Old-Fashioned Caramel Pecan Gooey Cake is a classic comfort dessert that combines a soft, buttery cake base with a rich, sticky caramel topping studded with tender pecans. Moist, sweet, and deeply satisfying, this cake is the kind of dessert that feels nostalgic from the very first bite. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, potlucks, or whenever you want a dessert that feels homemade, warm, and indulgent.
What makes this cake special is its texture contrast. The bottom layer is soft and fluffy, the middle stays slightly gooey, and the top forms a luscious caramel glaze that soaks gently into the cake as it bakes. Every slice is rich without being overwhelming, making it easy to enjoy and even easier to go back for seconds.
Why This Caramel Gooey Cake Is a Timeless Favorite
This style of cake has been loved for generations because it uses simple ingredients and delivers big flavor. There’s no need for frosting or complicated decoration—the caramel topping does all the work. As the cake bakes, the topping melts down, creating a glossy, spoonable layer that makes the cake incredibly moist.
This cake is especially popular because:
- The texture stays soft and gooey
- The caramel topping adds deep flavor
- It tastes even better the next day
- It’s perfect for make-ahead baking
It’s the kind of dessert that feels comforting, familiar, and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
For the cake base
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
For the caramel pecan topping
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
How to Make Old-Fashioned Caramel Pecan Gooey Cake
Step 1: Prepare the pan and oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C / 350°F. Grease a square or rectangular baking pan and line with parchment paper if desired for easier removal.
Step 2: Make the cake batter
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the milk, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix—the batter should be smooth and thick.
Spread the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
Step 3: Prepare the caramel topping
In a medium bowl, combine brown sugar, melted butter, heavy cream, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and glossy. Fold in the chopped pecans.
Carefully pour the caramel mixture evenly over the cake batter. Do not stir—the topping will sink and spread naturally during baking.
Step 4: Bake the cake
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35–45 minutes, until the center is set but still slightly soft. A toothpick inserted into the cake portion should come out mostly clean, but the caramel layer will remain gooey.
Avoid overbaking, as this cake is meant to stay moist and tender.
Step 5: Cool before serving
Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 20–30 minutes. This allows the caramel topping to thicken and settle into the cake.
Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.
Tips for the Perfect Gooey Cake
- Do not overbake—slight softness is ideal
- Use brown sugar for deep caramel flavor
- Let the cake rest before slicing
- Serve warm for extra gooey texture
Serving Suggestions
Old-Fashioned Caramel Gooey Cake is delicious:
- On its own
- With a scoop of vanilla ice cream
- Drizzled with extra caramel sauce
- Paired with coffee or tea
It’s rich enough to be served in modest slices, making it perfect for sharing.
Storage and Make-Ahead
- Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days
- Reheating: Warm individual slices slightly for best texture
- Make-ahead: Tastes even better the next day
This cake stays moist and flavorful for several days.
Easy Variations
- No nuts: Omit pecans for a smooth caramel cake
- Extra gooey: Add an extra 2 tablespoons of cream
- Spiced version: Add cinnamon to the topping
- Chocolate twist: Add chocolate chips to the batter
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this cake supposed to be gooey?
Yes. The center should be soft and moist, not dry.
Can I use boxed cake mix?
Yes, but homemade batter gives better texture and flavor.
Why did my topping sink?
That’s normal—this is what creates the gooey layer.
Old-Fashioned Caramel Pecan Gooey Cake is the kind of dessert that brings people together. Rich, moist, and layered with warm caramel flavor, it’s a timeless recipe that feels comforting, indulgent, and truly homemade. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is one you’ll come back to again and again.