Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
Dive into indulgence with this Decadent Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, a moist, buttery cake infused with toasted pecans and topped with a luscious praline glaze. Perfect for family gatherings and celebrations, this cake combines rich flavors and delightful textures in every bite, making it a nostalgic treat for any occasion.
- Author: Marco
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3 large eggs (room temperature)
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Add-ins and Toppings
- 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (sifted)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until evenly combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a separate bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter until creamy and fluffy. Gradually add the granulated sugar while continuing to mix for about 3 minutes to achieve a light texture.
- Add Eggs and Liquids: Incorporate eggs one at a time into the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the whole milk and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined to avoid overmixing. Fold in the toasted chopped pecans carefully to maintain airiness.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden brown.
- Poke Holes: Allow the cake to cool slightly. Using a fork or skewer, poke holes evenly all over the surface to prepare for the praline sauce infusion.
- Make Praline Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream and sifted powdered sugar. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, heated through but not boiling, and glossy in appearance.
- Assemble: Drizzle the warm praline sauce generously over the poked cake, allowing it to soak in. Finally, sprinkle additional toasted pecans on top for a crunchy finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is slightly cooled before poking holes and adding praline sauce to prevent melting and sogginess.
- Use fresh and lightly toasted pecans for the best flavor and texture.
- For added depth, try substituting walnuts or hazelnuts if pecans are unavailable.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.
- A light sprinkle of sea salt on top can enhance the praline sweetness beautifully.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (80g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: butter pecan, decadent dessert, dessert recipe, moist cake, pecan topping, poke cake, praline cake, sweet treats