Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

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This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a show-stopping Southern-inspired dessert that’s ultra-moist, easy to make, and loaded with rich pecan flavor. With buttery cake, coconut pecan frosting baked in, and a decadent praline sauce poured over the top, this indulgent poke cake melts in your mouth with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Moist Texture: Thanks to the poke cake method and rich praline sauce.

• Easy to Make: Uses a cake mix and canned frosting for quick prep.

• Crowd Favorite: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, and special occasions.

• Packed with Flavor: Layers of buttery, nutty, and caramel notes.

Ingredients Breakdown

Cake:

• 1 (15 oz) box butter pecan cake mix: The base of the cake, offering buttery, nutty flavor.

• 1 (16 oz) can coconut pecan frosting: Mixed into the batter for added moisture and rich texture.

• 4 large eggs: Provide structure and richness.

• 3/4 cup vegetable or canola oil: Adds moisture and tenderness.

• 1 cup milk: Enhances flavor and improves texture.

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Adds crunch and toasty flavor throughout the cake.

Praline Sauce:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk: Sweet, creamy base that soaks into the cake.

• 1/4 cup butter: Richness and smooth texture.

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans: Classic praline crunch and nutty flavor.

Tips for Success

• Don’t skip the frosting in the batter: It adds moisture and a deep caramel-pecan flavor.

• Use full-fat sweetened condensed milk for the richest praline texture.

• Let the cake rest: The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes as the sauce soaks in.

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream when serving for extra indulgence.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store covered in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.

• Freezer: Freeze slices in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes, yellow or butter cake mix can be used in place of butter pecan, though flavor may vary slightly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. In fact, this cake tastes even better the next day as the sauce has more time to soak in.

Is this cake overly sweet?

The richness is balanced by the nuts and the coconut frosting, but it is a sweet dessert. You can cut back slightly on the praline sauce if desired.

Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 servings 1x

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Description

This decadent Southern-inspired dessert combines the rich, buttery flavor of butter pecan cake with a luscious homemade praline sauce. Poked and drenched with sweetened condensed milk and crunchy pecans, every bite is moist, nutty, and irresistibly sweet. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or anytime you crave something indulgent and comforting.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 (15 oz) box butter pecan cake mix

• 1 (16 oz) can coconut pecan frosting

• 4 large eggs

• 3/4 cup vegetable or canola oil

• 1 cup milk

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1/4 cup butter

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

2. Prepare the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, oil, and milk. Mix until smooth and well blended. Fold in 1/2 cup chopped pecans.

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3. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. Poke the Cake

Allow the cake to cool for 5–10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the top of the cake to allow the praline sauce to soak in.

5. Make the Praline Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the sweetened condensed milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is warm and thickened. Add the chopped pecans and stir to combine.

6. Pour Sauce Over the Cake

While the sauce is still warm, slowly pour it over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Use a spatula to spread the sauce evenly across the top.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool completely so the praline topping sets. Slice and serve at room temperature or chilled.

Notes

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delicious, comforting dessert that delivers everything you love about Southern baking — simplicity, richness, and unforgettable flavor. Perfect for your next gathering or as a weekend treat!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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