If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent desserts, the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a must-try recipe. Combining the nutty warmth of butter pecan with the sugary crunch of praline, this cake delivers flavors reminiscent of Southern hospitality in every bite. Its unique “poke” method ensures every slice is loaded with luscious caramel-like praline sauce, creating a moist and irresistibly sweet treat. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a sweet indulgence, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
Cake:
- 1 box of butter pecan cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Praline Sauce:
- 1 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Topping:
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted, optional)
Preparation
- Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Beat until smooth and well-combined, then fold in the chopped pecans.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake according to the package instructions (approximately 28–32 minutes).
Allow the cake to cool slightly. - Make the Praline Sauce:
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to thicken (about 5–7 minutes).
Remove from heat, stir in vanilla extract and salt, and let it cool for a few minutes. - Poke and Fill:
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cooled cake. Pour the warm praline sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into each hole. Spread any remaining sauce over the top. - Add Toppings:
Once the cake has fully cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake. Sprinkle with toasted pecans for added crunch and flavor. - Chill and Serve:
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Variation
- Chocolate Lover’s Version: Add a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the whipped topping for a decadent twist.
- Coconut Praline Poke Cake: Add shredded coconut to the cake batter and praline sauce for a tropical spin.
- Salted Caramel Addition: Swap the praline sauce for salted caramel for a unique flavor profile.
Cooking Note
- To toast pecans, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring once. This enhances their nutty flavor.
- For a richer cake, replace the water with whole milk or buttermilk.
Serving Suggestions
The Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is best served cold, making it perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or holiday gatherings. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for a luxurious dessert.
Tips
- Use a fork if you don’t have a wooden spoon to poke holes. Just ensure the holes are large enough for the sauce to penetrate.
- Make this cake a day ahead for even more flavor—the praline sauce soaks in beautifully overnight.
- Experiment with flavored whipped toppings, such as caramel or vanilla, for added flair.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (including chilling time)
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fat: 18g
- Sodium: 280mg
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Absolutely! This cake tastes even better the next day, as the praline sauce has more time to infuse the cake.
Q: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?
A: Yes, freshly whipped cream is a great alternative. Stabilize it with a little powdered sugar to maintain its texture.
Q: What can I substitute for heavy cream in the praline sauce?
A: You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce may be slightly less rich.
Conclusion
The Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a show-stopping dessert that combines the rich flavors of butter pecan, praline sauce, and creamy toppings. Simple to prepare yet impressive to serve, this cake will quickly become a favorite for special occasions and everyday indulgence alike. Make it today and savor the sweet taste of the South!