There’s something enchanting about the way flavors come together in a well-crafted dessert, and my Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is just that. Picture this: warm, buttery cake mingling with the rich sweetness of a creamy praline sauce, all crowned with crunchy toasted pecans. The first time I served this cake at a family gathering, it disappeared in minutes, leaving everyone clamoring for the recipe!
This indulgent dessert isn’t merely a treat; it elevates any occasion, transforming simple weeknight dinners into special memories. Whether you’re catching up with friends over coffee or hosting a holiday feast, this poke cake brings smiles and satisfaction with every delicious bite.
Made from easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip it up in a flash. Perfect for those who crave the layers of flavor found in Southern cuisine, take a moment to indulge yourself—and trust me, this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake makes every dessert moment feel truly special.
Why Will You Love Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
Deliciously Indulgent: This cake combines warm, buttery layers with a creamy praline sauce that makes every bite a taste of heaven.
Effortlessly Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a stunning dessert without any baking stress.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive celebration, this poke cake guarantees to impress guests and family alike.
Versatile Flavors: The option to add caramel or coconut, or even mix in spices, allows you to customize it to your taste.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and chill, letting the flavors meld beautifully, making it a hassle-free addition to your menu.
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Ingredients
• Prepare to be delighted as you gather the essential ingredients for your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake!
For the Cake
- Butter Pecan Cake Mix – The flavorful base of the cake; choose one with real butter for an extra rich taste.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk – Fills the holes for a moist cake; critical for enhancing the poke cake effect.
For the Praline Sauce
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the praline sauce; unsalted helps control sweetness.
- Brown Sugar – Creates a delicious caramelization; pick light or dark based on your flavor preference.
- Heavy Cream – For a luscious texture in the sauce; necessary for that creamy consistency.
For the Whipped Topping
- Heavy Whipping Cream – Use full-fat for the fluffiest topping that stays beautifully in place.
- Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped topping; adjust according to your desired sweetness.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances and elevates the flavor of your whipped topping; pure vanilla is best for an authentic taste.
For the Garnish
- Toasted Pecans – Add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor; swap with crushed graham crackers for a nut-free alternative.
With these carefully selected ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake that not only satisfies cravings but also makes dessert special!
How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to prepare a 9×13-inch cake pan with a good coat of non-stick spray to ensure easy removal!
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Prepare Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the butter pecan cake mix according to package instructions. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Poke Holes: Once the cake has baked, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Using a fork, gently poke holes throughout the top of the cake, which will soak up all the delicious flavors.
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Soak with Condensed Milk: While the cake is still warm, pour sweetened condensed milk over the top, allowing it to fill the holes. Let the cake cool completely, which should take around 30 minutes.
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Make Praline Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, simmering for 3-5 minutes until it thickens and becomes heavenly!
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Pour Praline Sauce: Drizzle half of the warm praline sauce over the cooled cake, making sure it seeps into the holes for that extra flavor infusion.
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Prepare Whipped Topping: In a mixing bowl, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form. This will give you a light and fluffy topping that you’ll love!
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Assemble Cake: Spread the whipped topping over the cake evenly, then drizzle the remaining praline sauce on top. To finish, garnish with toasted pecans for a crunchy touch.
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Chill: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling time is essential for letting all the flavors meld beautifully.
Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
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Poke with Care: Make sure to poke holes while the cake is still warm; this helps the sweetened condensed milk absorb fully, enhancing the cake’s moisture.
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Watch the Sauce: Keep an eye on the praline sauce as it simmers to prevent burning; continuous stirring ensures a smooth finish.
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Whip Perfectly: Whip the heavy cream just until stiff peaks form. Overbeating can lead to a grainy texture that won’t hold up well on the cake.
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Chill Thoroughly: Allow the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake to chill for a minimum of two hours. This step allows the flavors to meld, making dessert moments truly special.
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Customize to Taste: Feel free to adjust the topping sweetness or add flavor enhancements like a sprinkle of cinnamon, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Storage Tips for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
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Fridge: Store any leftover Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture and rich flavor.
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Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, placing it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
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Reheating: If desired, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds to restore warmth and enhance the deliciousness of this indulgent dessert.
What to Serve with Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
There’s nothing like a delightful dessert to complete a meal, and this cake is no exception.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, it balances the cake’s richness, creating a classic and comforting combination. The melting ice cream against the warm cake is simply divine!
