If you love the rich, nutty flavor of butter pecan and the sweetness of pralines, this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is your new go-to dessert. It’s moist, decadent, and so simple to make — a beautiful blend of buttery cake, caramel praline sauce, and whipped topping that feels like pure indulgence.
The magic happens when you poke holes into the warm cake and pour over a thick, buttery praline sauce made from brown sugar, cream, and pecans. The sauce seeps into every crevice, transforming an ordinary cake into something spectacular. Then, it’s topped with creamy whipped topping and more crunchy pecans for texture and balance.
Perfect for potlucks, Sunday dinners, or holiday gatherings — this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that looks impressive but couldn’t be easier to make.
Why You’ll Love This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
- Ultra-moist texture — caramel sauce soaks right into the cake.
- Classic Southern flavor — butter pecan and praline in one dessert.
- Simple ingredients — starts with a cake mix but tastes homemade.
- Make-ahead friendly — even better the next day!
- Perfect for holidays and gatherings — rich, creamy, and crowd-pleasing.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Poke cakes are the ultimate “lazy baker’s” secret weapon — easy to make but bursting with flavor and texture. This one stands out because it combines the creamy praline flavor of a candy shop with the soft, buttery crumb of a homemade cake.
Whether you’re baking for a family dinner or bringing dessert to a party, this cake delivers every time. It’s sweet but balanced, gooey yet fluffy, and has that irresistible Southern charm that makes people ask for the recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 1 box Butter Pecan cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional for extra crunch)
For the Praline Sauce:
- 1 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream or evaporated milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Topping:
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
- ¼ cup toasted pecans, for garnish
- Optional: caramel drizzle for serving
How to Make Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake (Step by Step)
Step 1: Bake the cake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine cake mix, eggs, water, and oil. Mix until smooth and well combined. Fold in chopped pecans if desired. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 2: Prepare the praline sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in brown sugar and cream. Bring to a gentle boil and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until smooth and thickened. Remove from heat, stir in vanilla and pecans.
Step 3: Poke the cake
Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled (about 10 minutes), use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top.
Step 4: Pour the sauce
Slowly pour the warm praline sauce over the cake, letting it seep into the holes. Use a spatula to spread evenly so the sauce coats the top and fills every crevice.
Step 5: Chill and top
Let the cake cool completely, then spread whipped topping evenly over the surface. Sprinkle toasted pecans and drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
Step 6: Serve and enjoy
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to let the flavors meld. Slice and enjoy the buttery, praline goodness in every bite!
Tips for the Best Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
- Don’t skip the poking step — that’s what gives it the gooey praline center.
- Use real butter — it makes the praline sauce rich and silky.
- Add pecans to the batter — for crunch in every bite.
- Cool the cake slightly before pouring sauce — too hot, and it may become soggy.
- Toast the pecans — it brings out a deeper, nutty flavor.
- Use full-fat cream or evaporated milk — for the creamiest sauce.
- Let it chill — an hour in the fridge enhances the texture.
- Drizzle caramel before serving — for an irresistible finish.
- Make ahead — tastes even better the next day.
- Store covered — keeps it moist and flavorful.
Variations & Substitutions
- Maple Pecan Version: Add 1 tablespoon maple syrup to the praline sauce.
- Butter Rum Twist: Stir in 1 teaspoon rum extract or a splash of dark rum.
- Chocolate Praline Cake: Add chocolate chips to the batter or drizzle with chocolate ganache.
- Coconut Praline Cake: Mix ½ cup shredded coconut into the batter.
- Salted Caramel Touch: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the top before serving.
- Banana Pecan Praline Cake: Add 1 mashed banana to the batter for a softer crumb.
- Cupcake Style: Make individual poke cupcakes using a muffin tin.
- Whipped Cream Cheese Topping: Mix cream cheese with Cool Whip for a tangy twist.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free cake mix.
- Vegan Version: Use dairy-free whipped topping and coconut cream.
What to Serve With Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake
- Vanilla or butter pecan ice cream
- Hot coffee or espresso
- A drizzle of warm caramel or praline sauce
- Fresh berries for a light contrast
- Toasted coconut flakes for added crunch
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
To Freeze:
Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
To Serve:
Enjoy chilled or bring to room temperature before serving.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use yellow cake mix instead of butter pecan?
Yes — just add ½ teaspoon butter extract and extra chopped pecans.
Can I make the praline sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely — store it in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently before pouring.
Can I use store-bought caramel instead?
Yes, but the homemade praline sauce gives it that authentic flavor.
Do I have to refrigerate the cake?
Yes, because of the whipped topping and sauce.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes — bake in two pans for a party or crowd.
Can I use evaporated milk instead of cream?
Yes — it works beautifully and keeps the sauce silky.
Can I make it nut-free?
You can omit pecans or replace them with toffee bits.
Why is it called a poke cake?
Because the holes “soak up” the sauce, creating a moist, flavor-packed dessert.
Can I serve it warm?
Yes — just skip the whipped topping and enjoy with ice cream.
What if my sauce thickens too much?
Add a splash of cream and reheat gently to loosen it.
Final Thoughts
This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is the ultimate Southern dessert — buttery, caramel-drizzled, and full of pecan crunch. The gooey praline filling transforms every bite into pure comfort, while the fluffy whipped topping adds the perfect light finish.
Whether for a special celebration or a cozy weekend treat, it’s a guaranteed hit that looks like it came straight from a bakery — but you’ll know it’s all homemade.