There’s nothing quite like the rich, nutty flavor of butter pecan combined with a velvety praline sauce that soaks deep into a moist cake. This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is an absolute delight for anyone who loves indulgent desserts with a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.
Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and Buttery Flavor: The combination of butter pecan and praline creates a decadent and comforting dessert.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The poke cake technique ensures every bite is infused with luscious praline sauce.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a no-fail dessert.
- Customizable: Adapt it to dietary preferences with gluten-free, dairy-free, or low-sugar options.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for family gatherings or special events, this cake is always a hit.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Praline Sauce:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Optional Toppings:
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Whipped cream
- Caramel drizzle
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, chopped pecans, oil, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Prepare the Praline Sauce
- While the cake is baking, heat butter in a saucepan over medium heat until melted.
- Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, cooking until the mixture is smooth and bubbling.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans. Let the sauce cool slightly.
Step 3: Poke and Soak
- Once the cake is baked, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface.
- Pour the warm praline sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes for maximum flavor infusion.
- Let the cake fully cool before applying any toppings.
For more delicious Southern desserts, check out:
Chocolate Cream Cheese Pound Cake – A rich, indulgent treat.
Cream Cheese Filling – Perfect for layering desserts.
Strawberry Waffles – A great pairing for brunch!
Try out this recipe and share your thoughts with us!. Happy baking!
Expert Tips & Variations
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute almond milk and dairy-free butter.
For Extra Moisture: Add a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk before pouring the praline sauce.
Nut Alternatives: Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if desired.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free cake mix in place of the standard mix.
Side Dish Pairings
Classic Pairings
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the buttery, caramelized flavors of the cake.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it balances the richness of the praline sauce.
- Candied Pecans: Sprinkle some on top for extra crunch and sweetness.
Healthy Options
- Greek Yogurt with Honey: A tangy, protein-rich addition to contrast the cake’s sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries bring a delightful hint of tartness.
- Unsweetened Applesauce: A mild, natural sweetness that complements the pecan flavors.
Quick & Easy Sides
- Caramel Popcorn: A fun and crunchy side that echoes the cake’s caramel notes.
- Salted Pretzels: The saltiness enhances the sweetness of the cake.
- Toasted Coconut Chips: A tropical crunch that pairs beautifully with butter pecan flavors.
Beverage Recommendations
- Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Chai Tea Latte: The spices in chai enhance the nutty and caramel flavors.
- Cold Brew with Sweet Cream: A smooth and creamy pairing to complement the cake’s texture.
- Warm Apple Cider: A cozy, autumnal drink that enhances the cake’s depth of flavor.
Dipping Sauces or Condiments
- Salted Caramel Sauce: For those who love extra caramel richness.
- Chocolate Ganache: A decadent contrast to the butter pecan base.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: Adds a warm, natural sweetness.
- Spiced Whipped Cream: Infused with cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra kick.
How to Serve
Serving your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake beautifully can elevate the dessert experience and impress your guests. Here are some ideas to help you present it in the most visually appealing way:
Plating Suggestions
- Slice with Precision: Use a sharp knife to cut clean, even squares. Wipe the knife between cuts for a polished look.
- Use Elegant Plates: A simple white plate can make the rich caramel tones of the cake stand out beautifully.
- Garnish for Flair: Sprinkle chopped pecans, a drizzle of caramel, or a dusting of powdered sugar over the top before serving.
Presentation Enhancements
- Whipped Cream Swirls: Pipe small swirls of whipped cream on each slice for a bakery-style presentation.
- Berry Garnish: Place fresh berries around the plate for a pop of color and refreshing contrast.
- Ice Cream Pairing: Serve with a scoop of vanilla or butter pecan ice cream on the side for an extra indulgent touch.
- Cake Stand Display: Present the whole cake on a decorative cake stand for an inviting table centerpiece.
Serving Temperature
- Warm: Slightly heat each slice before serving to enhance the gooey praline sauce.
- Chilled: For a firmer texture, refrigerate the cake before serving for a refreshing dessert.
No matter how you choose to serve it, this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is sure to impress with its stunning appearance and delicious flavors!
Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration
- Keep the cake in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Freezing
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
- Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to restore freshness.
