If you love rich, buttery desserts with a delightful crunch, then this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe is about to become your new favorite indulgence. Imagine a moist butter pecan cake bursting with sweetened condensed milk and luscious caramel that seeps deep into every bite. Topped with a heavenly, buttery praline sauce studded with toasted pecans, this dessert combines textures and flavors that dance perfectly together. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weekend treat, this poke cake brings pure comfort and joy with every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the cake mix base that forms the soft and buttery heart to the rich caramel and praline topping that add depth and crunch, every item is here for a delicious reason.
- Butter pecan cake mix: The foundation of the cake, bringing that classic buttery and nutty flavor with built-in pecans for texture.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and moistness as it sinks into the poke holes, keeping the cake irresistibly soft.
- Caramel ice cream topping: Delivers a luscious, gooey layer of caramel flavor that complements the pecans beautifully.
- Chopped pecans: Provide a lovely crunch and nutty contrast in the praline topping.
- Butter: Essential for the praline sauce, giving it that rich, silky mouthfeel and flavor.
- Brown sugar: Sweetens the praline topping while adding a deep caramel note.
- Heavy cream: Makes the praline sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a subtle, warm aromatic touch.
How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Start by preheating your oven and preparing the butter pecan cake mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, then pop it in the oven. As this bakes, your kitchen will fill with those wonderful buttery, nutty aromas that set the stage for something truly special.
Step 2: Poke Holes
Once the cake comes out warm and perfectly golden, grab the handle of a wooden spoon and gently poke holes all over the surface. This simple trick is the secret to allowing all the moist and flavorful toppings to sink right into the cake, ensuring every slice is tender and bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, letting it slowly seep into those holes. This step adds incredible moisture and sweetness that transforms the cake into a luscious dessert with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Step 4: Drizzle Caramel
Next, drizzle the caramel ice cream topping across the cake, allowing it to flow into all the nooks created by your poking. The caramel brings a silky richness and a hint of buttery sweetness that pairs perfectly with the pecan flavors.
Step 5: Make the Praline Topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. This buttery, caramelized sauce will soon crown your cake with its irresistible sheen.
Step 6: Finish and Pour the Topping
Remove the praline sauce from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. Pour this glossy, nut-studded topping evenly over the cake, spreading it carefully to coat every inch. The praline topping adds both texture and a decadent sweetness that completes the dessert’s harmony.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe cool completely at room temperature. This allows all the layers to set and meld into a perfectly moist and flavorful masterpiece. Once cooled, it’s ready to slice, serve, and delight your family or guests with each bite.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For a stunning presentation, sprinkle a few extra chopped pecans on top right before serving. You can also add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to complement the warm, buttery flavors and create a luscious contrast.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with simple sides like fresh berries or a light fruit salad to balance the richness. A cup of hot coffee or a smooth dessert wine also elevates the experience, allowing the buttery pecan and caramel notes to shine.
Creative Ways to Present
Treat your guests to an elegant dessert display by cutting the poke cake into bite-sized squares and serving on decorative platters. Layering individual portions in parfait glasses with whipped cream and extra caramel drizzle makes for a fun, elegant twist that’s perfect for parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days, letting the flavors marry even more as time passes.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the texture and taste.
Reheating
Since this cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature, reheating is not necessary. If you prefer it slightly warmed, gently microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds, but avoid overheating so the praline topping stays perfect.
FAQs
Can I use homemade butter pecan cake instead of a mix?
Absolutely! If you have your favorite butter pecan cake recipe, it’s a wonderful option to use. The poke and topping steps remain the same to achieve that decadent pudding-like texture with the praline finish.
What type of pecans work best for the praline topping?
Fresh, chopped pecans that are lightly toasted bring out the best flavor and crunch in the praline topping. Toasting enhances their natural nuttiness and helps balance the sweetness of the caramel.
Can I substitute caramel ice cream topping with homemade caramel sauce?
Yes! A homemade caramel sauce will add a personal touch and can be tailored to your preferred sweetness level. Just be sure it has a good pourable consistency so it seeps nicely into the poke holes.
Is this poke cake recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Definitely! The Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe yields about 12 servings, making it perfect to share at family dinners, potlucks, or celebrations. You can easily double the recipe for bigger crowds.
Can I prepare this dessert a day ahead?
Preparing this cake a day in advance is actually a great idea. It allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, and the cake will be even more moist and flavorful when served the next day.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dessert that’s equal parts comforting and impressive, this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe is your go-to. Each slice offers a dreamy texture layer with buttery cake, sweet caramel, and nutty praline goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your dessert repertoire!
Print
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert combining the buttery sweetness of a butter pecan cake with luscious layers of caramel and a homemade pecan praline topping. The poke cake technique allows sweetened condensed milk and caramel to soak deep into the cake for maximum flavor and moistness, while the praline topping adds a delightful crunchy texture.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
Sweet Layers
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel ice cream topping
Praline Topping
- ½ cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven and prepare the butter pecan cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake as directed.
- Poke Holes: When the cake is baked and still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top, allowing subsequent ingredients to seep in.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the cake, letting it soak deeply into the holes.
- Drizzle Caramel: Drizzle the caramel ice cream topping all over the cake, allowing it to penetrate the holes and add extra richness.
- Make the Praline Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a boil. Cook for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens.
- Finish the Topping: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Pour Topping: Pour the praline mixture evenly over the cake, spreading it to cover the surface.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool completely to allow the flavors to set before serving.
Notes
- Make sure the cake is warm when poking holes and adding sweetened condensed milk to allow optimal absorption.
- Use a wooden spoon handle or similar tool to evenly poke holes all over the cake.
- The praline topping will harden slightly as it cools, adding a crunchy texture.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For extra flavor, lightly toast the pecans before chopping and adding to the praline.
