What if you could enjoy the rich flavors of butter pecan praline in a single, decadent dessert? Enter the butter pecan praline poke cake — a moist, creamy, and utterly irresistible treat that combines the best of classic Southern desserts.
Unlike traditional cakes that require hours of baking and decorating, this version comes together in just 90 minutes with minimal effort. And here’s the kicker: it delivers maximum flavor without compromising on texture or indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or craving something sweet, this recipe promises to be your new go-to.
Let’s dive into what makes this cake so special — and how you can make it perfectly at home.
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flavorful butter pecan praline poke cake :
For the Cake:
- 1 (18.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Butter Pecan Praline Sauce:
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish:
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Extra chopped pecans
Substitutions & Tips:
- Use dairy-free butter and coconut cream for a vegan-friendly version.
- For a lighter base, use yellow cake mix instead of white cake mix.
- Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the sauce for extra warmth.
Timing: Bake It in Less Than 2 Hours!
| Step | Time |
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 60 minutes |
| Total Time | 90 minutes |
This butter pecan praline poke cake is surprisingly quick compared to other layered desserts. In fact, it takes 20% less time than most homemade layer cakes that require frosting and elaborate decoration. Simply poking holes, pouring sauce, and letting it soak in while chilling is the secret to its enchantment.
Perfect for last-minute gatherings or when you want a show-stopping dessert without the hassle.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Set aside a 9 x 13-inch baking pan that has been greased.
Pro Tip: Line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal and clean slicing.
Step 2: Mix the Batter
Mix the cake mix, eggs, oil, water, and vanilla in a big bowl. Beat until smooth and well incorporated.
Evenly distribute the batter after pouring it into the prepared pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool slightly but remain warm for poking.
Step 4: Make the Praline Sauce
Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat while the cake bakes. Stir in brown sugar, cream, salt, and vanilla. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans.
Step 5: Poke and Pour
Make holes in the heated cake with the wooden spoon handle. Pour the hot praline sauce evenly on top, letting it soak into the layers of the cake.
Let cool completely before serving.
Chef’s Note: Don’t skip the poke step! This ensures every bite is soaked in that buttery praline goodness.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 slice, assuming 12 servings) contains approximately:
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 32 g |
The richness of this butter pecan praline poke cake comes from natural sugars and fats, making it a perfect occasional indulgence. For reference, it’s comparable in calories to a slice of cheesecake but offers more texture contrast due to the crunchy praline topping.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
Want to lighten things up without sacrificing flavor? Here are smart swaps:
- Use Applesauce : Replace half the oil with unsweetened applesauce to cut fat.
- Low-Sugar Option : Substitute brown sugar with coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener.
- Dairy-Free : Opt for plant-based butter and almond milk instead of heavy cream.
- Nut Boost : Add walnuts or almonds for extra crunch and protein.
These tweaks keep your butter pecan praline poke cake delicious while offering better nutritional value — ideal for health-conscious dessert lovers.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile cake pairs beautifully with:
- A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for extra creaminess.
- Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries to balance sweetness.
- For a sophisticated touch, sprinkle with powdered sugar and mint leaves.
Try serving warm with coffee or spiced chai for a cozy afternoon treat!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure perfection every time:
- Poking Cold Cake : Always poke the cake while it’s still warm to allow proper absorption.
- Overmixing Batter : Keep mixing to a minimum to avoid a dense texture.
- Skipping Rest Time : Letting the cake rest after pouring the sauce enhances flavor infusion.
- Using Low-Quality Pecans : Fresh, high-quality nuts make a noticeable difference in taste.
By following these tips, your butter pecan praline poke cake will always come out moist, flavorful, and picture-perfect.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
Remaining food can be kept for up to two days at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer storage:
- Refrigerate: Up to 5 days (let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving).
- Freeze: Each slice should be tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil before being frozen for up to two months..
Want to prep ahead? Make the cake base a day in advance and add the praline sauce just before serving to maintain optimal texture.
Conclusion: Your New Favorite Dessert Awaits
This butter pecan praline poke cake is more than just a dessert — it’s a celebration of Southern comfort and culinary creativity. With its rich flavors, easy preparation, and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s a must-add to your recipe collection.
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FAQs
Q1: Is it possible to use a different kind of cake mix?
Yes! White or spice cake mix works well, though the flavor profile may shift slightly.
Q2: How do I store leftover praline sauce?
Cooled sauce can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days in an airtight container. Reheat gently before using.
Q3: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
Q4: What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?
You can use two 9-inch round pans or an 8×8-inch pan with adjusted baking times.
Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but use a larger pan or divide between two 9×13-inch pans for even baking.
