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Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is the kind of dessert that instantly turns an ordinary evening into something special. With its buttery vanilla cake base, rich caramel sauce that seeps into every bite, and a crunchy pecan praline topping, this cake delivers layers of sweet Southern comfort in one irresistible pan.

Each forkful is moist, gooey, and loaded with nutty flavor. The caramel settles into the holes of the cake, creating pockets of golden sweetness, while the toasted pecans add texture and depth. It’s the perfect make-ahead dessert for holidays, potlucks, Sunday dinners, or anytime you’re craving a classic American treat with a praline twist.

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What Makes Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake So Irresistible?

The magic of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake comes from the “poke” technique. After baking, you poke holes all over the cake and pour warm caramel sauce over the top. The sauce seeps into the cake, creating ultra-moist layers filled with buttery sweetness.

Then comes the praline topping — toasted pecans coated in a rich brown sugar glaze. The contrast between soft cake and crunchy pecans makes every bite exciting. It’s simple to prepare, but tastes like something straight from a Southern bakery.

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Ingredients for the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Yellow Cake Mix
Forms the soft, buttery base of the cake and keeps preparation quick and simple.

Eggs
Provide structure and richness to the cake batter.

Vegetable Oil
Adds moisture to ensure the cake stays tender.

Milk
Enhances flavor and creates a softer crumb compared to water.

Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pours into the holes to create that signature poke cake moisture and sweetness.

Caramel Sauce
Infuses the cake with deep caramel flavor and gooey texture.

Unsalted Butter
Used in the praline topping to create a rich, smooth glaze.

Brown Sugar
Adds warm molasses notes essential for authentic praline flavor.

Heavy Cream
Helps create a silky praline sauce consistency.

Vanilla Extract
Enhances the sweetness and balances the caramel notes.

Chopped Pecans
Bring crunch and the classic butter pecan flavor that defines this dessert.

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How To Make the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, oil, and milk. Mix until smooth and fully incorporated.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 28–32 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 3: Poke and Fill

While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Follow with warm caramel sauce.

Step 4: Make the Praline Topping

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla and chopped pecans.

Step 5: Add the Topping

Spread the warm praline mixture evenly over the cake. Let it cool completely so the topping sets slightly before slicing.

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Serving and Storing Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

This cake tastes incredible slightly warm, but it’s even better after chilling for a few hours. Refrigerating allows the caramel and condensed milk to fully settle into the cake.

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For best texture, let slices sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before serving.

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What to Serve With Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?

Vanilla Ice Cream

A cold scoop melts beautifully into the warm caramel layers.

Fresh Whipped Cream

Light and airy whipped cream balances the richness.

Hot Coffee

The bitterness of coffee pairs perfectly with sweet praline flavors.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

A little extra drizzle enhances the caramel notes even more.

Toasted Coconut

Sprinkle lightly for added texture and a subtle tropical touch.

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Want More Poke Cake Ideas?

If you love this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

• German Chocolate Poke Cake – Rich chocolate layers soaked with sweet coconut pecan goodness.
https://savorqueen.com/german-chocolate-poke-cake/

• Strawberry Cheesecake Dump Cake – Fruity, creamy, and incredibly simple to make.
https://savorqueen.com/strawberry-cheesecake-dump-cake/

• Pineapple Dump Cake Recipe – Sweet pineapple flavor with golden buttery topping.
https://savorqueen.com/pineapple-dump-cake-recipe/

• Chocolate Caramel Toffee Crunch Cake – Loaded with chocolate, caramel, and irresistible crunch.
https://savorqueen.com/chocolate-caramel-toffee-crunch-cake/

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this indulgent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake to your favorite Pinterest dessert board so it’s ready when the craving hits.

Did you add extra caramel? Maybe swap in toasted walnuts? I’d love to hear how you made it your own — share your tips and questions in the comments below.

For more comforting dessert ideas and daily kitchen inspiration, explore Savor Queen on Pinterest:
https://www.pinterest.com/mydelicioushomerecipes/

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