Hey there, friends! Let me tell you about this amazing Pecan Praline Coffee Cake recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even just as a snack with your favorite cup of coffee (or tea!).
It’s buttery, moist, and full of warm cinnamon flavor, with a crunchy pecan praline topping that’s out of this world.
I’ve made this for family brunches, and let me tell you—people keep coming back for “just one more slice.” Even the kids love it because of the sweet topping (though I suspect it’s also because they can sneak little bites of the pecans while I’m not looking).
This coffee cake is super easy to make, so don’t let the fancy name fool you. Plus, your kitchen will smell incredible while it’s baking—like you’ve been transported to a cozy little bakery. Let’s jump right in!
What You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious coffee cake:
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Pecan Praline Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
For the Glaze (Optional, but so worth it!)
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Pro Tips
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: When you combine the wet and dry ingredients, stir just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can make your cake dense instead of light and tender.
- Chop Pecans Evenly: Smaller pieces will caramelize beautifully with the sugar for the topping, so try to keep them evenly chopped.
- Line Your Pan: Use parchment paper or grease the pan really well. It makes removing the cake a breeze!
- Let It Cool Slightly Before Glazing: If you’re adding the glaze, let the cake cool for at least 15-20 minutes so the glaze doesn’t melt right off.
- Get the Kids Involved: Let them help sprinkle the topping—it’s fun and makes them feel like part of the baking process!
Tools You’ll Need
- Mixing bowls (at least 2)
- Whisk and spatula
- 9×9-inch baking pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper (optional)
Substitutions & Variations
- No Sour Cream? Use plain Greek yogurt instead—it works like a charm.
- Make it Nut-Free: Swap pecans for rolled oats or skip the topping entirely for a simple coffee cake.
- Add Fruit: Mix in a handful of diced apples or blueberries for an extra fruity twist!
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the topping for a cozy spice flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
- You can make the cake a day in advance and store it, tightly wrapped, at room temperature. Add the glaze just before serving for the freshest taste!
- The pecan topping can also be prepped ahead and stored separately in an airtight container.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prep the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line your 9×9-inch pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla until smooth.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently mix until just combined.
5. Make the Pecan Praline Topping
In a small bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.
6. Assemble the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and evenly sprinkle the pecan praline topping over it.
7. Bake
Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Make the Glaze (Optional)
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- You can also freeze it! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Just thaw and enjoy when the craving hits.
Conclusion
And there you have it—your very own Pecan Praline Coffee Cake that’s sure to wow anyone lucky enough to snag a slice.
It’s sweet, crunchy, buttery, and perfect for just about any occasion.
