Here’s a recipe for a Caramel Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake — a rich, moist cake with caramel and praline flavors, pecans, and a luscious buttercream or caramel topping. It’s perfect for any special occasion or whenever you want something indulgent.
Caramel Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the Cake:
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1 box yellow cake mix (or homemade yellow cake batter)
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Ingredients needed to prepare cake mix (usually eggs, oil, water)
For the Caramel Sauce:
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1 cup packed brown sugar
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1/2 cup butter (1 stick)
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1/4 cup milk or heavy cream
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Praline Pecan Topping:
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1 cup chopped pecans
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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1/4 cup butter
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Buttercream Frosting (optional but recommended):
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1 cup unsalted butter, softened
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3–4 cups powdered sugar
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2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
1. Bake the Cake
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package directions.
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Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
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Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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While the cake is still warm (but not hot), poke holes all over the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer.
2. Make the Caramel Sauce
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In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, butter, and milk.
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Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
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Boil for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
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Immediately pour the warm caramel sauce evenly over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
3. Prepare the Praline Pecan Topping
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In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved and bubbling.
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Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
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Stir in chopped pecans until well coated.
4. Add the Topping
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Sprinkle the praline pecan mixture evenly over the caramel-soaked cake.
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Let the cake cool completely to room temperature.
5. Make the Buttercream Frosting (Optional)
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Beat softened butter until creamy.
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Gradually add powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
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Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
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Beat until light and fluffy.
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Spread the buttercream over the cooled cake.
Serving and Storage
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Serve chilled or at room temperature.
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Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
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Bring to room temperature before serving for best flavor.