Coon Cake Recipe

Indulge in this decadent Southern Caramel Cake! A unique twist on a classic, this recipe uses a portion of the cake mix to create a luscious caramel topping. Get ready for moist cake layers perfectly complemented by a rich, sweet topping. Easy to follow instructions make this dessert perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers.

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 65 mins
Calories 614.1 kcal
Protein 12g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Coon Cake 26

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Coon Cake

  • 1 (18 1/4 ounce) package yellow cake mix
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 2 eggs
  • flour for dusting pans
  • 2/3 cup cake mix (for topping)
  • 2 eggs
  • not used in this recipe
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • water (as per cake mix instructions)
  • oil (as per cake mix instructions)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

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How to Make Coon Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on your cake mix box.
  2. Prepare your cake pans by greasing and flouring them. This will prevent sticking and ensure a clean release.
  3. In a medium bowl, carefully measure out 2/3 cup of your chosen cake mix. Set this aside for the topping.
  4. Prepare the remaining cake batter according to the instructions on the cake mix box. Be sure to follow the instructions for water, eggs and oil.
  5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and bake according to the instructions on the cake mix box.
  6. While the cake is baking, prepare the caramel topping. In a saucepan, combine the reserved 2/3 cup of cake mix with the following ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, 1/2 cup milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
  7. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
  8. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, continuing to stir until it thickens slightly into a caramel sauce (about 5-7 minutes).
  9. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
  10. Once the cakes are completely cooled, frost the top of one layer with the caramel topping and place the other cake layer on top.
  11. Pour any remaining caramel sauce over the top of the cake.
  12. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

21 g

Sugar

185g

Fat

37g

Carbs

29g

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