Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Get ready to fall head over heels for this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe, a truly irresistible dessert that combines the buttery richness of pecans with luscious caramel and a moist, tender cake. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion when you want to impress with a homemade dessert that feels decadent yet comes together easily. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of flavors and textures, from the gooey poke cake base to the velvety whipped topping crowned with crunchy pecans and praline accents.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that all play a vital role in creating layers of flavor and texture. From the cake mix that provides a buttery, nutty foundation, to the caramel and pecans that add sweetness and crunch, each component contributes something special.
- Butter pecan cake mix (15.25 oz): The heart of the recipe, giving that distinct butter pecan flavor you crave.
- 3 large eggs: Help bind the cake and add moisture for a tender crumb.
- 1 cup water: Needed to hydrate the cake mix and keep the texture light.
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil: Adds richness and guarantees a moist cake.
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz): Poured over the cake to soak into the holes, creating that signature luscious poke cake effect.
- 1 jar caramel sauce (12 oz, divided): Half goes into the cake for sweetness, half used as a garnish for a beautiful glossy finish.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds a delightful crunch and reinforces the buttery pecan theme.
- 1 teaspoon butter extract (optional): Enhances the buttery flavor for an even richer taste experience.
- 1 tub whipped topping (8 oz): Provides a light, fluffy contrast to the dense, sweet cake base.
- 1/2 cup crushed butter pecan cookies (optional): A fun, crunchy garnish to elevate both texture and presentation.
How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure the cake doesn’t stick. Mix the butter pecan cake mix with eggs, water, vegetable oil, and if you’re using it, the butter extract. This batter is smooth and aromatic, promising a buttery, nutty flavor. Pour it into your baking dish and bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly—not completely, because that warm cake is important for the next step.
Step 2: Poke the Cake and Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Here comes the fun part! Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar tool, poke holes all over the warm cake. These holes will absorb the sweetened condensed milk poured over the top, ensuring every bite is moist and decadently sweet. Be generous and pour the entire can slowly, letting it seep deep into the cake’s nooks and crannies.
Step 3: Drizzle Caramel Sauce and Cool
Next, drizzle half of your caramel sauce evenly over the cake so it slips into the holes along with the milk, creating pockets of irresistible gooey caramel flavor. Let the cake cool completely at room temperature—this is crucial because putting the next layers on a warm cake will cause melting and slipping.
Step 4: Add Whipped Topping and Final Touches
Once cooled, gently spread the whipped topping over the entire surface for a cloud-like layer that balances the dense, sweet cake. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the whipped topping for an elegant look and a taste boost. Finally, sprinkle the chopped pecans and crushed butter pecan cookies on top to add texture and a hint of extra buttery crunch.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Pop the cake in the refrigerator for at least one hour so it can set perfectly and flavors meld beautifully. After chilling, your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe is ready to wow everyone at your table.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To take this cake from delicious to dazzling, add a few extra garnishes. Toasted pecans add a warm, nutty aroma and extra crunch. A light dusting of cinnamon powder or nutmeg can provide subtle spice notes that complement the caramel nicely. For a festive touch, a sprinkle of edible gold dust or caramel shards would make this dessert a showstopper.
Side Dishes
This cake is rich and satisfying, so simple sides work best. Serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. Fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples can lighten the dessert experience. A hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea pairs beautifully with the buttery, nutty profile of this cake.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, cut the cake into squares and serve on a pretty platter with caramel drizzles around the edges. You could also assemble individual portions in clear dessert cups layered with extra whipped topping and pecan bits for a fancy parfait. If you want to dress it up even more, add a sprinkle of crushed toffee or a few chocolate curls on top.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain the moist texture and fresh flavor.
Freezing
If you want to freeze this cake, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
Reheating
Because it’s a chilled dessert, reheating is not usually recommended. Instead, serve it straight from the fridge or at room temperature to enjoy the full effect of that creamy whipped topping and luscious caramel.
FAQs
Can I make this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe from scratch without a mix?
Absolutely! While the box mix makes this recipe quick and foolproof, you can use your favorite homemade butter pecan cake recipe. Just keep the same moist batter consistency so it soaks up the condensed milk beautifully.
Is there a way to make this cake dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute dairy-free alternatives for the condensed milk and whipped topping, such as coconut condensed milk and coconut whipped cream. Just be sure to check the cake mix ingredients or consider making a homemade butter pecan cake to control dairy content.
Can I use other nuts instead of pecans?
Walnuts or almonds would work nicely as alternatives if you’re not a fan of pecans. Toast them lightly to bring out their flavor before adding as a topping.
Why do I need to poke holes in the cake?
Those holes allow the sweetened condensed milk and caramel to seep deep inside the cake, making it incredibly moist and gooey from within. Without poking, the toppings would just sit on the surface and the cake would be dry.
Can I make this cake in smaller pans?
While 9×13-inch is ideal for even baking and soaking, you can bake this recipe in smaller pans; just watch the baking time closely as it will vary. Poke and drizzle the toppings accordingly for consistent flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe is one of those desserts that feels both special and comforting at the same time. Its easy preparation makes it perfect for everyday treats or celebrations, while its rich layers of flavor make it unforgettable. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try — your taste buds will thank you for every buttery, caramel-drizzled bite.
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Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a luscious American dessert featuring a moist butter pecan cake infused with sweetened condensed milk and rich caramel sauce. Topped with whipped cream, chopped pecans, and optional crushed butter pecan cookies, this indulgent sheet cake combines classic flavors with a delightful praline crunch. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead to enhance the flavors.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon butter extract (optional)
Toppings & Filling
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk (14 oz)
- 1 jar caramel sauce (12 oz, divided)
- 1 tub whipped topping (8 oz)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup crushed butter pecan cookies (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix with 3 large eggs, 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon of butter extract if using. Stir until the batter is smooth and fully combined.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling the cake is done.
- Prepare Holes for Poking: While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the cake surface, allowing the toppings to seep in.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk and Caramel: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, letting it soak through the holes. Next, drizzle half of the caramel sauce on top, ensuring it seeps into the cake as well.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature. This step is important to let the flavors meld and the cake to set properly.
- Apply Whipped Topping: Once cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the entire surface of the cake, creating a creamy layer.
- Garnish and Chill: Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the whipped topping. Sprinkle chopped pecans and, if desired, crushed butter pecan cookies for added texture and decoration. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to chill and firm up before serving.
Notes
- This cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator; chilling enhances the flavors and texture.
- For an extra crunchy texture and nuttier flavor, toast the chopped pecans lightly before sprinkling on top.
- Butter extract is optional but adds a richer buttery flavor to the cake.
- Serve chilled for best taste and easier slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