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Fresh Berries: Bright and juicy, berries like raspberries or strawberries add a refreshing tartness that contrasts beautifully with the sweet praline cake.
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Coffee: A rich cup of coffee pairs perfectly, enhancing the nutty flavors of the cake without overwhelming your palate. Sip slowly while savoring each bite!
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream elevates every slice, adding extra creaminess that complements the cake’s texture.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For those with a chocolate craving, a light drizzle of chocolate sauce can introduce a decadent twist, transforming the cake experience entirely.
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Lemon Sorbet: A scoop of zesty lemon sorbet provides a refreshing cleanse that offsets the sweetness, making it a perfect palate cleanser.
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Nutty Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce brings an extra layer of indulgence, enhancing the poke cake’s flavors and nutty undertones.
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Pecan Pie Bars: If you’re feeling adventurous, serving miniature pecan pie bars alongside offers a delightful texture contrast, further embracing the Southern theme.
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Sparkling Wine: For adults at your gathering, a glass of bubbly adds a touch of celebration to the sweet end of your meal, enhancing the overall dessert experience.
With these delightful pairings, your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake truly becomes the centerpiece of a comforting and memorable dessert spread!
Variations & Substitutions for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Looking to add your unique twist to this already delightful dessert? Let your creativity shine with these fun variations and substitutions!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free butter pecan cake mix for an equally delicious experience without the gluten.
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Nut-Free: Swap out the pecans for crushed graham crackers; it gives a delightful crunch without the nuts.
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Flavor Enhancements: Drizzle caramel on top for extra sweetness or fold in toasted coconut into the whipped topping for a tropical twist. This adds delightful layers of flavor, making each bite feel like a mini-vacation!
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Spices: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cake mix to warm things up with a cozy flavor profile. Just a hint can elevate that Southern charm!
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Chocolate Lovers: Melt a bit of chocolate and drizzle it over the whipped cream for a luxurious touch that chocolate enthusiasts will adore.
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Fruit Infusion: Add fresh slices of bananas or strawberries on top of the whipped cream for a burst of freshness and natural sweetness. It’s a lovely contrast to the rich praline!
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Zesty Kick: Mix in a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the whipped topping for a refreshing citrus note; it brightens up the dessert beautifully!
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Alternative Sweeteners: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar in the praline sauce for a unique flavor twist that complements the pecans.
Make Ahead Options
These Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cakes are perfect for meal prep, saving you valuable time during busy weeks. You can bake the cake and soak it with sweetened condensed milk up to 24 hours in advance; simply keep it covered in the fridge to maintain its moisture. The praline sauce can also be prepared a day ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator—just reheat it gently before drizzling over the cake. When you’re ready to serve, top the cake with your whipped cream mixture and garnish with toasted pecans. This way, you’ll enjoy a stunning dessert that feels just as fresh and indulgent as when you first made it!
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of cake mix should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! It’s best to use a butter pecan cake mix that has real butter listed in the ingredients. This enhances the flavor profile and gives your cake that rich, buttery taste everyone loves.
How should I store leftovers of the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s well-covered to keep that wonderful moisture intact. If you’d like to keep it longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I freeze the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
Definitely! To freeze, ensure that the cake is completely cooled. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply remove from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
What if my praline sauce is too thin?
If your praline sauce didn’t thicken as much as you’d hoped, don’t worry! Simply return it to the heat and let it simmer a little longer, stirring frequently to avoid burning. If it still won’t thicken, you can mix a small cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water) into the sauce and allow it to cook for another couple of minutes until thick. This should give you that desired luscious texture.
Is there a nut-free version of the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
Very! You can easily substitute the toasted pecans with crushed graham crackers for a delightful crunch without the nuts. This way, everyone can enjoy the dessert, regardless of nut allergies.
How long should I chill the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake before serving?
Chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This is crucial for letting the flavors meld beautifully and achieving that perfect texture that makes this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake special. Just trust me, the wait is worth it!
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Makes Dessert Special Tonight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×13-inch cake pan with non-stick spray.
- Stir together the butter pecan cake mix according to package instructions. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for about 30 minutes.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes. Poke holes throughout the cake with a fork.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake, filling the holes. Let cool completely for about 30 minutes.
- In a saucepan, melt unsalted butter, stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, simmering for 3-5 minutes until thickened.
- Drizzle half of the warm praline sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Spread the whipped topping over the cake, drizzle the remaining praline sauce on top, and garnish with toasted pecans.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.