If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe. This luscious cake combines the comforting flavors of buttery pecans, rich caramel, and a sweet, creamy praline topping that seeps into every tender bite. Perfectly moist and decadently sweet, it’s one of those show-stoppers that’s surprisingly simple to make, yet absolutely irresistible to enjoy with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together harmoniously to create a cake that’s bursting with flavor and texture. Each one plays a crucial role in building the rich, gooey, and nutty magic of this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe.
- Butter pecan cake mix: Provides the buttery, nutty base and makes baking quick and foolproof.
- Sweetened condensed milk (14 oz): Adds luscious sweetness and seeps into the cake for moistness.
- Caramel ice cream topping (12 oz): Brings gooey caramel layers that perfectly complement the pecans.
- Chopped pecans (1 cup): Adds crunch and that classic nutty butter pecan flavor.
- Butter (1/2 cup): Creates the base for the rich praline topping, balancing sweetness.
- Brown sugar (1 cup): Caramelizes beautifully to give the praline topping its depth.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the praline sauce silky and smooth.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors with a warm, mellow note.
How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Start by preparing the butter pecan cake mix according to the package directions. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake until golden and springy to the touch. This easy base delivers the perfect buttery flavor and nutty aroma that sets the tone for the entire dessert.
Step 2: Poke Those Holes
When the cake is still warm, grab the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the surface. This simple step is key because it allows all the luscious sauces to soak deep into the cake, making every bite delectably moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk
Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the holes, letting it sink right into the cake. This sweet, creamy layer seeps in and adds an irresistible richness that enhances the cake’s moist texture.
Step 4: Layer on the Caramel
Next, drizzle the caramel ice cream topping over the cake. The sticky caramel slowly melts into the condensed milk-infused cake, weaving sticky ribbons of flavor throughout.
Step 5: Make the Praline Topping
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly, then remove from heat and add the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. This warm, nutty sauce is the star of the show!
Step 6: Pour Praline Mixture Over the Cake
Pour the warm praline mixture evenly over the caramel-covered cake. Spread it gently to cover every inch, allowing those crunchy pecans and sweet sauce to settle on top.
Step 7: Cool and Set
Let the cake cool completely. As it cools, the praline topping will firm up slightly, blending beautifully with the moist, gooey cake beneath it.
How to Serve Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance, sprinkle a few toasted pecan halves or a dusting of powdered sugar on top right before serving. A small dollop of whipped cream can bring a light, fluffy contrast to the rich, nutty flavors.
Side Dishes
This decadent poke cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. These additions add freshness and a cool creaminess that balance the rich, sweet intensity of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe in individual glass trifle cups to showcase all the layers, or slice it into petite squares and arrange on a pretty dessert platter. Either way, it’s guaranteed to steal the spotlight at any gathering!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness; it will stay delicious for up to 4 days.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this cake by wrapping individual slices in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy the same amazing flavor anytime you have a craving.
Reheating
If you want a warm treat, gently reheat a slice in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This brings back the soft, gooey texture and helps the praline topping soften slightly for the ultimate cozy dessert experience.
FAQs
Can I use homemade butter pecan cake instead of the mix?
Absolutely! Using a homemade butter pecan cake will add a personal touch and you can adjust the flavors and texture exactly how you like, though the mix keeps things super simple and reliable.
Is it necessary to poke holes in the cake?
Yes, poking holes is essential. It allows the sweetened condensed milk and caramel to soak deep into the cake, making each bite moist and flavorful rather than dry or dense.
Can I substitute the caramel ice cream topping with homemade caramel?
Definitely! Homemade caramel will work beautifully. Just make sure it’s pourable enough to seep into the cake but not so runny that it becomes watery.
Can I make this cake nut-free?
If you or your guests have nut allergies, you can omit the pecans or substitute with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds, though the classic butter pecan flavor will be less pronounced.
How long does the praline topping stay crunchy?
The praline retains its crunch best on the first day but will soften slightly as the cake sits, blending into the layers for a wonderfully sticky texture. For maximum crunch, serve fresh.
Final Thoughts
I hope you are as excited as I am to try this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe! It’s one of those rare desserts that’s both incredibly easy to make and unforgettable to eat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cake will fill your kitchen with warmth and your taste buds with pure joy. Give it a go and prepare for plenty of compliments!
Print
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a decadent dessert featuring a moist butter pecan cake infused with sweetened condensed milk and rich caramel topping. Finished with a warm praline sauce of butter, brown sugar, cream, and crunchy pecans, this cake delivers a perfect blend of buttery, nutty, and caramel flavors that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel ice cream topping
Praline Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare and bake the cake: Follow the package instructions to prepare the butter pecan cake mix, then bake it in a 9×13-inch baking dish until done.
- Poke holes while warm: 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 fillings to seep in.
- Add sweetened condensed milk: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk over the cake, allowing it to soak deeply into the holes.
- Drizzle caramel topping: Generously drizzle the caramel ice cream topping over the cake, letting it seep into the holes and coat the surface.
- Make praline sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a boil. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Finish praline sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat, stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans until well combined.
- Top the cake: Pour the warm praline mixture evenly over the cake, spreading it with a spatula if needed.
- Cool and serve: Let the cake cool completely to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use a wooden spoon handle or similar utensil to easily create uniform holes in the cake for better absorption of the milk and caramel.
- For extra nutty flavor, toast the pecans lightly before chopping and adding to the praline sauce.
- This cake is best served at room temperature or slightly chilled.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
