Butter Pecan Poke Cake

This butter pecan poke cake is a delicious cake and easy dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

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Who can resist the tempting aroma of a moist, nutty cake brimming with rich flavors and creamy goodness? This dessert is sure to be the hit at any gathering!

The best part? It’s simple to make and can be whipped up in no time with just a few ingredients.

If you love Pecan recipes, you should try this Creamy Pecan Pie recipe or this Pecan Pie Brownies.

Ingredients

This is an overview of the ingredients that you need to make this recipe. You can find the full list of ingredients in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

butter pecan cake mix, water, oil, and eggs, sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and toasted pecans, caramel Sauce

Butter Pecan Cake Mix – The foundation of our dessert starts with a box of butter pecan cake mix.
Water – You’ll need water to combine with your cake mix. It’s crucial for achieving a light and fluffy texture.
Vegetable Oil – Adding vegetable oil helps in keeping the cake moist and tender.
Eggs – Large eggs act as a binding agent, ensuring the mixture holds together well.
Sweetened Condensed Milk -This is where the magic happens! Sweetened condensed milk is poured over the cake right after it’s baked, seeping into the little holes to create a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Melt Butter – Melted butter adds another layer of richness and enhances the overall buttery flavor of the pecan cake.
Whipped Topping – A generous layer of whipped topping is spread over the cake once it’s cooled, adding a light, creamy contrast to the dense cake layers below.
Caramel Sauce – Drizzle caramel sauce over the top for a sweet finishing touch. It adds an extra depth of flavor and a beautiful glossy appearance that will make your cake look as good as it tastes.
Pecans – Finally, sprinkle toasted pecans over the top.

Instructions

This is an overview of the steps needed to make this recipe. The full instructions are available in the recipe card.

butter pecan cake mix, water, oil, and eggs mixed in a bowl

Combine the butter pecan cake mix, water, oil, and eggs in a large mixing bowl. Pour batter into the prepared baking pan.

Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

While the cake is baking, toast the pecans in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are fragrant.

sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and toasted pecans mixed

Then in a separate bowl combine the sweetened condensed milk, melted butter, and toasted pecans in a medium bowl. Remove it from the oven and let it cool.

Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake and pour the butter pecan filling over the cake.

Once the cake is completely cool, spread the whipped topping evenly.

Drizzle with caramel sauce and toasted pecans.

Storage

Storage – Store your Butter Pecan Poke Cake in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. It can last up to four days in the refrigerator, allowing you to savor it throughout the week.

Freezing – For longer storage, consider freezing your cake. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be stored for up to three months with minimal loss of flavor and texture.

Reheating – To enjoy a warm slice, simply reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will revive the cake’s flavor and enhance the gooey texture of the filling.

Wendy’s Tips

Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality ingredients for the best taste. Freshly toasted pecans and premium caramel sauce will elevate your cake.
Poking Technique: Ensure the holes you make are deep enough so the filling can thoroughly saturate the cake. This ensures each bite is infused with flavor.
Patience is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the whipped topping. This prevents melting and ensures a pristine finish.

What To Serve With Butter Pecan Poke Cake

Vanilla Ice Cream for a classic combination that complements the cake’s richness.

Fresh Berries add a refreshing, tangy contrast to the sweet, nutty flavors.

Espresso offers a bold bitterness that balances the cake’s sweetness.

FAQs

What makes a poke cake different from other cakes?

A poke cake is unique because its surface is punctured with holes after baking, allowing flavorful fillings to permeate the entire cake. This results in a moist texture and a more intense flavor profile.

Can I use homemade cake instead of a box mix?

Absolutely! If you have a favorite butter pecan cake recipe, feel free to use it. Just be sure to adjust the baking time as needed.