Let me tell you, in our house, dessert is not just the end of a meal; it’s an event. And nothing quite elevates a simple weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering like the sheer delight of a Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake. From the moment the aroma of toasted pecans and warm butter fills the kitchen, to the first heavenly bite of moist cake soaked in luscious praline sauce, this dessert is pure magic. I stumbled upon this recipe a few years ago, and it has quickly become a family favorite, requested time and time again. Even my pickiest eater, my son, who usually shies away from anything “nutty,” devours this cake with gusto. There’s something undeniably comforting and utterly irresistible about the combination of buttery pecan, sweet praline, and moist cake that just hits all the right notes. If you’re looking for a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress, easy to make, and disappear in minutes, then you’ve come to the right place. Get ready to experience the joy of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake – it’s a slice of heaven you won’t soon forget!

Ingredients

To create this decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and a few key ingredients that bring the signature butter pecan praline flavor to life. Let’s break down everything you’ll need to gather before you begin your baking adventure.

For the Butter Pecan Cake:

1 box (15.25 ounces) Yellow Cake Mix: Using a boxed cake mix is the secret to the ease of this poke cake recipe. It saves time and ensures a consistently moist and tender crumb. Feel free to use your favorite brand of yellow cake mix.
1 cup Water: Water is essential for activating the cake mix and creating the right batter consistency.
1/3 cup Vegetable Oil: Oil contributes to the moistness of the cake. Vegetable oil is a neutral choice, but you can also use canola oil or another light oil.
3 Large Eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to the cake. They help bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s texture.
1 teaspoon Butter Extract: This is a key ingredient for amplifying the butter pecan flavor. Butter extract adds a concentrated buttery note that complements the pecans beautifully.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile and adds a touch of warmth and sweetness.
1 cup Pecan Halves, Toasted and Chopped: Toasted pecans are crucial! Toasting brings out their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the cake. Chopping them ensures they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

For the Praline Poke:

1 can (14 ounces) Sweetened Condensed Milk: Sweetened condensed milk is the star of the praline poke. It creates a rich, creamy, and intensely sweet sauce that soaks into the cake, making it incredibly moist and flavorful.
1 cup Heavy Cream: Heavy cream adds richness and body to the praline sauce. It helps create a luxurious texture that perfectly complements the sweetness of the condensed milk.
1 cup Light Brown Sugar, Packed: Brown sugar contributes to the praline flavor, adding a molasses-like sweetness and depth of flavor that white sugar can’t replicate. Packing it ensures you get the correct amount.
1/2 cup (1 stick) Unsalted Butter: Butter is essential for the praline sauce. It adds richness, flavor, and helps create a smooth, glossy texture. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the sauce.
1 teaspoon Butter Extract: Just like in the cake, butter extract boosts the buttery notes in the praline sauce, enhancing the overall butter pecan praline experience.
1/2 teaspoon Salt: A pinch of salt balances the sweetness of the praline sauce and enhances the other flavors.
1 cup Pecan Halves, Toasted and Chopped: More toasted pecans! These are for the praline poke itself, adding texture and flavor that seeps into the cake along with the sauce.

For the Frosting:

8 ounces Cream Cheese, Softened: Cream cheese frosting provides a tangy and creamy counterpoint to the sweetness of the cake and praline. Make sure it’s softened to room temperature for a smooth frosting.
1 cup (2 sticks) Unsalted Butter, Softened: Butter adds richness and structure to the frosting. Softened butter is crucial for creating a light and fluffy frosting.
4 cups Powdered Sugar: Powdered sugar sweetens and thickens the frosting, creating the perfect consistency for spreading. You may need to adjust the amount slightly depending on your desired frosting thickness.
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the frosting and adds a touch of warmth.
Pinch of Salt: A tiny pinch of salt balances the sweetness of the frosting and enhances the other flavors.
Optional Garnish: Additional Toasted Pecan Halves: For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, you can garnish the frosted cake with more toasted pecan halves.

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating this delectable Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake. Follow these directions carefully for baking success!

Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure your oven rack is positioned in the center for even baking.
Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. You can also use baking spray with flour for easier pan preparation. This will prevent the cake from sticking and ensure easy removal after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Butter Pecan Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, water, vegetable oil, eggs, butter extract, and vanilla extract.
Using an electric mixer (hand mixer or stand mixer), beat the ingredients together on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.
Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. This will ensure all ingredients are well incorporated and the batter is smooth.
Gently fold in the toasted and chopped pecans into the batter using a spatula. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan and spread it evenly to the edges.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and spring back lightly when touched.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before proceeding to the next step. This allows the cake to firm up slightly and makes it easier to poke.

Step 4: Prepare the Praline Poke Sauce

While the cake is cooling, prepare the praline poke sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, butter, butter extract, and salt.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir constantly until the butter is melted and the sugar is dissolved.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce slightly thickens. Be careful not to let it boil vigorously, as it can scorch.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the toasted and chopped pecans.

Step 5: Poke and Soak the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork, poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Make sure to poke the holes deeply enough to reach near the bottom of the cake.
Slowly and evenly pour the warm praline sauce over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. You may not need to use all the sauce, but use as much as you can to thoroughly soak the cake.
Let the cake cool completely in the pan. This is crucial for the praline sauce to fully absorb and the cake to set up properly. Cooling can take at least 2-3 hours at room temperature, or you can speed it up by refrigerating for at least 1 hour.

Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until incorporated. Once all the powdered sugar is added, increase the speed to medium and beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Stir in the vanilla extract and salt. Beat for another minute to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 7: Frost and Garnish

Once the cake is completely cooled, frost it generously with the cream cheese frosting. Spread the frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
If desired, garnish the frosted cake with additional toasted pecan halves for a beautiful and flavorful finishing touch.

Step 8: Chill and Serve

For best results, chill the frosted cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld together even further.
Cut the cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy every delicious bite of your homemade Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake!

Nutrition Facts

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. This is a general guideline.)

Servings: Approximately 12-16 servings

Calories per serving (estimated): 450-550 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

Fat: 25-30g
Saturated Fat: 15-20g
Cholesterol: 100-120mg
Sodium: 250-350mg
Carbohydrates: 50-60g
Sugar: 40-50g
Protein: 4-5g

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a decadent dessert and should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes toasting pecans, mixing batter, and making praline sauce)
Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
Cooling Time: Minimum 2-3 hours (for cake and praline soak) + 30 minutes (after frosting)
Total Time: Approximately 4-5 hours (including cooling time)

While the total time may seem lengthy due to cooling, the active preparation and baking time are relatively short, making this a manageable dessert to create, especially if you plan ahead.

How to Serve

Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance the experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions:

Chilled: The classic way to serve poke cake is chilled straight from the refrigerator. The cold cake and frosting are incredibly refreshing, especially on a warm day.
With a Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is the perfect complement to the rich and nutty flavors of the cake. The cold ice cream melts slightly over the chilled cake, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
With Whipped Cream: If you prefer a lighter topping, a dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a touch of elegance and airy sweetness that balances the richness of the cake.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce: For an extra layer of decadence, drizzle a warm caramel sauce over each slice of cake. The caramel enhances the praline flavors and adds a beautiful visual appeal.
Paired with Coffee or Tea: This cake is a wonderful accompaniment to a cup of hot coffee or tea. The warm beverage cuts through the sweetness and richness of the cake, creating a perfect pairing for dessert time.
For Special Occasions: Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is impressive enough for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, potlucks, or family gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s sure to be a hit.
As a Weeknight Treat: Don’t reserve this cake just for special occasions! It’s easy enough to make for a delightful weeknight treat to elevate any ordinary evening.

Additional Tips for Baking Perfection

To ensure your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake turns out absolutely perfect, here are five helpful tips to keep in mind:

Toast Your Pecans Properly: Toasting pecans is crucial for bringing out their full flavor. Spread pecan halves in a single layer on a baking sheet and toast in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden brown. Watch them carefully to prevent burning. Let them cool completely before chopping.
Don’t Skip the Butter Extract: Butter extract is a key ingredient that intensifies the butter pecan flavor in both the cake and the praline sauce. It adds a concentrated buttery note that elevates the overall taste. While vanilla extract is a good substitute in a pinch, butter extract truly makes this cake shine.
Poke Generously and Soak Thoroughly: Don’t be shy when poking holes in the cake! The more holes you poke, the more praline sauce will seep into the cake, making it incredibly moist and flavorful. Pour the sauce slowly and evenly to ensure it soaks into all the holes.
Cool Completely Before Frosting: Patience is key! Make sure the cake is completely cooled before frosting. Frosting a warm cake will cause it to melt and slide off. Allow ample time for the cake and praline sauce to cool and set completely before adding the cream cheese frosting.
Make Ahead for Convenience: This poke cake is a great make-ahead dessert. You can bake the cake, poke it, and soak it with the praline sauce a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. Frost the cake just before serving for the freshest taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions you might have while making Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake:

Q1: Can I use a different type of cake mix?

A: While yellow cake mix is traditionally used and complements the butter pecan praline flavors beautifully, you can experiment with other cake mixes like butter pecan cake mix for an even more intense pecan flavor, or even a white cake mix for a slightly different taste profile. Just be mindful that flavor and texture may vary slightly.

Q2: Can I use evaporated milk instead of sweetened condensed milk?

A: No, evaporated milk is not a suitable substitute for sweetened condensed milk in this recipe. Sweetened condensed milk is much thicker and sweeter, and it’s essential for creating the rich and creamy praline sauce that soaks into the cake. Evaporated milk will result in a thinner and less sweet sauce.

Q3: Can I make this cake without nuts?

A: While pecans are integral to the butter pecan praline flavor, you can certainly make a delicious poke cake without them. Simply omit the pecans from both the cake batter and the praline sauce. The cake will still be moist and flavorful from the praline soak and cream cheese frosting. You might consider adding a different topping like toasted coconut flakes for texture if desired.

Q4: How should I store leftover Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?

A: Store leftover Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The cold temperature helps maintain the freshness and texture of the cake and frosting. The cake is often even more delicious the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

Q5: Can I freeze Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?

A: Yes, you can freeze Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, although the texture of the frosting may change slightly after thawing. For best results, freeze the cake unfrosted. Wrap the cooled, praline-soaked cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving. You can also freeze individual slices for easier portion control.