Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake

3. Prepare the Butter Pecan Praline Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1 cup brown sugar, ½ cup butter, ½ cup evaporated milk, and ½ teaspoon salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly, and let it boil for 1–2 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 cup chopped toasted pecans.
4. Immediately pour the warm sauce over the poked cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Use a spatula to gently spread it over the surface.

4. Chill the Cake

1. Cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2–3 hours, or overnight if possible. Chilling allows the sauce to fully soak in and the flavors to meld beautifully.

5. Make the Whipped Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, whip 2 cups heavy cream with ¼ cup powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
2. Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.

6. Garnish

• Sprinkle additional toasted pecans or praline pieces on top for a crunchy, eye-catching finish.
• Optional: Drizzle a little extra warm praline sauce over the whipped cream for an even more indulgent touch.

Serving Tips

• Serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
• This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days, and the flavors only get better with time.

Why This Cake Works

The poke cake technique is genius because it allows a rich, buttery praline sauce to penetrate deep into the cake, keeping it moist and flavorful. Coupled with toasted pecans, caramel notes, and fluffy whipped cream, every bite is a perfect blend of textures: soft cake, gooey sauce, and crunchy nuts.

This Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is both comforting and indulgent—a southern-inspired dessert that will impress your family and friends without requiring advanced baking skills. It’s sweet, nutty, buttery, and undeniably irresistible.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut version of this cake that uses just one pan and minimal steps but tastes just as decadent. It’s perfect for last-minute dessert cravings. Do you want me to do that?