Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy flavors of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, a decadent dessert that combines buttery pecans, caramel sweetness, and fluffy whipped cream atop a moist cake base. Perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or simply treating yourself, this dessert is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- Butter pecan cake mix: 1 box
- Large eggs: 3
- Water: 1 cup
- Vegetable oil: ½ cup
- Sour cream: ½ cup
For the Caramel Poke Filling:
- Caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought): 1 cup
- Sweetened condensed milk: ½ cup
For the Topping:
- Heavy whipping cream: 1 cup
- Powdered sugar: ¼ cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 tsp
- Chopped pecans (toasted): 1 cup
- Crushed pralines (optional): ½ cup
Instructions
Prepare the Cake
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Mix the Batter: Combine the cake mix, eggs, water, vegetable oil, and sour cream in a large mixing bowl. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes until smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Slightly: Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes.
2. Make the Poke Filling
- Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the caramel sauce and sweetened condensed milk until well blended.
3. Poke the Cake
- Create Holes: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake.
- Pour Filling: Slowly pour the caramel mixture over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
- Cool Completely: Let the cake cool completely before adding the topping.
4. Make the Whipped Cream Topping
- Whip the Cream: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed until stiff peaks form.
5. Assemble the Cake
- Add the Topping: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the cooled cake.
- Garnish: Sprinkle toasted chopped pecans and optional crushed pralines over the whipped cream.
6. Chill and Serve
- Refrigerate: Chill the cake for at least 1 hour to set the flavors.
- Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled.
Notes
- Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans intensifies their flavor. Bake at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the cake a day in advance for enhanced flavors.
- Customize the Toppings: Add toffee bits, chocolate chips, or extra caramel drizzle for variety.
- Homemade Caramel: Homemade caramel sauce elevates the flavor if you have the time.
- Chill for Better Flavor: Letting the cake chill allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American