Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Name: Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake: Indulge in Sweet Delights!
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 2 h 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix; 1 cup water; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Posted on August 28, 2025

Sweet Treats

Introduction to Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to whipping up something sweet. That’s why I absolutely adore this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience that brings smiles to the table. Imagine a moist cake infused with the rich flavors of butter and pecans, all drizzled with a luscious praline sauce. This recipe is perfect for impressing your loved ones or simply treating yourself after a long day. Trust me, this cake will become your go-to for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a dream come true for busy lives. It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor. The combination of buttery cake and crunchy pecans creates a delightful texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dessert, allowing you to prepare it in advance and enjoy the compliments later. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:

Yellow cake mix: The base of our cake, providing a light and fluffy texture.
Water: Essential for mixing the cake batter, helping to achieve the right consistency.
Vegetable oil: Adds moisture and richness to the cake, ensuring it stays tender.
Large eggs: These bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s structure.
Sweetened condensed milk: This creamy ingredient infuses the cake with sweetness and a luscious texture.
Heavy cream: Adds richness to the praline mixture, making it smooth and decadent.
Chopped pecans: The star of the show! They provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Brown sugar: This adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the pecans beautifully.
Butter: A must for that rich, buttery flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
Vanilla extract: A splash of this enhances the overall flavor, making it even more delightful.

For those looking to switch things up, consider using toasted pecans for an extra layer of flavor. You can also make this cake a day in advance; it only gets better as the flavors meld together. If you want to elevate your dessert, top it with whipped cream before serving. The exact quantities for each ingredient are listed at the bottom of the article for your convenience, ready for printing!

How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dessert that will wow your family and friends.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly. A hot oven helps the cake rise properly, giving it that fluffy texture we all love. So, don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

Next, grab a large mixing bowl and combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until everything is well combined, but don’t overdo it! A few lumps are okay. This will help keep your cake light and airy. If you want to add a little extra flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of vanilla extract at this stage.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake it in your preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your cake is ready! Let it cool for about 10 minutes before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Poke Holes in the Cake

Once the cake has cooled slightly, it’s time to poke holes all over the surface using the end of a wooden spoon. This step is essential for a poke cake! The holes allow the delicious pecan praline mixture to seep in, making every bite a burst of flavor.

Step 5: Make the Pecan Praline Mixture

In a saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, chopped pecans, brown sugar, butter, and vanilla extract. Cook over medium heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened. You want it to be pourable but not too runny. This rich mixture is what makes the cake so indulgent!

Step 6: Pour the Mixture Over the Cake

Now, pour the warm pecan praline mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into all those holes. This is where the magic happens! The cake will soak up all that sweet goodness, ensuring every slice is packed with flavor. Don’t be shy—use a spatula to spread it evenly if needed.

Step 7: Cool and Refrigerate

Finally, let the cake cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cool, cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delicious. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature eggs for a smoother batter.
Don’t rush the cooling process; it enhances flavor.
For a richer taste, toast your pecans before adding them.
Make sure to poke enough holes for maximum flavor absorption.
Consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.

Equipment Needed

Mixing bowl: A large bowl for combining ingredients; a stand mixer works too.
9×13 inch baking dish: Essential for baking; any similar-sized dish will do.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for poking holes; a skewer or fork can work as well.
Saucepan: For making the pecan praline mixture; a small pot is fine.
Toothpick: To check cake doneness; a knife can also be used.

Variations of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Chocolate Lovers: Swap the yellow cake mix for chocolate cake mix for a rich twist.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to make this dessert suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans and replace them with chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Caramel Drizzle: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness.
Fruit Infusion: Mix in some chopped bananas or apples into the cake batter for a fruity surprise.

Serving Suggestions for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.
Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea.
Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of extra pecans for presentation.
Garnish with a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce for added flair.

FAQs about Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Can I make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making it a day in advance enhances the flavors. Just be sure to refrigerate it after it cools completely.

What can I substitute for sweetened condensed milk?

If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can use a mixture of evaporated milk and sugar. Just combine one cup of evaporated milk with 1/2 cup of sugar and heat until dissolved.

How do I store leftovers of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days, but trust me, it won’t last that long!

Can I freeze Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?

Yes, you can freeze it! Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the fridge before serving.

What can I serve with Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s a sweet treat that complements many flavors!

Final Thoughts

Creating this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is more than just baking; it’s about crafting sweet memories. Each slice is a delightful blend of flavors that brings joy to any gathering. I love how this cake transforms a simple moment into a celebration, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends. The best part? It’s so easy to make, even on the busiest days! So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and enjoy the smiles that come with every bite. Trust me, this cake will become a cherished favorite in your home!