warm and serve slightly warm if a softer topping is desired.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice, 12 slices)

Calories: 450

Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Sugar: 32g

Protein: 5g

Final Thoughts

The Buttery Pecan Praline Sheet Cake is a perfect combination of Southern charm, nutty sweetness, and buttery richness. With a moist cake base and gooey pecan praline topping, it’s a dessert that satisfies both chocolate and caramel lovers alike.

Whether you’re serving it for holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make and incredibly delicious. Once you try it, it will likely become a staple in your dessert rotation.