Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake: A Sweet Sensation
If you’re after a dessert that marries moist cake, buttery pecans, and a velvety praline sauce, look no further than this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake! It’s the ideal choice for holidays, potlucks, or simply whenever you crave a decadent treat that will leave a lasting impression.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: The sweetened condensed milk and buttery sauce ensure each slice is melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- Rich and Decadent: This cake strikes a perfect balance of buttery, nutty, and sweet flavors.
- Easy to Make: Starting with a boxed cake mix makes this dish simple, but it tastes entirely homemade.
- Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday feast, this cake will always steal the show.
Recipe: Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 (15-ounce) box butter pecan cake mix
- 1 (16-ounce) can coconut pecan frosting
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup vegetable or canola oil
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
For the Sauce:
- 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, oil, and milk. Beat with an electric mixer on medium speed until the batter is smooth and well-combined.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans to add a delightful crunch.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 3: Prepare the Praline Sauce
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, mix together the sweetened condensed milk, butter, and chopped pecans.
- Stir continuously until the butter melts and the sauce becomes smooth. Then, remove it from heat.
Step 4: Poke and Pour
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Slowly pour the warm praline sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. If necessary, use a spatula to spread the sauce around.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let the cake cool completely, then cover it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor.
- Before serving, feel free to sprinkle some additional chopped pecans on top for that extra crunch.
Tips for Success
- Let the Sauce Soak In: After pouring the sauce over the cake, wait a few minutes to allow it to absorb into the holes properly.
- Customize the Nuts: Feel free to replace the pecans with walnuts or almonds for a delightful twist.
- Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal dessert to prepare in advance.
- Add a Whipped Topping: A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel adds an extra layer of deliciousness.
Why This Cake Stands Out
The Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake does more than just satisfy your sweet tooth; it’s a true showstopper! The luscious praline sauce elevates the dish, turning a simple cake into a masterpiece. Each slice is a perfect harmony of creamy, nutty, and buttery flavors that will keep your guests coming back for more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Absolutely! A yellow or vanilla cake mix works wonderfully in place of butter pecan if it’s unavailable.
Q2: What can I use instead of coconut pecan frosting?
If coconut pecan frosting is hard to find, consider cream cheese frosting or even omit it for a less sweet cake.
Q3: How do I store the cake?
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh.
Q4: Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before enjoying.
Q5: Can I add toppings?
Definitely! Whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even a sprinkle of toasted coconut would make fantastic additions!