Name: Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: For the Cake:; 1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade yellow cake); 3 large eggs; 1 cup water; 1/3 cup vegetable oil; For the Poke Filling:; 1 cup sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade); 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor); For the Topping:; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/4 cup powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Additional pecans for garnish; Drizzle of caramel sauce; Substitutions; Cake Mix: You can use gluten-free cake mix if you have dietary restrictions.; Sweetened Condensed Milk: Coconut milk or almond milk can be used for a dairy-free version.; Heavy Whipping Cream: For a lighter alternative, consider using whipped coconut cream.

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how a simple poke cake can transform into a delightful dessert that leaves everyone asking for seconds? The answer lies in the magical combination of flavors and textures in a Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake. This indulgent dessert not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a comforting warmth to any gathering. In this blog post, we’ll explore the intricacies of this delicious cake, share tips for perfecting your recipe, and ensure that you can impress your guests with ease.

Ingredients List

Creating a Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake requires a blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering treat. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade yellow cake)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil

For the Poke Filling:
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
For the Topping:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Additional pecans for garnish
- Drizzle of caramel sauce

Substitutions

Cake Mix: You can use gluten-free cake mix if you have dietary restrictions.

Sweetened Condensed Milk: Coconut milk or almond milk can be used for a dairy-free version.
Heavy Whipping Cream: For a lighter alternative, consider using whipped coconut cream.

Timing

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is not only delicious but also quick to prepare. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 90 minutes

This total time is approximately 20% less than the average poke cake recipe, making it a convenient option for last-minute gatherings or family desserts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Beat on medium speed for about 2 minutes until well blended.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the top of the cake, about 1 inch apart. This will create pockets for the filling.

Step 4: Add the Filling

In a bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the poke holes, allowing it to soak in. Sprinkle the chopped pecans on top.

Step 5: Prepare the Topping

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the top of the cake, covering the caramel and pecans.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, drizzle additional caramel sauce and sprinkle more pecans on top for garnish.

Nutritional Information

Understanding the nutritional value of your dessert can help you enjoy it guilt-free. Here’s a breakdown per serving (based on 12 servings):

Calories: 320
Total Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 210mg
Total Carbohydrates: 38g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 22g
Protein: 4g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake a bit healthier, consider the following substitutions:

Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
Reduce Sugar: Cut down the sugar in the cake mix or use a sugar substitute.
Lower Fat Options: Use Greek yogurt in place of some of the oil in the cake mix to reduce fat content without sacrificing moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This cake is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance its appeal:

A La Mode: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
Drizzle with Chocolate: A light drizzle of chocolate sauce can add an extra layer of decadence.

Garnish with Fresh Fruit: Fresh berries or banana slices can add a refreshing touch to each slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls:

Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined.

Not Poking Deep Enough: Ensure you poke holes deep enough for the filling to soak in.
Skipping the Chilling Step: Refrigerating the cake allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness of your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake:

Refrigeration: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: If you want to save some for later, freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

In summary, the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delightful and easy dessert that combines rich flavors and textures in every bite. With its simple preparation and delicious results, this cake is sure to become a favorite at your gatherings. We invite you to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments below, and subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just add the whipped topping on the day of serving for the best texture.

Q2: Is it possible to use other nuts?

A: Absolutely! While pecans are traditional, walnuts or almonds can also work beautifully in this recipe.

Q3: Can I make this cake gluten-free?

A: Yes, simply substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Q4: How do I know when the cake is done baking?

A: The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Q5: What can I use instead of caramel sauce?

A: You can use butterscotch sauce or a homemade caramel sauce made from sugar, butter, and cream for a delightful twist.