Have you ever wondered how a simple poke cake can transform into a show-stopping dessert that impresses both family and friends? The Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is not just another dessert; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that brings together the rich nuttiness of butter pecans and the sweetness of praline. With its moist cake base and indulgent topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Let’s dive into how you can create this masterpiece in your kitchen!

Ingredients List

To make this delectable Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Cake Ingredients:

• 1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade yellow cake)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)

Praline Topping:

• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)

Substitutions:

• Cake mix: Use a gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free option.
• Butter: Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
• Heavy cream: Replace with almond milk or oat milk for a lighter topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Mix until smooth.
3. Add Pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans.
4. Bake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 2: Create the Poke Holes

1. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes after baking.
2. Poke Holes: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake, about 1 inch apart.

Step 3: Prepare the Praline Topping

1. Cook the Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream. Stir until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Add Flavor: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
3. Pour Over Cake: Pour the warm praline mixture over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
2. Frost and Garnish: In a separate bowl, mix powdered sugar with a little water to create a glaze. Drizzle over the cake and top with additional chopped pecans.
3. Slice and Serve: Cut into squares and serve!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content per serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 50mg
• Sodium: 200mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 38g
• Dietary Fiber: 1g
• Sugars: 20g
• Protein: 3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake a bit healthier, consider these modifications:

• Reduce Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar in the cake mix and praline topping.
• Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the cake mix with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Greek Yogurt: Replace some of the oil with Greek yogurt to reduce fat while maintaining moisture.

Serving Suggestions

The Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake can be served in various delightful ways:

• Ala Mode: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• Fresh Berries: Pair with fresh strawberries or raspberries to add a tart flavor that balances the sweetness.
• Coffee Pairing: This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for brunch or afternoon tea.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
• Not Poking Enough Holes: Ensure you poke enough holes for the praline to soak in, enhancing the flavor.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow the cake to cool before adding the topping to prevent it from melting away.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

To keep your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

In summary, the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a quick, delicious dessert that combines rich flavors with a moist texture. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion or just a weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments below! Subscribe for more delightful recipes and cooking tips.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! You can experiment with chocolate or spice cake mixes for a unique twist.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Simply use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Just store it covered in the refrigerator and add the praline topping before serving.