Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that’s moist, rich, and bursting with flavor, this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe is a must-try. This easy-to-make cake is loaded with buttery flavor, nutty pecans, and a gooey caramel praline filling that soaks into every bite. It’s the kind of cake that tastes like it came straight from a Southern bakery—sweet, decadent, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re planning a holiday dinner, birthday celebration, or just want something special for a weeknight treat, this poke cake delivers. The beauty of a poke cake lies in its texture—after baking, holes are poked into the warm cake and filled with a luscious sauce, making each slice incredibly moist. Topped with whipped topping, chopped pecans, and a drizzle of caramel, it’s a true showstopper with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Cake

• Incredibly moist and flavorful
• Easy to make with boxed cake mix
• Filled with buttery praline goodness
• Great for feeding a crowd
• Perfect for make-ahead desserts
  

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 1 box butter pecan cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup vegetable oil
  

For the Praline Filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 jar (12 oz) caramel sauce or topping
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  

For the Topping:

• 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted for extra flavor)
• Additional caramel sauce for drizzling
  

Directions

Step 1: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and oil. Mix according to the package directions until well blended. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
3. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 2: Prepare the Praline Filling

1. While the cake is baking, mix the sweetened condensed milk, caramel sauce, and vanilla extract in a bowl until smooth and well combined.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

1. Once the cake is done baking, let it cool for 5–10 minutes, but not completely. Use the end of a wooden spoon or a large straw to poke holes all over the top of the cake, about 1 inch apart.
2. Slowly pour the praline mixture over the cake, letting it fill the holes and soak into the cake. Use a spatula to gently spread the mixture evenly over the surface.

Step 4: Chill and Set

1. Let the cake cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled and set.

Step 5: Add Toppings

1. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake. Sprinkle with chopped pecans and drizzle with extra caramel sauce for that classic praline finish.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

1. Cut the cake into squares and serve chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Don’t Skip the Poking

Make sure you poke deep holes throughout the cake so the filling can reach every bite. A wooden spoon handle works best.

Toast the Pecans

Toasting the pecans enhances their nutty flavor. Simply bake them on a sheet at 350°F for about 5–7 minutes, stirring once halfway through.

Use Thick Caramel Sauce

A thicker caramel sauce will give you a gooier, richer filling. If your sauce is too thin, simmer it for a few minutes to thicken before combining with condensed milk.

Let It Chill

Refrigerating the cake helps all the flavors soak in and makes it easier to slice cleanly.

Flavor Variations

Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the praline filling and the whipped topping for a chocolatey kick.

Maple Pecan Version

Replace caramel sauce with maple syrup and a splash of maple extract for a maple-pecan flavor.

Cream Cheese Frosting

Instead of whipped topping, use a light cream cheese frosting for a richer, tangier finish.

Add a Crunchy Crust

Sprinkle crushed butter pecan cookies on top of the whipped layer for extra crunch.

What to Serve With This Cake?

This rich dessert pairs well with lighter accompaniments:

• Fresh berries or a fruit salad
  
• Vanilla ice cream
  
• A warm cup of coffee or tea
  
• Milk or a light dessert wine like Moscato

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Can I Make This Cake Ahead of Time?

Yes! This cake is perfect for making a day in advance. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to soak in.

How to Store

Cover the cake tightly and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.

Can You Freeze Poke Cake?

Yes, you can freeze this cake before adding the whipped topping. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and top with whipped cream and pecans before serving.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 420
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Sugar: 38g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 320mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a baked cake that has holes poked into it after baking and is filled with a liquid like pudding, sauce, or condensed milk to make it extra moist and flavorful.

2. Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed mix?

Yes. You can use a homemade butter pecan or vanilla cake recipe. Just be sure to bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and follow the same filling and topping steps.

3. Can I use whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

Yes, but keep in mind that whipped cream doesn’t hold up as long as whipped topping. For longer storage, stick to non-dairy whipped topping.

4. Can I make this cake nut-free?

Absolutely. Just skip the pecans or use a nut-free topping alternative. The cake will still be delicious and moist without them.

5. Why is my poke cake soggy?

If your filling is too thin or if too much liquid is added, the cake may become overly soggy. Make sure the caramel mixture is thick and pour it slowly to control the amount.

Related Recipes

• Easy Keto Peanut Butter Cookies 
• Graduation Sugar Cookies
• No Bake Protein Balls

Final Thoughts

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe is the ultimate sweet indulgence. From the rich butter pecan cake to the gooey praline filling and fluffy whipped topping, every layer brings a new level of deliciousness. It’s an easy recipe that looks impressive and tastes like something you’d get from a bakery.

Whether you’re making it for a holiday, potluck, birthday, or just a special family treat, this cake won’t disappoint. It’s the kind of dessert that gets people asking for the recipe—and going back for seconds.

Looking for more indulgent dessert ideas? Explore our collection of sweet treats that are as easy to make as they are to love.