Name: Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box yellow cake mix; 1 cup water; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 3 large eggs; 1 cup pecans (chopped); 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup homemade whipped cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup butter

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Have you ever wondered what makes a dessert truly unforgettable? The answer often lies in the amalgamation of flavors and textures. Enter the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, a decadent treat that combines moist cake, rich praline flavor, and creamy whipped topping to create the perfect delightful experience. This cake isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s the ultimate dessert to impress your family and friends!

Ingredients Needed

To whip up this delicious Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, you’ll need:

1 box yellow cake mix: Simplifies the baking process while providing a lovely fluffy texture.
1 cup water: Moistens the batter for an extra-soft cake.
1/2 cup vegetable oil: Adds richness and enhances moisture.
3 large eggs: Binds the ingredients together and makes the cake rise.
1 cup pecans (chopped): Brings a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
1 cup brown sugar: Provides deep, caramel-like sweetness.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the sauce luxurious and creamy.
1 cup homemade whipped cream: Adds lightness atop the cake.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor profile with a warm aroma.
1/4 cup butter: Contributes to the richness of the sauce.

Feel free to substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free option or use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a unique twist!

Timing

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake can be prepared, baked, and ready to enjoy in about 90 minutes, significantly less time than average complex cake recipes. Here’s the breakdown:

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Cooling and soaking time: 40 minutes

How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake won’t stick and will come out beautifully!

Step 2: Mix the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with 1 cup water, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, and 3 large eggs as per the package directions. Stir until just blended, avoiding overmixing to prevent a dense cake.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly waiting for a slice!

Step 4: Poke the Cake

Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, use a fork to poke holes all over the surface. This step is crucial as it allows the praline sauce to seep in, infusing the cake with flavor.

Step 5: Prepare the Praline Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Stir in 1 cup brown sugar and 1/2 cup heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and simmering. Finally, add 1 cup chopped pecans, and cook for about 2 minutes.

Step 6: Pour and Soak

Pour the warm praline sauce over the poked cake, making sure to cover it evenly. Allow the cake to sit for at least 30 minutes to let it absorb the sauce. Patience is key, and it’ll be worth it!

Step 7: Top with Whipped Cream

Before serving, top the cake with 1 cup of homemade whipped cream and garnish with additional pecans for that extra flair.

Nutritional Information

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is indulgent, and here’s a quick breakdown per serving (assuming 12 servings):

Calories: 360
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 210mg
Total Carbohydrates: 49g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 27g
Protein: 5g

Healthier Alternatives for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Adapting this recipe for a healthier approach doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Here are some alternatives:

Whole wheat flour instead of yellow cake mix for added nutrition.
Greek yogurt can replace some of the oil in the cake for a protein boost.
Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

Consider serving your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or drizzled with caramel sauce for extra sweetness. It also pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect treat for afternoon gatherings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Watch out for these common pitfalls when making your cake:

Overmixing the batter: This can make the cake dense. Mix until just combined for optimal fluffiness.
Skipping the cooling time: Allow for cooling to ensure the cake absorbs the sauce properly.
Not poking enough holes: Ensure the holes are evenly spaced; otherwise, the sauce won’t absorb as well.

Storing Tips for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but just in case!), store your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’re prepping in advance, you can bake the cake and prepare the sauce separately, combining them right before serving.

Conclusion

The Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a delightful experience packed with flavor and texture. With its creamy praline sauce soaking into the moist cake and topped with light whipped cream, it’s bound to be a hit at any gathering. Try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your experience!

Ready to elevate your dessert game? Prepare this cake today and let the compliments roll in!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a dessert that gets its name from the holes poked into the cake after baking, allowing a filling or topping to seep into the cake for added flavor.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake and even the sauce ahead of time. Just assemble it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze this cake?

While the cake can be frozen, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if you do freeze it, wrap it tightly and consume it within a month for the best quality.

How do I know when the cake is done?

A toothpick inserted in the center of the cake should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I substitute pecans with another nut?

Yes, walnuts or almonds would also work well, though they will slightly alter the overall flavor profile.