Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Introduction
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a luscious dessert that combines moist yellow cake with a rich, buttery praline sauce and crunchy pecan topping. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion and sure to delight your family and friends.

Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 1 cup pecan pieces
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Step 2: Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions, pour the batter into the pan, and bake for about 30 minutes until golden brown.
- Step 3: Allow the cake to cool slightly, then poke holes all over the surface using the handle of a wooden spoon.
- Step 4: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and butter. Stir continuously until the mixture is melted and smooth.
- Step 5: Pour the warm butter praline sauce evenly over the poked cake, letting it soak into the holes.
- Step 6: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface and sprinkle with pecan pieces.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, toast pecans lightly before sprinkling on top to enhance their nuttiness.
- You can use homemade yellow cake batter instead of a mix for a more personal touch.
- Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the praline sauce for a warm spice note.
- Substitute whipped topping with freshly whipped cream for a fresher taste.
Storage
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the whipped topping fresh. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to soften slightly. This cake is best enjoyed chilled but can be gently reheated without the topping if desired.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of nuts?
Yes, you can substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds depending on your preference or availability.
Is it necessary to poke holes in the cake?
Yes, poking holes allows the praline sauce to soak deep into the cake, making it moist and flavorful throughout.
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Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a luscious dessert featuring a moist yellow cake infused with a rich praline sauce made from sweetened condensed milk, butter, and brown sugar. Topped with whipped cream and crunchy pecans, it offers a delightful combination of creamy, nutty, and sweet flavors perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
Praline Sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter
Toppings
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping
- 1 cup pecan pieces
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Prepare and Bake Cake: Prepare the yellow cake mix following the package instructions. Pour the batter evenly into the greased pan, then bake for approximately 30 minutes until the cake turns golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Cool and Poke Cake: Allow the cake to cool slightly to safely handle. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake’s surface to allow the sauce to soak in evenly.
- Make Praline Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the sweetened condensed milk, brown sugar, and unsalted butter. Stir continuously until the mixture melts completely and is well combined, forming a smooth sauce.
- Pour Sauce Over Cake: Pour the warm praline sauce evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes, saturating the cake for maximum flavor.
- Chill and Add Toppings: Let the cake cool completely to room temperature or chill it to set the sauce. Once cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake. Sprinkle the pecan pieces on top and optionally drizzle with vanilla extract for additional flavor.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh pecan pieces for added crunch and flavor.
- You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a homemade yellow cake batter if preferred.
- Allowing the cake to cool completely before adding whipped topping prevents it from melting.
- Chilling the cake after adding the sauce helps the flavors meld and the sauce to set.
- This cake is rich and sweet, perfect served chilled or at room temperature.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Butter pecan poke cake, praline poke cake, yellow cake dessert, pecan cake, creamy poke cake, sweetened condensed milk dessert, whipped topping cake

