Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a rich, gooey, and indulgent dessert that transforms a simple boxed cake mix into something extraordinary. By poking holes into the freshly baked cake and pouring a warm praline glaze over it, the sweetness seeps into every bite, making it irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or potlucks, this cake is quick to prepare but tastes like it came straight from a bakery.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: Uses simple shortcuts like boxed cake mix and canned frosting.
• Irresistibly gooey: The praline glaze sinks into every layer for maximum flavor.
• Crowd-pleaser: Great for parties, gatherings, and special occasions.
• Nutty and sweet: Packed with pecans and buttery richness.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 (15 oz) box butter pecan cake mix
• 1 (16 oz) 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 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

Directions

1. Prepare the oven & pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Make the cake batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk.
   • Mix until smooth and well blended.
   • Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans for added crunch.
3. Bake the cake:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
   • Bake for about 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Poke the cake:
   • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
   • Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke evenly spaced holes across the entire cake surface.
5. Prepare the praline sauce:
   • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
   • Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and mix until smooth and heated through.
   • Add the chopped pecans and stir well.
6. Finish the cake:
   • Pour the warm praline sauce evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
   • Spread gently with a spatula if needed to cover the surface.
7. Cool and serve:
   • Allow the cake to cool before slicing.
   • Serve plain or with a dollop of whipped cream.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Use toasted pecans for extra depth of flavor.
• Swap coconut pecan frosting with buttercream if you prefer less coconut.
• For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream to the praline mixture.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat.
• Add whipped cream and caramel drizzle for a bakery-style presentation.
• Serve chilled for a firmer texture or slightly warm for gooey decadence.

Storage/Reheating

• Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Warm slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds for that gooey texture again.

FAQs

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze tightly wrapped slices for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Butter pecan is best for this recipe, but yellow or vanilla cake mix can work as substitutes.

Conclusion

Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is the perfect combination of convenience and indulgence. With its gooey praline filling and nutty pecan crunch, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Simple, rich, and unforgettable — this cake is a must-try for any dessert lover.

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