Decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re a fan of rich, buttery flavors combined with the irresistible crunch of pecans and the sweet temptation of praline, then the Decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is about to become your new favorite dessert. This luscious cake is the perfect way to impress your family and friends with its moist texture, decadent butteriness, and that signature gooey praline center that bursts through every bite. It’s a celebration of classic southern flavors wrapped up in a beautifully simple yet elegant cake that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in building the perfect harmony of texture and flavor. From the all-purpose flour that forms the tender crumb to the toasted pecans delivering crunch and nuttiness, every component contributes something special.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides a sturdy yet soft base for the cake’s structure and crumb.
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly without overpowering the buttery notes.
• 1 tbsp baking powder: Makes sure the cake rises just right for that fluffy texture.
• ½ tsp salt: Balances out sweetness, highlighting the nutty flavors.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Infuses the cake with rich, creamy flavor and moisture.
• 3 large eggs (room temperature): Binds the ingredients together and adds a tender crumb.
• 1 cup whole milk: Keeps the cake moist and adds a subtle richness.
• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted): Introduces a toasty crunch and deep flavor in every bite.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted): Essential for creating a silky praline topping that melts into the cake.

How to Make Decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add the softened butter, eggs, and whole milk, mixing until the batter is smooth and creamy. The key here is to avoid overmixing; just blend until everything comes together to keep your cake tender and light.

Step 2: Toast the Pecans

While your batter rests, give your chopped pecans a quick toast in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toasting intensifies the nuts’ flavor, releasing their natural oils and adding a delightful crunch that makes the praline topping irresistible.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your greased dish, smoothing the top evenly. Bake for about 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should have a delicate golden hue and a spongy feel to it.

Step 4: Create the Poke Cake Praline Effect

Once the cake cools slightly but is still warm, gently poke holes all over its surface using the handle of a wooden spoon. This is the magic step where the praline mixture will seep in, infusing the cake with that signature decadence.

Step 5: Make the Butter Pecan Praline Topping

Mix the sifted powdered sugar with the toasted pecans and a touch of softened butter until you reach a spreadable paste. Pour this luscious mixture over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps deep into the holes, creating moist pockets bursting with buttery pecan goodness.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

For the ultimate experience, refrigerate the cake for at least an hour. This allows the praline topping to set beautifully, and the flavors to meld, delivering that iconic rich, buttery, and nutty taste every time.

How to Serve Decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Garnishes

To elevate your Decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, sprinkle a handful of extra toasted pecans on top just before serving. You might also add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement the cake’s richness with a touch of lightness and shine.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with simple, refreshing sides. Think vanilla ice cream, lightly spiced cinnamon apples, or a fresh berry compote. These accompaniments bring balance and add an extra burst of flavor that complements the buttery pecan and praline notes beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the cake in rustic glass trifle bowls to show off the glistening praline seeping through each slice. Alternatively, cut it into small squares and arrange them on a festive platter, garnished with pecan halves and edible flowers for a charming presentation that’ll wow at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the cake moist and the praline topping fresh. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, which gives you plenty of chances to savor every last bite.

Freezing

Want to save some for later? Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When properly wrapped, the cake can be frozen for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

For that just-baked feel, warm slices gently in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds or until slightly heated through. Avoid overheating to preserve the cake’s moisture and prevent the praline topping from becoming tough.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut instead of pecans?

Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds can be a wonderful substitute if pecans aren’t your favorite or if you’re catering to someone with allergies. Just toast them the same way to bring out their flavors.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Not as written, since it uses all-purpose flour. However, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends. Just keep in mind that texture and rise might vary slightly.

Can I make this cake dairy-free?

You can swap unsalted butter for dairy-free margarine and use almond or oat milk instead of whole milk to make it dairy-free. The flavors will still be delicious, though a bit lighter.

How long should I poke the cake after baking?

Wait until the cake is warm but not hot to the touch. Poking too early could cause the cake to crumble, while too late might make it harder for the praline mixture to seep in evenly.

What’s the best pan size to use?

A 9×13-inch baking dish works perfectly, giving the cake a nice, even thickness and enough area to soak the praline topping throughout.

Final Thoughts

If you love desserts that feel both indulgent and comforting, this Decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is absolutely worth adding to your recipe collection. Its luscious layers and buttery pecan richness never fail to bring smiles and requests for seconds. Give it a try on your next baking adventure—you’re going to adore every decadent forkful!

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