This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves rich, decadent flavors. With layers of buttery pecan cake, sweetened condensed milk, caramel topping, and a praline sauce that’s irresistibly creamy, this cake is nothing short of spectacular. Perfect for any occasion or just as an indulgent treat!
Why You’ll Love This Cake
Rich and indulgent: The combination of butter pecan cake, sweetened condensed milk, and caramel creates a luxurious dessert.
Praline topping: The buttery praline sauce with chopped pecans gives this cake a crunchy, sweet finish.
Easy to make: With a simple cake mix, this cake comes together quickly without compromising on flavor.
Ingredients
1 box butter pecan cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
1 jar (12 oz) caramel ice cream topping
1 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Prepare and Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the butter pecan cake mix according to the directions on the box, then pour the batter into the prepared dish.
Bake the cake as directed, usually for around 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Poke Holes in the Cake
Once the cake is baked and while it’s still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Be sure to poke deep enough to allow the toppings to soak in.
Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the cake, making sure it fills the holes and soaks into the cake. This creates a wonderfully moist base.
Drizzle the Caramel
Drizzle the caramel ice cream topping evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes and mix with the sweetened condensed milk for an extra layer of sweetness.
Make the Praline Sauce
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans. The pecans will add a nice crunch and nutty flavor to the topping.
Pour the Praline Sauce
Pour the warm praline mixture over the cake, spreading it evenly across the top. Let it sink into the cake and settle into the holes for a rich, praline topping.
Let the Cake Cool
Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. This gives the flavors time to meld together and ensures the cake is easy to slice.
Prep Time:
30 minutes
Calories:
Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Serving Suggestions
Top with whipped cream: For an extra touch of creaminess, serve slices of this cake with a dollop of whipped cream.
Pair with coffee or dessert wine: This cake pairs perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or even a glass of dessert wine like port or a sweet Riesling.
Serve at special occasions: It’s an excellent choice for birthdays, holidays, or any gathering where you want to impress your guests.
Tips for Success
Don’t overbake the cake: Be sure to check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time, as cakes can vary in bake times.
Use fresh pecans: For the best flavor, use fresh, chopped pecans. You can toast them lightly in a pan for a richer nutty flavor.
Let the cake cool completely: For the best texture and flavor, allow the cake to cool completely before serving. This allows all the layers to set.
Storage
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
You can also refrigerate the cake for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Why This Cake Works
This cake is a wonderful combination of textures and flavors. The butter pecan cake is moist and rich, while the sweetened condensed milk and caramel layers infuse the cake with sweetness. The praline topping adds a luscious, creamy texture with crunchy pecans, making every bite a truly indulgent experience. Perfect for any occasion, this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Enjoy your decadent, buttery, and sweet Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake—an irresistible dessert that everyone will love!