Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Welcome to my kitchen, where we’re diving into the delicious world of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake! This decadent dessert is a true crowd-pleaser, combining the rich flavors of butter, pecans, and praline in one irresistible treat. Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests with this mouthwatering recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a must-try:

1. The perfect balance of buttery, nutty, and sweet flavors

2. Easy to make with simple ingredients

3. Great for special occasions or casual gatherings

4. A guaranteed hit with friends and family

5. Can be prepared in advance for convenience

Ingredients

For the cake:

– 1 box of yellow cake mix

– 3 large eggs

– 1 cup of water

– 1/2 cup of vegetable oil

– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

For the praline topping:

– 1 cup of chopped pecans

– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter

– 1 cup of brown sugar

– 1/4 cup of heavy cream

– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.

3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. While the cake is baking, prepare the praline topping. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

5. Add the brown sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract to the melted butter. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

6. Stir in the chopped pecans and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.

7. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.

8. Pour the warm praline topping over the cake, making sure it fills the holes and spreads evenly.

9. Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.

Serving Suggestions

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level with a few serving suggestions:

– Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream

– Drizzle with caramel sauce for an extra indulgent touch

– Garnish with additional chopped pecans for added crunch

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Here are some variations you can try:

– Swap the yellow cake mix for a butter pecan cake mix for an extra nutty flavor

– Use walnuts or almonds instead of pecans for a different twist

– Add a sprinkle of sea salt to the praline topping for a sweet and salty contrast

Pro Tips for Success

Want to ensure your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake turns out perfectly every time? Follow these tips:

– Make sure to poke the holes in the cake while it’s still warm to allow the praline topping to soak in

– Use real vanilla extract for the best flavor

– Toast the pecans before adding them to the praline topping for an extra depth of flavor

FAQs

1. Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cake and praline topping ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.

2. How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

3. Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake (without the praline topping) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding the topping.

4. Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different nuts to suit your taste preferences.

5. Can I use a homemade cake recipe instead of a cake mix?

Yes, you can use your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe as a base for this poke cake.

Conclusion

There you have it – a delectable Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Indulge in the rich flavors of butter, pecans, and praline in every bite of this irresistible dessert. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this recipe, and get ready to be hailed as the dessert champion at your next gathering!