Christmas Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

If you are craving a show-stopping dessert that combines the warm, cozy flavors of cinnamon, pecans, and caramel, look no further than this Christmas Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe. It perfectly captures the essence of all your favorite holiday treats in a single, moist and tender cake that slices beautifully and tastes like a festive hug. With swirls of cinnamon sugar and crunchy pecans enveloped in a rich, buttery crumb, topped off with luscious caramel sauce, this cake is pure magic for your taste buds and an irresistible centerpiece for any celebration.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Christmas Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role—from the fluffy crumb and warm cinnamon swirl to the crunchy pecans and sweet caramel drizzle—which means you get maximum festive delight with minimal fuss.

• All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake’s tender yet sturdy crumb.
• Baking powder: Helps the cake rise light and fluffy without heaviness.
• Salt: Enhances sweetness and balances flavors perfectly.
• Cinnamon: Brings that quintessential warmth and spice to the swirl.
• Unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture for a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter evenly, giving a gentle caramelization.
• Cream cheese, softened: Adds a subtle tang and creamy softness to the cake base.
• Eggs: Bind everything together and contribute to the cake’s moist body.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses a fragrant sweetness that complements the cinnamon.
• Buttermilk: Tenderizes the crumb and adds a slight tangy depth.
• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle throughout for delightful crunch and a nutty flavor.
• Caramel sauce (for drizzling): The final decadent touch that ties all flavors cohesively.
• Brown sugar: Used in the cinnamon swirl to deepen the sweet spice notes.
• Ground cinnamon (for cinnamon swirl): Creates that iconic cinnamon roll swirl inside the cake.
• Butter, melted (for cinnamon swirl): Helps the cinnamon sugar stick and swirl luxuriously in the batter.

How to Make Christmas Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Grease and flour a 10-inch bundt or tube pan thoroughly to ensure your beautifully baked cake slides out perfectly without sticking—this helps maintain the swirled pattern and crisp edges.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This blend is the backbone for your cake’s tender crumb and spicy warmth. Set it aside for the later assembly.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Cream Cheese

Using a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and cream cheese together until light, smooth, and creamy. This step introduces air, making the cake delightfully fluffy while infusing a luscious richness from the cream cheese.

Step 4: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

One at a time, beat in the eggs fully to maintain a smooth batter without lumps, then stir in the vanilla extract. The vanilla brings an aromatic sweetness that pairs flawlessly with the cinnamon and caramel notes.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet

Alternate adding the dry ingredient mixture and buttermilk in three parts, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps the cake tender and moist.

Step 6: Prepare the Cinnamon and Pecan Swirls

In a small bowl, blend brown sugar with cinnamon to make the cinnamon sugar swirl mixture. In another bowl, mix the melted butter with the chopped pecans—this nutty butter mixture will make your swirls extra flavorful and crunchy.

Step 7: Layer and Swirl the Batter

Pour half the cake batter into your prepared pan, then evenly sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar followed by half of the pecan mixture. Use a knife to gently swirl the cinnamon sugar and pecans into the batter for that stunning cinnamon roll effect. Repeat with the remaining batter and topping mixtures, swirling again carefully.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden and Set

Bake in your preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before turning it onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Drizzle and Serve

Finally, once your cake has cooled, generously drizzle the top with caramel sauce. Each slice reveals the intricate swirls and crunchy pecans beneath that sticky-sweet glaze making every bite a joyous indulgence.

How to Serve Christmas Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra festive look, sprinkle some finely chopped pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar over the caramel drizzle. You can also add a few fresh cranberries or edible gold flakes to amp up the holiday sparkle and give your cake that wow factor.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a warm cup of spiced chai, hot cocoa, or even a cold glass of milk to balance the sweetness. Add fresh fruit like sliced pears or a citrus salad to brighten your serving table with contrasting fresh flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual slices alongside a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra dose of indulgence. For holiday parties, cut bite-sized squares and serve on a festive platter with caramel sauce for dipping—perfect for sharing and sampling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Christmas Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe fresh by storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigeration is best to preserve the moisture and prevent the caramel from becoming too sticky.

Freezing

You can freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving, then warm slightly to regain that fresh-baked softness and caramel goodness.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers warm, microwave individual slices for 20-30 seconds or heat in a low oven (about 300°F) wrapped in foil for 10-15 minutes. This will melt the caramel slightly and refresh the tender crumb and pecan crunch.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce for this cake?

Absolutely! Store-bought caramel sauce works wonderfully and saves time, but homemade caramel can add a special touch if you want to make your dessert extra-special.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free or vegan?

Yes, but you need to substitute carefully. Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cream cheese, and a milk alternative like almond or oat milk. For eggs, a flaxseed or chia seed substitute can help bind the batter.

Can I make this recipe without nuts?

Definitely. Simply omit the pecans or replace them with your favorite seeds or dried fruit to accommodate nut allergies or personal preferences without losing much flavor.

What’s the best way to get the swirl effect in the cake?

The key is layering half the batter, cinnamon sugar, and nuts, then swirling gently with a knife before adding the remaining layers and repeating. Don’t over-mix or the swirls won’t be as distinct.

How far in advance can I make this cake before Christmas?

This cake is best made 1 to 2 days ahead for optimal freshness and flavor. Just be sure to store it properly to keep it moist, then drizzle the caramel sauce just before serving.

Final Thoughts

There is truly something heartwarming and joyous about indulging in this Christmas Pecan Caramel Cinnamon Roll Cake Recipe, whether it’s for a holiday brunch, dessert, or a special treat to share with loved ones. It brings all the familiar festive flavors together in a beautiful, simple cake that’s easy to make yet feels luxurious. I can’t wait for you to try it out and watch it become a new holiday favorite in your home!

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