Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe

Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors and a moist texture. You’re going to love how the cake absorbs the buttery praline goodness, making every bite a sweet experience. With its nutty flavor and creamy finish, this cake is an excellent choice for gatherings, parties, or just satisfying your sweet tooth at home.

Ingredients for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe

Here is what you’ll need to make this fantastic poke cake:

The Cake

  • 1 box yellow cake mix: This is the base of your cake and makes everything easy.
  • 3 large eggs: They help bind the cake together.
  • 1 cup water: Keeps your cake moist.
  • 1/3 cup vegetable oil: Adds richness to the cake.

The Praline Sauce

  • 1 cup brown sugar: Provides that classic caramel-like taste.
  • 1/2 cup butter: A must for your praline sauce.
  • 1/4 cup heavy cream: Makes your sauce creamy and dreamy.
  • 1 cup chopped pecans: The star ingredient adds texture and that nutty flavor.

The Topping

  • 1 cup whipped cream: Lightens up the cake and adds fluffiness.
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans: For extra crunch on top.
  • Caramel sauce: Drizzled over the top to add an irresistible finishing touch.

How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Making this cake is super easy! Just follow these steps:

Prepare the Cake

  1. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
  2. Mix the Cake Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and oil. Mix until well blended.
  3. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  4. Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.
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Make the Praline Sauce

  1. Melt Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is smooth.
  2. Add Pecans: Once the butter has melted and the sugar is dissolved, add the chopped pecans. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer for about 3 minutes. Then, remove it from the heat.

Poke the Cake

  1. Poke Holes: Once your cake has cooled a bit, take a fork and poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure to poke deep enough to let the sauce seep in.
  2. Pour Sauce: Slowly pour the warm praline sauce over the cake, making sure it fills all the holes. Let the cake soak in the sauce for about 30 minutes.

Add Toppings

  1. Spread Whipped Cream: Top the cake with whipped cream, spreading it evenly.
  2. Sprinkle Pecans: Add the chopped pecans for that crunch.
  3. Drizzle Caramel Sauce: Last but not least, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top.

Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

  • Let it Chill: For the best flavor, let your cake chill in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This helps all the flavors meld together.
  • Make Ahead: This cake is great for meal prep or gatherings. It holds up well, so consider making it a day in advance.
  • Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative! You can add chocolate shavings, coconut flakes, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

  • Warm Up: Serve the cake slightly warmed. It enhances the flavor of the praline sauce.
  • Ice Cream Pairing: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side makes it even more delicious.
  • Coffee Companion: This cake pairs perfectly with a nice cup of coffee or tea.
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Storage Tips for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

  • Room Temperature: Keep your cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerate: For longer freshness, store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure it’s well wrapped.
  • Freezing: If you want to save some for later, you can freeze the cake (without the toppings). Wrap it tightly in plastic and then foil before freezing. Just thaw it in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Variations of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

  • Chocolate Twist: Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a rich chocolatey flavor.
  • Different Nuts: Substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a unique texture.
  • Flavor Boosts: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the praline sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

While this cake is a treat, it’s nice to know that pecans do have health benefits:

  • Good Fats: Pecans are a source of healthy fats, which can be great for heart health.
  • Fiber Boost: They also contain fiber, aiding in digestion.
  • Vitamins & Minerals: Pecans are rich in vitamins A and E, along with zinc and magnesium.

Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert recipe collection. With its sweet, nutty flavor and moist texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy baking, sharing, and, most importantly, eating this delicious cake!