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake perfectly showcases how pecans and caramelized flavors can elevate a dessert. For another delicious way to enjoy pecans, check out Peach Pecan Baked Brie—a savory-meets-sweet masterpiece.
If you’re a fan of Southern flavors, why limit yourself to just butter pecan?Try this Purple Sweet Potato Pie for a unique and visually stunning treat.
Nutritional Breakdown
Understanding the nutritional value of your dessert can help you make informed choices while enjoying this indulgent treat. Below is an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
- Sodium: 280mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 35g
- Protein: 5g
Key Nutritional Highlights
- Rich in Healthy Fats: Pecans provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Moderate Protein Content: Eggs and pecans add protein to balance the dessert.
- Sugar Content Considerations: While naturally sweet, portion control helps maintain balance.
For a lower-calorie version, consider using sugar substitutes, reducing the caramel drizzle, or opting for low-fat dairy alternatives.
The Ultimate Southern Dessert: Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
A Taste of Southern Hospitality
The flavors and textures found in Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake resonate deeply with the traditions of Southern cuisine, offering a comforting and indulgent experience that reflects the region’s culinary heritage.
Bringing People Together
Its ability to bring people together and evoke feelings of nostalgia makes it an essential component of Southern living, where food serves as a means of connection and celebration.
A Beloved Southern Staple
As such, Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake has earned its place as a beloved staple in the tapestry of Southern desserts, embodying the warmth and hospitality that are synonymous with Southern culture.
FAQs
What is a Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a rich and indulgent dessert featuring a buttery pecan cake base, a luscious praline filling, and a smooth, creamy frosting.
What is it about Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake that makes it so irresistible?
The delectable taste of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake stems from the blend of a rich, buttery cake, a sweet praline sauce, and a velvety frosting, delivering a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
Why is Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake so lovable?
There are seven reasons to love Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, including its indulgent layers, rich history, Southern classic status, impressive presentation, and the opportunity to elevate baking skills.
What is the process for making Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake at home?
To prepare a delightful Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake at home, gather a butter pecan cake mix, sweetened condensed milk, praline sauce, whipped topping, and chopped pecans. The cake is poked with holes and filled with the praline sauce before being topped with the whipped topping and pecans.
What is the history behind Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake has a rich history rooted in Southern baking traditions, with its origins likely tied to the popularity of pecans and pralines in the Southern United States.
What makes Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake a dessert worth trying?
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a must-try dessert because of its delicious flavor, impressive presentation, and the opportunity it provides to showcase baking skills while indulging in a classic Southern treat.
What’s the best way to wow your guests with a homemade Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
You can impress your guests with a homemade Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake by serving up a decadent and visually stunning dessert that captures the essence of Southern living and showcases your baking prowess.
Conclusion
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a dessert that perfectly balances sweetness, texture, and richness, making it an instant favorite for any occasion. Its moist, flavorful bite combined with the buttery praline sauce creates an indulgence that is hard to resist. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration, a family gathering, or simply to satisfy a sweet craving, this cake never disappoints.
A great thing about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adjust it to fit different dietary needs by swapping out ingredients while still maintaining its delicious taste. Plus, with its make-ahead convenience, you can prepare it in advance and enjoy a stress-free dessert experience.
If you loved this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, be sure to try out other pecan and caramel-based desserts on our blog. We’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below, share your feedback, or tag us on social media with your creation. Your input helps us bring you more amazing recipes!
For even more sweet inspiration, explore our collection of dessert recipes, and don’t forget to check out the internal links below for more delicious treats to try next!
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Toothpick
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Praline Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Optional Toppings:
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Whipped cream
- Caramel drizzle
Instructions
Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, chopped pecans, vegetable oil, eggs, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Praline Sauce:
- While the cake is baking, melt the unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Stir in the packed brown sugar and heavy cream, cooking until the mixture is smooth and bubbling.
- Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. Let the sauce cool slightly.
Poke and Soak:
- Once the cake is baked, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface.
- Pour the warm praline sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes for maximum flavor infusion.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding any optional toppings.
Notes
For Extra Moisture: Drizzle sweetened condensed milk over the cake before pouring the praline sauce. Nut Alternatives: Walnuts or almonds can be used in place of pecans.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free cake mix instead of the standard mix.