Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Introduction
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of buttery pecans and sweet praline sauce with a moist yellow cake. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for gatherings or a special family dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup pecan pieces
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2: Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions, pour the batter into the pan, and bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Step 3: Let the cake cool slightly, then poke holes all over its surface using the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Step 4: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture melts completely and is well combined.
- Step 5: Pour the warm praline sauce evenly over the poked cake, allowing it to soak into the holes for maximum flavor.
- Step 6: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top and sprinkle with pecan pieces to finish.
Tips & Variations
- For an extra flavor boost, toast the pecan pieces lightly before adding them on top.
- Substitute the whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the praline sauce for a warm spice note.
- Use a milk chocolate or caramel sauce drizzle on top for an indulgent variation.
Storage
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it chilled or let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes. Avoid freezing, as the texture of the whipped topping may change.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade yellow cake instead of the mix?
Yes, you can substitute a homemade yellow cake recipe if you prefer. Just be sure it fits the size of the 9×13-inch pan and is sturdy enough to hold the praline sauce without becoming soggy.
What can I use instead of whipped topping?
Homemade whipped cream or mascarpone cheese are great alternatives to store-bought whipped topping. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form for a fresh topping.
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Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This irresistible Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake combines a moist yellow cake with a rich, buttery pecan praline sauce. After baking, the cake is poked to allow a luscious mixture of sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and butter to soak through, creating a decadently moist dessert. Topped with whipped topping and crunchy pecan pieces, this poke cake is perfect for special occasions or anytime you crave a comforting, sweet treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
Praline Sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
Topping
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping
- 1 cup pecan pieces
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Make and Bake Cake: Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into the greased pan and bake for about 30 minutes until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Poke the Cake: Let the cake cool slightly so it’s warm but not hot. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake’s surface to allow the praline sauce to seep in deeply.
- Prepare Praline Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture melts and comes together into a smooth sauce.
- Soak the Cake: Pour the warm praline sauce evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it fills the holes and soaks deeply into the cake layers.
- Chill and Top: Let the cake cool completely to room temperature, then spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface. Sprinkle with pecan pieces for a crunchy, nutty finish.
Notes
- You can substitute toasted pecans for more flavor.
- For a stronger vanilla flavor, add the vanilla extract to the whipped topping before spreading.
- Ensure not to pour the praline sauce while it’s too hot to avoid making the whipped topping melt later.
- This cake is best served chilled but can be enjoyed at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Butter Pecan Poke Cake, Praline Cake, Yellow Cake, Poke Cake, Easy Dessert, Pecan Praline, Sweetened Condensed Milk Cake
