Chocolate Praline Layer Cake

Heat oven to 325 degrees. In small heavy saucepan, combine butter, 1/4 cup whipping cream and brown sugar. Cook over low heat, just until butter is melted, stirring occasionally. Pour into 2 - 8 or 9′ round cake pans; sprinkle evenly with chopped pecans. In large bowl, combine cake mix, water, oil and eggs at low speed until moistened; beat 2 minutes at highest speed. Carefully, spoon batter over pecan mixture. Bake @ 325 degrees 35 to 45 minutes or until cake springs back when touched lightly in center. Cool 5 minutes. Remove from pans. Cool completely. In small bowl, beat 1 3/4 cups whipping cream until soft peaks form. Blend in powdered sugar and vanilla; beat until stiff peaks form. To assemble cake, place 1 layer on serving plate, praline side up. Spread with 1/2 of whipped cream. Top with second layer, praline side up; spread top with remaining whipping cream. Garnish with whole pecans and chocolate curls, if desired. Store in refrigerator. Archive January 2010 December 2009 July 2009 June 2009 April 2009 March 2009 December 2008 November 2008 October 2008 September 2008 August 2008 July 2008 June 2008