Step-by-step instructions
Cooking method:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt until well mixed.
- Add the softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat on medium speed until everything is well combined and smooth.
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans for that perfect crunch.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to smooth the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- After baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 15 minutes.
- Carefully poke several holes in the cake using the end of a wooden spoon. Be generous—this is where all that delicious caramel will soak in!
- Pour the caramel sauce over the warm cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, the possibilities are endless! You can dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted pecans for added flair. For a festive touch, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk for a comforting snack any time of day.
How to store
To keep your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake—just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will stay good in the freezer for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake turns out perfectly:
- Ensure your butter is softened properly for easy mixing. Leave it at room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting.
- For an extra touch of flavor, toast your pecans lightly before folding them into the batter.
- Allow the cake to cool before pouring the caramel sauce; this prevents the sauce from simply slipping off the surface.
- If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a nice warmth.
Creative twists
Looking to mix things up? Here are some fun variations you could try:
- Chocolate Lovers: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to transform your cake into a chocolate version. Pair it with chocolate syrup instead of caramel!
- Tropical Vibes: Swap out pecans for toasted coconut and drizzle with coconut caramel sauce for a tropical twist.
- Holiday Cheer: Incorporate some pumpkin spice or pumpkin puree into the batter for a fall-inspired delight.
FAQ
What’s the prep time for this recipe?
Preparation takes about 15-20 minutes, with baking time varying between 30-35 minutes.
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes! You can replace each egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
Is this cake suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Just be sure to wrap it well and keep it in an airtight container. It should last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Now that you have this delightful Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake recipe at your fingertips, get ready to impress friends and family with a dessert that feels like a warm hug! Happy baking!
