Caramel Pecan Cookie Sheet (Print Version)

Rich sheet cake adorned with pecans and smooth caramel glaze, ideal for casual parties or special dessert tables.

# Components:

→ Cake Batter

01 - 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
05 - 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
06 - 1 teaspoon baking powder
07 - 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1 cup whole milk
10 - 1 cup chopped pecans

→ Caramel Glaze

11 - 1/2 cup unsalted butter
12 - 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
13 - 1/4 cup whole milk
14 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
15 - 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
16 - 1/2 cup chopped pecans, for topping

# Directions:

01 - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13x18-inch rimmed baking sheet and, if preferred, line with parchment paper.
02 - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until fully incorporated. Add eggs and vanilla extract and beat until mixture is smooth.
03 - In a separate bowl, blend all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt thoroughly.
04 - Gradually add half of the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, followed by half of the milk, gently stirring until just combined. Repeat with remaining dry mixture and milk until batter is uniform.
05 - Carefully fold the chopped pecans into the batter, ensuring even distribution.
06 - Transfer batter onto the prepared baking sheet, smoothing surface with an offset or silicone spatula.
07 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
08 - While the cake bakes, melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until sugar dissolves, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in milk and bring to a gentle boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat, whisk in vanilla extract, then gradually add powdered sugar, whisking until smooth.
09 - Pour warm caramel glaze evenly over hot cake. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup additional chopped pecans.
10 - Allow cake to cool completely before cutting into squares for serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Rich caramel flavor with a tender cake texture
  • Easy to make for a crowd and perfect for celebrations
02 -
  • This recipe contains eggs, milk, wheat (gluten), butter, and tree nuts (pecans)
  • Cake can be made a day ahead and stored covered at room temperature
03 -
  • Toast pecans before adding for deeper flavor
  • Serve cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra treat