Best Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake – 7 Reasons to Love This Moist & Gooey Dessert!

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If you’re a fan of rich, moist cakes with warm spices, sweet caramel, and crunchy pecans, then you’re in for a treat! This Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake is an absolute dream—soft, flavorful carrot cake topped with a luscious caramel pecan glaze that seeps into every bite. It’s a perfect dessert for special occasions or just because you deserve something indulgent!

Let’s dive into the recipe so you can whip up this heavenly treat in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake Recipe

  • Moist & Flavorful – Thanks to freshly grated carrots and the perfect balance of cinnamon and vanilla
  • Gooey Caramel Pecan Topping – A rich, buttery caramel with crunchy pecans that takes this cake over the top
  • Simple & Homemade – No complicated steps, just wholesome ingredients baked to perfection
  • Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a weekend treat, this cake always impresses

Ingredients

Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake

For the Cake

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

For the Caramel Pecan Topping

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Tools You’ll Need

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer or whisk
  • 9×13-inch baking pan
  • Saucepan
  • Cooling rack

How to Make Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake

Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg
  3. In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract
  4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined
  5. Fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top
  2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
  3. Allow the cake to cool in the pan while you make the caramel pecan topping

Step 3: Make the Caramel Pecan Topping

  1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbly
  2. Slowly add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, stirring continuously until smooth
  3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans

Step 4: Assemble & Serve

  1. Pour the warm caramel pecan topping evenly over the slightly cooled cake. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to soak in
  2. Slice and serve warm, or allow it to fully cool before cutting

What to Serve with This Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake

  • Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of vanilla makes this cake extra indulgent
  • Whipped Cream – Light, airy, and a perfect complement to the caramel topping
  • A Hot Cup of Coffee or Tea – The warm spices in the cake pair beautifully with a cozy drink

Tips for the Best Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake

Use Fresh Carrots – Grate them yourself for the best moisture and flavor
Don’t Overmix – Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and tender
Let the Caramel Cool Slightly – Pouring it while it’s too hot can make it soak in too much

How to Store & Freeze

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days
  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days for longer freshness

Freezing

  • Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months
  • Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a warm treat!
Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance and add the caramel pecan topping just before serving for the freshest flavor

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds work great if you don’t have pecans

Can I make this without pineapple?

Yes, but the crushed pineapple adds extra moisture and sweetness. If you omit it, consider adding an extra tablespoon of oil

Final Thoughts Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake

This Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake is a masterpiece of flavors—moist, spiced carrot cake topped with rich, buttery caramel and crunchy pecans. Every bite is a delight! Whether you’re making it for a gathering or just treating yourself, it’s guaranteed to be a hit

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a review, share a picture on Pinterest, or tag me on social media. Happy baking! 🎂✨

More Delicious Recipes to Try Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake

🍍🥥 Coconut Pineapple Banana Bread – A tropical twist on classic banana bread
🍠🍞 Sweet Potato Bread – Soft, moist, and packed with warm spices
🥬🧀 Crustless Spinach Quiche – A savory, low-carb dish perfect for brunch

Print
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Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake

Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake – The Perfectly Moist Cake with a Gooey Caramel Pecan Topping


  • Author: Poulef
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Caramel Pecan Carrot Heaven Cake is everything its name promises—moist, spiced carrot cake topped with a rich, gooey caramel pecan glaze that seeps into every bite. Sweet, nutty, and irresistibly soft, this cake is perfect for holidays, birthdays, or anytime you crave a truly special dessert. One bite, and you’ll see why this is a crowd favorite!


Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup vegetable oil
  • 3 large eggs
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 cups grated carrots
  • 1/2 cup crushed pineapple, drained
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

For the Caramel Pecan Topping:

 

  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

  • Preheat & Prep – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set aside.
  • Mix Dry Ingredients – In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Mix Wet Ingredients – In another bowl, beat the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until combined. Add the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Combine & Fold – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Gently fold in the grated carrots, crushed pineapple, and chopped pecans.
  • Bake – Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smooth the top, and bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool slightly.
  • Make the Caramel Pecan Topping – In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and cook for 2-3 minutes until bubbly. Slowly add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and salt, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped pecans.

 

  • Assemble & Serve – Pour the warm caramel pecan topping evenly over the slightly cooled cake. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Notes

  • For an extra moist cake, use freshly grated carrots rather than pre-shredded store-bought ones.
  • If you love extra crunch, toast the pecans before adding them to the cake and topping.
  • No pineapple? Swap it with unsweetened applesauce for a similar texture boost.
  • Make-ahead tip: Bake the cake a day before, then add the caramel pecan topping before serving for ultimate freshness.
  • Freezing tip: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or microwave for a quick treat.
  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 40
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: caramel pecan carrot cake, carrot cake with caramel topping, moist carrot cake, pecan cake, holiday dessert, easy homemade cake

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