Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe

Introduction

Indulging in a slice of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is like treating yourself to a little slice of heaven. This cake is a true testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together to create something extraordinary. Moist, buttery cake meets rich caramel, and the praline pecan topping adds the perfect crunchy finish. I remember the first time I made this cake for a family gathering; the aroma wafting through the house had everyone eagerly anticipating dessert long before dinner was even served. When I finally cut into the cake, the delighted reactions from my family were priceless. It’s a dessert that never fails to impress, making it perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or any special occasion. If you’re ready to take your dessert game to the next level, this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is the perfect recipe to try.

Ingredients

• 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
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• ½ cup butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Cake

1. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the butter pecan cake mix box. Prepare and bake the cake in a 9×13 inch baking dish as directed.

Poke the Cake

2. Poke Holes: Once the cake is baked and while it’s still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake. The holes should be evenly spaced to ensure maximum flavor absorption.

Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk

3. Soak the Cake: Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. This will create a moist and flavorful base for the cake.

Drizzle with Caramel

4. Add Caramel: Next, drizzle the caramel ice cream topping over the cake, letting it soak into the holes as well. The combination of the sweetened condensed milk and caramel creates a rich, gooey texture.

Make the Praline Topping

5. Cook the Praline Topping: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Add Pecans: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. This praline mixture adds a delightful crunch and sweetness to the cake.

Assemble the Cake

7. Pour Topping: Pour the praline mixture evenly over the cake, spreading it to cover the surface completely.

Cool and Serve

8. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to cut into squares.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: Approximately 12
• Calories per serving: About 450 kcal

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.
• Garnish with additional chopped pecans for added texture.
• Drizzle extra caramel sauce on top for a more decadent presentation.
• Accompany with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• For a festive touch, top with maraschino cherries or chocolate shavings.

Additional Tips

1. Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality butter and pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
2. Cool Completely: Make sure the cake is completely cooled before serving to allow the caramel and praline to set.
3. Poke Holes Carefully: Poking holes gently will help the cake soak up the liquids without breaking apart.
4. Store Properly: Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
5. Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the amount of caramel topping used.

Recipe Variations

• Nut-Free Version: Omit the pecans for a nut-free cake that still retains its delicious flavor.
• Chocolate Twist: Substitute chocolate cake mix for the butter pecan for a chocolate version of this poke cake.
• Fruity Addition: Add diced apples or pears to the batter for a fruity twist on the classic recipe.
• Pumpkin Spice: Use a pumpkin spice cake mix for a seasonal variation that’s perfect for fall.
• Coconut Pecan: Mix in shredded coconut with the pecans for a tropical flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a dessert at holiday gatherings or family celebrations.
• Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Bring to potlucks or bake sales for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
• Serve as a special dessert for birthdays or anniversaries.
• Enjoy as a late-night snack with a glass of milk.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This poke cake freezes well! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake will stay moist and delicious during this time.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
2. What if I can’t find butter pecan cake mix?
   You can use a vanilla or yellow cake mix as a substitute and add a bit of pecan extract for flavor.
3. Is this cake suitable for a gluten-free diet?
   You can use a gluten-free cake mix to make this cake gluten-free.
4. How can I ensure my cake is moist?
   Make sure to poke enough holes in the cake to allow the liquid to soak in, and don’t skip the sweetened condensed milk.
5. Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
   Yes, homemade caramel sauce can be used instead of store-bought for a richer flavor.
6. How long does this cake last?
   When stored properly, it will last in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
7. Can I add frosting to this cake?
   While it’s not necessary, you can add whipped cream or a light frosting if desired.
8. What should I do if the praline topping hardens?
   If the topping hardens, you can reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stove to soften it again.
9. What kind of pecans should I use?
   Use chopped pecans for a crunchy texture; toasted pecans will add an extra depth of flavor.
10. Can I make this cake in a different pan?
    Yes, you can use an 8×8 inch or round cake pan; just adjust the baking time as necessary.

Conclusion

Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is an indulgent treat that combines the best of buttery, nutty flavors with the sweetness of caramel and a delightful creamy topping. This cake is not only easy to make but also delivers a stunning presentation that is sure to impress your guests. Perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive holiday parties, this dessert will leave everyone asking for seconds. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy the rich flavors of this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake at your next gathering!

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