Caramel Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Caramel Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is more than just a cake—it’s a dessert experience. The poke method allows sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce to seep into every bite, ensuring moistness and flavor throughout. The creamy filling adds a velvety richness, while the pecans bring a satisfying crunch. Whether you serve it for a family celebration or a potluck, this cake always steals the spotlight.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 box butter pecan cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as instructed on the box)

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 1 cup caramel sauce

• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened

• 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1 cup chopped or halved pecans (toasted or glazed)

• 1 cup whipped topping or homemade whipped cream

• Extra caramel sauce for drizzling

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the butter pecan cake according to box directions in two 8-inch round pans. Let the cakes cool completely.

2. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the top of both cooled cake layers.

3. Pour sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cakes, allowing it to soak into the holes.

4. Drizzle caramel sauce over both layers, then refrigerate for 30 minutes.

5. In a bowl, beat the cream cheese with powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth. Fold in whipped topping to make a creamy filling.

6. Spread the cream cheese filling over one cake layer. Place the second layer on top.

7. Frost the top with whipped topping. Garnish with pecans and an extra drizzle of caramel sauce.

8. Chill before slicing and serving for the best results.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 10–12 servings. Total time required is about 55 minutes, including baking, cooling, and assembling.

Variations

• Use chocolate cake mix instead of butter pecan for a turtle-inspired version.

• Add a layer of chocolate ganache between the cakes for extra richness.

• Swap pecans for walnuts or almonds if preferred.

• Mix in toffee bits with the cream cheese filling for added crunch.

• Make it extra festive with a sprinkle of sea salt over the caramel drizzle.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more as it chills. This cake is best served cold, so reheating isn’t necessary. For longer storage, freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this cake a day ahead?

Yes, this cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld.

Do I need to toast the pecans?

Toasting enhances their flavor and crunch, but you can use raw pecans if you prefer.

Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely, homemade caramel adds a richer flavor than store-bought.

What if I don’t have butter pecan cake mix?

You can substitute vanilla or yellow cake mix and add 1/2 cup chopped pecans to mimic the flavor.

How do I keep the cake from becoming soggy?

Allow the condensed milk to soak in before adding the filling, and don’t over-pour caramel sauce.

Can I make this cake in a 9×13 pan instead of layers?

Yes, simply bake the cake in a 9×13 pan and follow the same poke and topping method.

Can I substitute whipped cream for whipped topping?

Yes, but stabilize the whipped cream with gelatin or powdered sugar so it holds its shape.

Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix and confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free.

What should I serve with this cake?

It pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Caramel Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a dreamy dessert layered with moist cake, creamy filling, caramel drizzle, and crunchy pecans. Easy to prepare yet stunning in presentation, it’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or simply when you want to indulge. Serve chilled and watch it disappear slice by slice.

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