Looking for a dessert that combines a rich, nutty cake with creamy caramel and a sweet praline topping? This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delicious crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and perfect for any special occasion. With every bite, you’ll enjoy layers of butter pecan cake, caramel-soaked goodness, fluffy cream cheese frosting, and crunchy praline pecans.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix
- 1 cup water
- ⅓ cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the Poke Filling:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- ½ cup chopped pecans
For the Frosting:
- 1 container (8 oz) Cool Whip, thawed
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Praline Topping:
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
Directions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix butter pecan cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Bake: Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.
2️⃣ Make the Poke Filling:
- Poke Holes: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake once cooled.
- Mix and Pour: In a medium bowl, combine sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce. Pour mixture over cake, ensuring it fills the holes. Sprinkle with chopped pecans.
3️⃣ Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat Cream Cheese: In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Add Sugar: Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until combined. Fold in Cool Whip and vanilla extract.
- Spread: Evenly spread the frosting over the top of the cake.
4️⃣ Make the Praline Topping:
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine chopped pecans, brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter.
- Cook: Stir constantly over medium heat until the mixture thickens and bubbles (about 5 minutes).
- Cool and Drizzle: Let cool slightly, then drizzle praline topping over frosting.
5️⃣ Chill and Serve:
- Refrigerate: Chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy this indulgent treat!
FAQ
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Yes! This cake actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours, so it’s ideal to make it the day before serving.
Q: Can I use homemade caramel sauce?
A: Absolutely! Using homemade caramel sauce will add a rich, personalized flavor to the cake.
Q: How should I store this cake?
A: Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Yes, this cake can be frozen for up to 1 month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and thaw in the fridge when ready to serve.
Conclusion
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake combines the best of creamy, crunchy, and nutty flavors in one irresistible dessert. With its butter pecan base, caramel-soaked poke filling, creamy frosting, and praline pecan topping, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simply because you’re in the mood for something delicious, this poke cake will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy every decadent bite!