This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a moist and tasty treat! It’s filled with a sweet buttery sauce and topped with crunchy pecans for extra flavor.
Honestly, who can resist a cake that’s packed with yummy praline goodness? I love serving it at parties—everyone goes back for seconds, and I often wish I had made two! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yellow Cake Mix: This is the base of your poke cake. If you prefer homemade, you can substitute with a scratch recipe for yellow cake. Gluten-free cake mix works well if needed.
Brown Sugar: Packed brown sugar adds a deep sweetness. You can use light or dark depending on your preference; dark brown sugar has a richer taste. In a pinch, white sugar plus a bit of molasses can work too!
Pecans: Chopped pecans add crunch and flavor. If someone has a nut allergy, try using sunflower seeds or simply omit them for a nut-free version.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is key for the poke part, creating a moist texture. If you’re looking for something lighter, you can use evaporated milk, though it won’t be as sweet.
Frosting: Vanilla or butter pecan frosting enhances flavor. If you want something simpler or healthier, a dusting of powdered sugar is a great alternative.
How Do I Ensure My Cake Stays Moist?
Keeping the cake moist is crucial for this poke cake. Poking holes while the cake is still warm is the key step. This allows the sweetened condensed milk to soak in effectively. Here are few tips to keep in mind:
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes, spacing them about an inch apart.
- Once you pour the sweetened condensed milk, let it sit for at least 20-30 minutes before frosting, so the cake can absorb it.
- Make sure to fully cool the cake before adding frosting to prevent it from melting.
Following these steps ensures a deliciously moist poke cake that everyone will love! Enjoy the bake! 🍰
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients required to make the cake, typically eggs, oil, and water)
For The Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), melted
- 2 cups chopped pecans
For The Poke Mixture:
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional Frosting:
- 1 tub (8 oz) vanilla or butter pecan frosting
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious cake will take about 45 minutes to make, plus time for baking and cooling. Expect around 30-35 minutes for baking the cake, and then let it cool for about an hour before you add the toppings and let it set.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan:
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan so that your cake won’t stick. This is a crucial step to ensure easy removal later!
2. Make the Cake Batter:
Next, prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package instructions. When everything is mixed, pour the batter into your greased baking pan. Spread it out evenly to help it rise uniformly.
3. Bake the Cake:
Now, it’s time to pop the cake into the oven! Bake it for the amount of time specified on the box, usually around 30-35 minutes. To check if it’s done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!
4. Poke Holes in the Cake:
Once the cake is baked, take it out and let it sit for about 5 minutes. While it’s still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or another utensil to poke holes all over the top of the cake. This is where all the yummy goodness will soak in!
5. Mix the Pecan Topping:
In a bowl, combine the brown sugar and melted butter. Then, stir in the chopped pecans until everything is well mixed. This topping will add that delicious praline flavor!
6. Add the Topping to the Cake:
Spread the brown sugar and pecan mixture evenly across the cake, pressing it gently so it settles into the holes. This really adds to the cake’s flavor!
7. Soak with Sweetened Condensed Milk:
Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the top of the cake, making sure it gets into all the holes. This will keep your cake nice and moist!
8. Let It Cool Down:
Allow your cake to cool completely in the baking pan. This might take about an hour, but it’s worth it to let all those flavors meld together!
9. Frost the Cake (Optional):
When the cake is fully cooled, you can spread frosting over the top if you choose. If you love pecans, feel free to sprinkle some extra chopped ones on top for an added crunch!
10. Serve and Store:
Finally, cut the cake into squares and serve it to your guests (or enjoy it yourself!). Be sure to cover any leftovers and store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is irresistibly moist and bursting with flavor! I hope you enjoy making and sharing it! 🍰
Can I Use a Different Cake Mix for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While yellow cake mix is traditional, you can use any flavor you like—like chocolate or spice cake—for a fun twist. Just adjust the toppings to complement the flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Poke Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To keep the cake from drying out, cover it with plastic wrap before sealing. Simply let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving to soften.
Is There a Way to Make This Cake Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free yellow cake mix. Just follow the package directions for the best results! The poke and topping methods will work the same regardless of the mix used.
Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This cake actually tastes better when made a day in advance, as it gives the flavors time to meld together. Just make sure to cover it tightly so it stays moist!
