Name: Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Cuisine: Southern American
Ingredients: 1 box butter or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box); 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 cup caramel sauce; 1/2 cup chopped pecans; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 tbsp butter; 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed; 1/2 tsp vanilla extract; Additional chopped pecans for topping

If you’re in the mood for something rich, buttery, and downright dreamy this Pecan Praline Poke Cake is your new dessert soulmate. Imagine a super moist cake soaked with creamy caramel, then topped with a luscious praline glaze and crunchy pecans. Yeah, it’s as indulgent and irresistible as it sounds. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday feast or just need a little sweet comfort at the end of the day, trust me, this cake is a total showstopper.

Why You’ll Love Pecan Praline Poke Cake

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile:

Works as a fancy party dessert or a laid-back Sunday treat. It’s great warm, chilled, or even the next day (if there’s any left!).

Budget-Friendly:

Uses boxed cake mix and a few simple pantry ingredients to keep it cost-effective but still totally luxurious.

Quick and Easy:

Minimal effort with maximum flavor. It’s basically a dump, poke, pour, and bake situation and who doesn’t love that?

Customizable:

Add chocolate chips, swap the nuts, or drizzle a little bourbon into the caramel sauce. Make it yours!

Crowd-Pleasing:

It’s got all the flavors of pecan pie and the comfort of a cake. Everyone from grandma to the pickiest kid will be back for seconds.

Ingredients in Pecan Praline Poke Cake

This cake tastes like a bakery masterpiece but is surprisingly simple to pull off. Here’s the sweet breakdown:

Yellow Cake Mix: The base that keeps things simple while delivering a moist, fluffy crumb. You can also use butter or vanilla cake mix.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This is what we pour into those poked holes it makes the cake super rich and creamy.
Praline Sauce: A dreamy mixture of brown sugar, butter, and heavy cream that gets poured all over the cake like a sweet blanket.
Pecans: Toasted and chopped for that irresistible crunch and nutty depth.
Vanilla Extract: Adds warmth and rounds out the sweet flavors.
Butter: Because every good Southern-inspired dessert starts with plenty of butter.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. A little prep now = effortless cleanup later.

Bake the Cake:

Prepare and bake the cake according to the package directions. Once baked, remove from oven and let it cool for about 5–10 minutes.

Poke the Cake:

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the warm cake go all the way to the bottom. This is how we get that dreamy filling into every bite.

Pour the Sweetened Condensed Milk:

Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the warm cake, letting it soak into the holes. It might look like a lot, but don’t worry it’s what makes the cake insanely moist and luscious.

Make the Praline Topping:

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine butter, brown sugar, and heavy cream. Let it bubble and thicken slightly, then stir in vanilla and chopped pecans.

Pour and Spread:

Pour that warm praline sauce all over the cake, spreading it evenly. It’ll seep into those holes and coat the top like a warm hug.

Cool and Serve:

Let the cake cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing longer if you want clean, neat cuts. Serve warm or chilled depending on your vibe.

Nutrition Facts:

Servings: 12
Calories per serving: Approximately 400–450

Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an over-the-top treat. Or enjoy it chilled with a hot cup of coffee it’s just as dreamy. This cake also travels well for potlucks, holidays, or casual gatherings, so it’s a great make-ahead option!

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Toast the pecans for extra depth and crunch it really makes a difference.
Use a squeeze bottle or spoon to pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly.
Let it chill overnight for a firmer texture and more developed flavor.
Want a little extra something? Add a pinch of cinnamon to the praline topping.
Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.

FAQ’s

Can I use a homemade cake instead of boxed mix?
Absolutely! Any yellow or butter cake recipe will work beautifully here.
Do I have to poke the cake while it’s hot?
Yes! Poking while it’s warm helps the filling absorb better into the cake.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, and it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have soaked in.
Can I use other nuts besides pecans?
Sure! Walnuts or almonds can be great, but pecans give it that classic Southern praline flavor.
Can I skip the sweetened condensed milk?
It’s essential for the moist, rich texture but you could sub with a homemade caramel sauce if needed.
What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?
The handle of a wooden spoon or a thick straw works perfectly.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Just swap the cake mix for a gluten-free version and check your other ingredients to be safe.
Should I refrigerate the cake after baking?
It’s not required, but storing it in the fridge helps it set up and makes it easier to slice.
How do I toast the pecans?
Just spread them on a baking sheet and toast at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until fragrant.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes! Wrap individual pieces tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Conclusion

Pecan Praline Poke Cake is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm Southern hug in every bite. It’s rich, sweet, and just the right amount of indulgent perfect for holidays, celebrations, or those days when only cake will do. With its caramel-soaked layers and crunchy nut topping, this one’s a keeper you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again. So go ahead, grab your fork, and dive in.