This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a sweet treat that’s sure to please! With its moist cake filled with rich buttery pecan flavor, it’s impossible to resist.
As you poke holes in the cake and pour in that gooey praline sauce, you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar! I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top for an extra fun dessert! 🍦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the foundation of the cake. If you prefer from-scratch, you can use a homemade vanilla cake recipe instead. Just remember to adjust the baking time as needed.
Pecans: These add a wonderful crunch and flavor. If you’re allergic or want a different taste, walnuts work great as a substitute. You could also leave them out for a nut-free version.
Brown Sugar: This gives the cake its caramel notes. If you’re out, light brown sugar can be replaced with white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses to mimic the flavor.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: A key ingredient for that creamy texture and sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, use coconut condensed milk for a similar texture and a hint of coconut flavor.
Heavy Cream: This is used for the optional glaze. If you want a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or even almond milk blended with a little oil for creaminess.
How Do I Properly Poke the Cake for Maximum Flavor?
Poking holes in the cake is crucial for letting the praline sauce soak in! Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer. This creates wider holes that allow the sauce to penetrate deeply.
- Make sure the cake is still warm. This helps the sauce to absorb better.
- Poke holes evenly across the entire cake, about an inch apart to ensure each bite is flavorful.
Remember, the more holes you poke, the more flavor each slice will have as it absorbs that delicious praline mixture! Happy baking!
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Ingredients:
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- Ingredients called for on the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, water)
- 1 cup chopped pecans, toasted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), melted
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for praline sauce)
Time Needed:
This delicious Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 40-45 minutes to bake and set in the oven. So, in total, you’re looking at about an hour to create this delightful dessert, plus some extra time if you let it cool before serving! Enjoy making this indulgent treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven according to the cake mix instructions, usually around 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
In a mixing bowl, prepare the yellow cake mix following the package instructions—you’ll typically add eggs, oil, and water. Once mixed well, pour the batter into the greased baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
3. Bake the Cake:
Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
4. Toast the Pecans:
While the cake is baking, take the chopped pecans and toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll know they’re done when they’re fragrant and lightly browned. Set them aside.
5. Poke Holes in the Cake:
As soon as the cake is baked, grab a wooden spoon’s handle or something similar and poke holes all over the warm cake. This step is key for allowing the gooey praline sauce to seep in and keep the cake moist and flavorful.
6. Make the Praline Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, melted butter, sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir until well combined. This luscious sauce is going to make your cake extra special!
7. Pour the Sauce Over the Cake:
Evenly pour the praline sauce over the warm cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes you made earlier. Sprinkle the toasted pecans over the top for added crunch and flavor.
8. Bake Again:
Return the cake to the oven and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes. This will help set the sauce and give the pecans a nice toasted finish.
9. Create a Glaze (Optional):
If you’d like to add an extra drizzle, gently warm the heavy cream and mix it with any leftover praline sauce to create a glaze. Drizzle this over individual slices right before serving!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked and slightly cooled, serve the cake warm or at room temperature. It’s delicious on its own, but I highly recommend pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect dessert experience!
Enjoy the rich, buttery pecan and sweet caramel-like praline flavors soaking into a moist, tender poke cake. Happy baking!
Can I Use Another Flavor of Cake Mix?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix complements the praline flavor perfectly, you can substitute it with chocolate or butter cake mix for a different twist. Just keep an eye on the baking time, as it may vary slightly.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best flavor, enjoy them cold or gently reheated in the microwave.
Can I Make This Cake ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance! Just bake, let it cool slightly, and cover it. Add the praline sauce and additional baking just before serving to keep it fresh and moist.
What Can I Substitute for Sweetened Condensed Milk?
If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, you can create a homemade version using regular milk and sugar. Combine 1 cup of milk with 1/4 cup of sugar, heat until dissolved, and reduce until thickened. You’ll get a similar creamy texture that works well in this recipe!
