Texas Heritage Burnt Sugar Cake 🍰

Introduction:

This Texas Heritage Burnt Sugar Cake recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it was once entered in a local cooking contest and proudly claimed the first runner-up position in the dessert category! 🏆 Originally inspired by a recipe from the Imperial Sugar Company in Sugar Land, Texas, I’ve added my own twist to tailor it to my taste buds. This decadent dessert is perfect for weeknight indulgence, pleasing large groups, and satisfying sweet cravings with its rich flavors and delightful texture. Let’s dive into the culinary journey of creating this exquisite burnt sugar cake!

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1 cup pecans
• 1 1/2 cups butter
• 3/4 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Confectioners’ sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Burnt Sugar Syrup:

• In a small heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until it turns into a light caramel color, stirring frequently to ensure even melting.

2. Incorporate Boiling Water:

• Once the sugar is caramelized, remove the saucepan from the heat and slowly pour in 1/2 cup of boiling water along with praline liqueur, stirring continuously until well blended.

3. Refrigerate the Syrup:

• Transfer the burnt sugar syrup to a container and refrigerate it to cool while you prepare the rest of the cake batter.

4. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius) to ensure it’s ready when the cake batter is prepared.

5. Prepare the Cake Pan:

• Grease and flour a 9-inch fluted tube pan or bundt cake pan, ensuring the cake releases smoothly after baking.

6. Toast the Pecans:

• In a dry medium-sized skillet over very low heat, toast the pecans, stirring frequently for about 3-5 minutes until they turn golden brown and emit a delightful aroma. Set aside to cool, reserving 1/2 cup of pecans for topping.

7. Mix the Cake Batter:

• In a large bowl, using a mixer at medium speed, combine the butter, remaining granulated sugar, cooled burnt sugar syrup, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Mix for approximately 4 minutes until the batter is thoroughly blended and smooth.

8. Incorporate Toasted Pecans:

• Stir the cooled 1 cup of toasted pecans into the cake batter until evenly distributed, adding a delightful crunch to every bite.

9. Bake the Cake:

• Pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured cake pan, spreading it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating that the cake is perfectly baked.

10. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes to set slightly before carefully removing it from the pan and transferring it to the wire rack to cool completely.

11. Sprinkle with Confectioners’ Sugar:

• Once cooled, sprinkle the top of the cake with confectioners’ sugar for an added touch of sweetness, if desired.

12. Drizzle with Burnt Sugar:

• In a small heavy saucepan over medium heat, melt the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar until it reaches a light caramel color, stirring frequently. Using a spoon, drizzle the burnt sugar over the cake in an artistic pattern, adding visual appeal and extra flavor.

13. Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of toasted pecans over the top of the cake and allow it to stand for about 5 minutes to cool and set the burnt sugar drizzle.

14. Enjoy!

• Slice the Texas Heritage Burnt Sugar Cake into generous portions and serve it to delighted guests or savor it as a special treat for yourself. This indulgent dessert is sure to impress with its rich flavors and nostalgic charm, making every bite a memorable experience. Enjoy the taste of Texas heritage in every mouthwatering slice! 🤠🍰