Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

 Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe: A Southern Delight That Melts in Your Mouth

If you're craving a dessert that's rich, buttery, and loaded with Southern charm, this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is exactly what you need. With its moist texture, indulgent pecan praline glaze, and irresistible flavor, this cake is a showstopper at potlucks, holidays, or any special occasion. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make — thanks to a clever shortcut using boxed cake mix.

The magic of this cake lies in the poke cake method, where you create small holes in the freshly baked cake to allow a luscious butter pecan praline sauce to seep deep inside. Each bite is infused with buttery sweetness and nutty richness, making it impossible to resist.

Ready to create a dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds? Let’s dive in!

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Ingredients for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Each ingredient plays a crucial role in making this cake moist, flavorful, and unforgettable.

For the Cake:

1 box Butter Pecan Cake Mix – The perfect shortcut for a rich, buttery base with hints of pecan flavor.

3 large eggs – Provides structure and helps the cake rise.

1 cup milk – Enhances moisture and creates a tender crumb.

½ cup melted butter – Adds richness and amplifies the buttery flavor.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Balances sweetness with a warm aroma.

For the Praline Glaze:

1 cup butter (2 sticks) – The foundation of the rich praline sauce.

1 cup brown sugar (packed) – Adds deep caramel-like sweetness.

½ cup heavy cream – Ensures a silky, pourable consistency.

1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Infuses warmth into the praline glaze.

1 cup chopped pecans – Delivers that signature crunch and nutty flavor.

For the Topping (Optional but Recommended):

Whipped cream or Cool Whip – Adds a light, airy contrast to the rich cake.

Extra chopped pecans – For added crunch and visual appeal.

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Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the Butter Pecan Cake Mix, eggs, milk, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and free of lumps.

3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Bake for 28-32 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

2. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for 5-10 minutes.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

1. Using the handle of a wooden spoon (or a skewer), poke holes all over the cake.

2. Be sure to space the holes about 1 inch apart to allow the praline glaze to seep in evenly.

Step 4: Prepare the Butter Pecan Praline Glaze

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt 1 cup butter.

2. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until the mixture becomes smooth and bubbly.

3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.

Step 5: Glaze the Cake

1. Slowly pour the warm praline glaze over the poked cake, ensuring it fills the holes and covers the surface.

2. Use a spatula to gently spread the glaze to ensure even coverage.

Step 6: Cool and Add Toppings

1. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding toppings.

2. Once cooled, spread whipped cream or Cool Whip over the top.

3. Sprinkle with extra chopped pecans for a finishing touch.

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Why This Recipe is Loved

Easy Preparation: Using boxed cake mix saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Moist and Flavorful: The praline glaze soaks into every bite, making the cake incredibly tender.

Perfect for Gatherings: This cake serves a crowd and stays delicious even after sitting for a while.

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Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

✅ Warm the glaze just right: Don’t let the praline sauce boil for too long — this can cause it to harden instead of staying rich and syrupy.

✅ Poke deep but not too wide: Use a wooden spoon handle to create holes deep enough for the glaze to penetrate but narrow enough to keep the cake’s structure intact.

✅ Chill before serving: Allowing the cake to chill for at least 1 hour helps the glaze fully absorb into the cake, enhancing flavor and texture.

✅ Add a sprinkle of sea salt: For a sweet-and-salty twist, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the praline glaze.

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Serving Suggestions

This decadent dessert pairs beautifully with:

Vanilla ice cream for a cool, creamy contrast.

Fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a tart balance.

A steaming cup of coffee or spiced tea for a comforting finish.

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Conclusion: A Cake That’s Sure to Impress

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is the ultimate combination of convenience and indulgence. With its buttery richness, caramelized praline topping, and tender cake base, it’s a dessert that brings Southern warmth straight to your table. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or treating yourself to a sweet reward, this cake is sur

e to become a favorite.

So, grab your ingredients and prepare to wow your family and friends with this unforgettable dessert. One bite, and they'll be hooked!