If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s filled with rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a decadent treat that combines the nutty warmth of butter pecans with the gooey sweetness of caramel and praline topping, all soaked into a moist, tender cake. Trust me, every bite feels like a special occasion, and once you try it, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite for gatherings or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this cake is wonderfully simple, yet each one plays an essential role in achieving that perfect balance of buttery, nutty, and sweet flavors. From the buttery cake mix to the rich praline topping, every element layers together to create an unforgettable dessert.
- Butter pecan cake mix: The base that sets the buttery, nutty tone with ease and convenience.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy moisture and sweetness that soaks right into the cake for a luscious texture.
- Caramel ice cream topping: Provides that irresistible gooey caramel flavor that melts beautifully into the cake.
- Chopped pecans: Brings crunch and authentic nutty flavor to the praline topping.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create the smooth praline sauce.
- Brown sugar: Enhances depth with a warm, molasses-like sweetness in the praline.
- Heavy cream: Gives the praline a creamy consistency that binds the topping perfectly.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a lovely fragrant note that rounds out all the sweet flavors.
How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Butter Pecan Cake
Start by preparing your butter pecan cake mix exactly as the box instructs and pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Baking this cake creates a light yet moist foundation that will absorb all the delicious toppings to come.
Step 2: Poke the Cake While Warm
When the cake comes out of the oven and is still warm, take the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the surface. These holes are crucial—they allow the sweetened condensed milk and caramel to sink deep into the cake, soaking up all that heavenly flavor.
Step 3: Pour on the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Slowly pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it seeps into each and every one of those lovely holes you just made. This step guarantees that every bite is ultra moist and indulgent.
Step 4: Add the Caramel Ice Cream Topping
Next, drizzle the jar of caramel topping over the cake, letting the luscious caramel also sink into the crevices along with the milk, creating layers of sticky sweetness beneath the surface.
Step 5: Prepare the Praline Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Then, stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly—this will become your rich and creamy praline topping.
Step 6: Stir in Vanilla and Pecans
Once off the heat, mix in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. This step infuses the praline with fragrant warmth and crunchy texture, making the topping unforgettable.
Step 7: Pour the Praline Mixture Over the Cake
Pour the warm praline sauce evenly over the cake, spreading it out so every inch gets coated with those buttery pecans and silky caramel goodness.
Step 8: Cool and Set
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. This helps the praline topping set perfectly and the flavors meld together into an irresistible dessert masterpiece.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe even more, consider sprinkling a few extra chopped pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar on top just before serving. A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a lovely airy contrast to the cake’s rich texture.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a warm cup of coffee. The creamy ice cream complements the sugary toppings beautifully, while coffee balances the sweetness for an ideal dessert ending.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in small dessert glasses or Mason jars for a charming twist. Layer pieces of the cake with extra caramel and whipped cream for an elegant parfait-style indulgence that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, retaining all that wonderful moistness and flavor.
Freezing
This cake freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Simply cover it tightly with foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge so the flavors and texture stay just right.
Reheating
If you prefer a warm slice, gently reheat individual portions in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. The praline topping will soften beautifully, giving you a comforting slice of heaven in no time.
FAQs
Can I use homemade cake instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed to be quick and easy with a cake mix, using your favorite homemade butter pecan cake recipe will only enhance the flavor and add a personal touch.
What if I don’t have caramel ice cream topping?
You can substitute caramel sauce or even dulce de leche. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold and soak properly into the cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Choose a gluten-free butter pecan cake mix to accommodate gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Is this cake best served cold or at room temperature?
It’s delicious both ways! Serving slightly chilled helps the praline set nicely, but room temperature allows the cake and toppings to shine with softer textures.
How long does it take to prepare the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe?
From start to finish, including baking and cooling, plan on about an hour. The prep is quick, but letting the cake cool completely is key for the best results.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to indulge in something truly amazing, I can’t recommend the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe enough. This dessert effortlessly combines decadent flavors, simple steps, and a texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this tasty creation—you won’t regret it!
Print
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 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 decadent dessert featuring a moist butter pecan cake soaked with sweetened condensed milk and caramel topping. It is finished with a warm, buttery praline sauce loaded with chopped pecans for a crunchy, buttery finish. Perfect for special occasions or indulgent treats.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
Soaking and Topping
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel ice cream topping
Praline Sauce
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Prepare and bake the butter pecan cake mix according to the package instructions in a 9×13-inch baking dish until fully cooked and golden.
- Poke Holes: While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake to allow the toppings to seep in.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the entire cake, making sure it soaks into all the holes to add moisture and sweetness.
- Drizzle Caramel: Drizzle the caramel ice cream topping over the cake, letting it flow into the holes and cover the surface for extra rich flavor.
- Prepare Praline Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a boil. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Finish Praline Sauce: Remove the pan from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans to make the praline topping.
- Top the Cake: Pour the warm praline mixture evenly over the cake, spreading it to cover the surface thoroughly.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool completely to set the toppings before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure proper thickness and baking time.
- For best results, serve the cake after it has fully cooled to allow the praline topping to firm up slightly.
- You can toast the pecans lightly before chopping for added flavor.
- Store leftover cake in the refrigerator covered tightly for up to 3 days.
- This cake is rich, so small portions are recommended.
