If you are ready to indulge in a dessert that perfectly marries nostalgia and rich flavors, then you must try the Sweet Bliss With Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe. This cake is more than just a treat — it’s a celebration of buttery cake infused with luscious praline sauce, crowned with whipped topping and drizzled caramel. With every bite, the crunchy pecans add texture and a nutty burst that turns simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert that feels like a warm, comforting hug from the South.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is surprisingly straightforward, yet each element plays a crucial role in making this dessert sing. From the sweetness in the brown sugar to the buttery crunch of pecans, every component enhances the classic butter pecan flavor and the silky texture of the praline sauce.
- Butter pecan cake mix: This mix is the flavorful foundation, bringing that iconic buttery nutty essence.
- Eggs, oil, and water: Essential for baking the cake to a moist, tender perfection.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Adds richness to the praline sauce without overpowering its balance.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Provides deep caramel sweetness critical for the praline flavor.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): Creates the sauce’s creamy, smooth texture.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A subtle, aromatic note that complements the nutty pecans.
- Chopped pecans (1 1/4 cups total): Sprinkled inside and on top, these add delightful crunch and flavor.
- Whipped topping (8 ounces, thawed): Lightens the cake with creamy sweetness and a fluffy finish.
- Caramel sauce (1/2 cup): The rich drizzle that seals the deal with sticky, irresistible goodness.
How to Make Sweet Bliss With Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Butter Pecan Cake
Begin by preparing the butter pecan cake according to the instructions on the box, using a 9×13-inch pan for that perfect shape and baking time. Once baked, it’s important the cake is still warm because that warmth allows the praline sauce to seep deeply when poured.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, gently poke holes evenly all over the surface of the warm cake. This step is essential for creating those little pockets that soak up the luscious praline sauce, making every bite moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Prepare the Praline Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter first. Then stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle boil. Stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Finish the sauce by removing it from heat and mixing in the vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
Step 4: Pour and Cool
Slowly pour the warm praline sauce across the entire cake, allowing it to fill each hole you’ve poked. Let the cake cool fully so the sauce sets naturally and the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Add the Topping and Garnish
Once cooled, spread the whipped topping evenly to provide a creamy contrast to the rich sauce. Drizzle the caramel sauce on top, then sprinkle with extra chopped pecans for that inviting crunch and beauty before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Sweet Bliss With Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your serving extra special, consider adding a few whole pecans artfully arranged on top or a light dusting of cinnamon. These little garnishes not only enhance the look but bring an inviting aroma and a final flavor pop to this dessert.
Side Dishes
This decadent poke cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to balance the sweetness. You could also serve it alongside fresh fruit like sliced pears or apples for a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve this cake in clear glass dishes to show off the luscious layers or slice it into neat squares and top each piece with extra caramel drizzle. You can also make it into mini poke cakes in cupcake tins for adorable single servings at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Sweet Bliss With Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days, making it a convenient treat to enjoy anytime.
Freezing
If you want to save this cake for later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze it for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer a warm slice, briefly microwave individual servings for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the whipped topping intact and creamy.
FAQs
Can I use a homemade cake instead of a box mix?
Absolutely! A homemade butter pecan cake works wonderfully and allows you to customize flavors, but the box mix is an easy shortcut that doesn’t compromise taste.
What can I substitute for whipped topping?
You can use homemade whipped cream made from heavy cream and a bit of sugar for a fresher, more natural topping if you prefer avoiding store-bought options.
Are there any nut-free variations?
You could omit the pecans and replace them with toasted coconut or crushed cookies for crunch, but the classic pecan taste is what truly defines this cake.
How long does it take for the praline sauce to thicken?
After bringing the sauce to a gentle boil, 2 to 3 minutes of stirring is usually enough for it to thicken slightly, making it perfect for pouring over the cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free butter pecan cake mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can enjoy this delightful dessert without worry.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to create this irresistibly moist, nutty, and sweet dessert, there’s simply no reason to wait. The Sweet Bliss With Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe is one of those special treats that transforms ordinary moments into celebrations. So gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and get ready to savor every rich, buttery bite of this southern-inspired delight!
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Sweet Bliss With Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in this delectable Sweet Bliss With Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, a luscious dessert featuring moist butter pecan cake soaked with rich praline sauce, topped with fluffy whipped topping, caramel drizzle, and crunchy pecans. Perfect for celebrations or a comforting sweet treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box butter pecan cake mix
- Ingredients called for on the box including eggs, oil, and water
For the Praline Sauce
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Topping
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Follow the directions on the butter pecan cake mix box to prepare the batter, incorporating the required eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Bake the Cake: Bake the cake as directed on the package until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Make Holes in Cake: While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the entire cake surface, allowing the sauce to seep in.
- Prepare Praline Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes while stirring constantly until it thickens slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Pour Sauce Over Cake: Slowly pour the warm praline sauce over the cake, making sure it fills all the holes for maximum flavor infusion.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely to set the sauce and cake together.
- Add Topping: Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
- Garnish: Drizzle the caramel sauce over the whipped topping and sprinkle with the remaining chopped pecans for added texture and flavor.
- Serve: Slice the cake and serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra richness and flavor, refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving.
- You can substitute homemade whipped cream for the store-bought whipped topping if preferred.
- Ensure the cake is warm when poking holes so the sauce can penetrate deeper.
- This dessert can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated for convenience.
