If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent desserts, Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is about to become your new go-to treat. This dessert combines the nutty goodness of butter pecan cake, the creaminess of sweetened condensed milk, and the irresistible sweetness of caramel and praline topping to create a dessert that is both comforting and incredibly delicious. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or just because, this poke cake is sure to impress!
This cake is everything you want in a dessert: moist, decadent, and packed with flavor. The beauty of a poke cake is in the method itself—after baking, the cake is “punched” with holes and soaked with a flavorful mixture, creating a dessert that’s moist all the way through, not just on top.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
To make this decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Most of these items can be found in your pantry or grocery store, making this cake an easy option for a last-minute dessert.
Cake Base:
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, typically eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 jar (12 oz) caramel ice cream topping
Praline Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Why These Ingredients Work
- Butter Pecan Cake Mix: The butter pecan cake mix serves as the base for this dessert, offering a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the caramel and praline toppings. It also adds a wonderful texture to the cake.
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: The sweetened condensed milk creates a moist, creamy layer that seeps deep into the cake when you poke holes in it. This gives the cake a luscious texture and makes it extra indulgent.
- Caramel Ice Cream Topping: The caramel topping adds sweetness and an extra layer of flavor. It seeps into the holes made in the cake, ensuring each bite is packed with caramel goodness.
- Praline Topping: The praline topping is the real star of this cake. The combination of butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and pecans creates a rich, caramelized sauce that, once poured over the cake, hardens slightly, adding both texture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Directions for Making Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake may sound fancy, but it’s actually quite simple to prepare. Here’s how to create this mouthwatering dessert:
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Butter Pecan Cake
Start by preparing the butter pecan cake mix according to the package instructions. This will typically involve mixing the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water before pouring the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake the cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for the amount of time suggested on the box—usually around 25-30 minutes.
Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake
Once the cake is fully baked, remove it from the oven. While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or another similar tool to gently poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure the holes are spaced evenly, allowing the liquids to soak through and flavor the entire cake. These holes are crucial for ensuring the cake becomes extra moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
Next, pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. This step is essential because it creates the moist, creamy texture that will hold the rest of the toppings in place. Allow the milk to soak into the cake as much as possible.
Step 4: Drizzle with Caramel Ice Cream Topping
After the sweetened condensed milk has been absorbed, drizzle the caramel ice cream topping over the cake. Again, make sure it seeps into the holes, adding even more richness and flavor to each bite. You can be generous with the caramel as it adds an irresistible sweetness to the dessert.
Step 5: Make the Praline Topping
Now it’s time to make the praline topping, which is what makes this cake truly special.
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Let it boil for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly. This will help the mixture thicken slightly and turn into a smooth, caramelized sauce.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. The pecans add a lovely crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramel.
Step 6: Pour the Praline Mixture Over the Cake
Once the praline topping is ready, pour it evenly over the cake. Spread it out with a spatula to ensure it covers the entire surface. The topping will slightly harden as it cools, creating a deliciously rich, gooey praline layer on top of the cake.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. This is important because it gives the flavors time to meld and the topping to set. Once cooled, slice the cake into squares and serve.
Step 8: Optional Garnishes
If you’d like to take the presentation up a notch, you can garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. A few extra chopped pecans on top can also enhance both the flavor and texture of each bite.
Why You’ll Love Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
- Irresistibly Moist: The combination of sweetened condensed milk and caramel topping ensures this cake is incredibly moist and flavorful all the way through.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this cake is perfect for beginner bakers or anyone who wants to make a quick yet impressive dessert.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a family gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is the perfect treat. Its rich flavors and eye-catching appearance will wow your guests every time.
- Great for Leftovers: This cake stays moist and delicious even after a couple of days, making it a great option for meal prep or to share with friends and family.
Conclusion
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s rich, flavorful, and guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth. The combination of the butter pecan cake, caramel, and praline topping makes each bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy as a treat, this poke cake is a must-try. Serve it at your next event or keep it on hand for those moments when you want something indulgent and delicious!