Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as easy as it is irresistible, let me introduce you to Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake. This crowd-pleaser combines the cozy richness of butter pecan flavor, gooey caramel, and nutty pecan praline goodness in every bite. Each forkful delivers lush, melt-in-your-mouth cake tenderized with swirls of sweetened condensed milk and topped with airy whipped cream, more caramel, and a generous shower of toasted pecans. It’s a slice of Southern comfort that’s shockingly simple to whip up, and you’ll be tempted to serve it at every gathering!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps things wonderfully simple, yet every ingredient plays a crucial role in crafting the fabulous taste and texture of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake. Gather these essentials and let each one shine in this decadent dessert:

• Butter pecan cake mix: The main flavor driver, delivering that classic, buttery cake with hints of toasted pecan in every bite.
• Large eggs (3): Eggs provide structure and richness, giving your cake an irresistibly soft crumb.
• Water (1 cup): Adds essential moisture and helps blend the batter seamlessly.
• Vegetable oil (1/3 cup): Keeps the cake tender, ensuring it stays moist and soft even after chilling.
• Sweetened condensed milk (1 can, 14 oz): This magic ingredient seeps into the cake’s holes, making every bite rich and decadently sweet.
• Caramel topping (1 jar, 11.75 oz): Adds signature praline-like depth and gooeyness both inside and on top of the cake.
• Chopped pecans (1/2 cup): For that signature buttery crunch—try toasting them for an extra boost of flavor.
• Whipped topping (1 container, 8 oz): Gives your cake that cloud-like, creamy finish that ties everything together.
• Vanilla extract (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the overall warmth and sweetness of the cake’s profile.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Just a touch to balance all that sweetness and bring out the pecan and caramel notes.

How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. Mix the butter pecan cake according to the package instructions, adding in the eggs, water, and oil. Stir until everything is smooth, lush, and creamy—your kitchen will already start to smell wonderful!

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared dish, smoothing out the top. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick poked in the center comes out clean. This is the foundation of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, so resist the urge to open the oven early for the fluffiest results!

Step 3: Poke and Soak

Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes, then grab the handle of a wooden spoon and gently poke holes all over the top. In a small bowl, blend together the sweetened condensed milk and about half of the caramel topping. Pour this glorious mixture all over, letting it drizzle into every nook and cranny.

Step 4: Cool Completely

Patience pays off! Allow the cake to cool fully so that the filling can soak in and set. This step keeps the signature Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake texture lusciously moist and custardy.

Step 5: Finish with Toppings

Combine the whipped topping, vanilla extract, and salt in a bowl, folding gently until blended. Spread this dreamy layer over the cooled cake. Sprinkle the chopped (and if you wish, toasted) pecans over the top and drizzle with the rest of the caramel. Chill for at least an hour before slicing—if you can wait that long!

How to Serve Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Garnishes

Give your masterpiece the final touch with garnishes. A little extra caramel drizzle, a sprinkle of finely chopped pecans, or a light dusting of cinnamon takes Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake from delicious to divine. You can even add a dollop of extra whipped cream for extra indulgence!

Side Dishes

Looking to round out your dessert table? Serve this cake alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Its rich, buttery flavors pair beautifully with lighter sides like fresh berries for a balanced treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake presentation up a notch by cutting it into elegant squares and serving them in cupcake wrappers for a party. Or assemble mini parfaits by layering chunks of cake, whipped cream, and caramel in clear glasses—perfect for individual portions at celebrations!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After indulging, simply cover any leftover cake and store it in the refrigerator. Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake stays moist and flavorful for up to four days—if it lasts that long! The whipped topping holds up nicely and the flavors just keep getting better.

Freezing

This cake freezes surprisingly well. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, and freeze for up to a month. When you’re craving a taste of Southern sweetness, thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.

Reheating

Although Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is mainly served chilled, if you’d like to gently warm it (just a touch), a few seconds in the microwave will do the trick. This makes the caramel just a bit gooey again—an extra treat!

FAQs

Can I use homemade caramel instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite homemade caramel sauce, it’ll work beautifully and give a fresh, personalized touch to your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake. Just ensure it’s pourable for soaking into the cake.

What’s the best way to toast pecans?

Toasting pecans is simple and adds irresistible depth. Just toss the chopped pecans into a dry skillet over medium heat, stirring for 4–5 minutes until fragrant and golden. Cool before adding to the cake.

Can I substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream?

You sure can! Fresh whipped cream offers a richer, airier texture. If making ahead, stabilize it a bit with a tablespoon of powdered sugar so it holds up just as well as store-bought.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the regular butter pecan cake mix for a gluten-free variety. Double-check all your other ingredients for hidden gluten, and you’re ready to enjoy gluten-free Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake bliss!

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, since the moist filling and whipped topping need to stay cool, Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake should always be stored in the refrigerator when you’re not serving it.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re baking for a celebration or simply to treat yourself, Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake never fails to wow. It’s pure comfort and Southern sweetness in every forkful. I hope you’ll give it a try—one bite, and it might just become your new favorite signature dessert!

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