Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delicious dessert that can be served on any occasion, including brunch. This cake is a perfect combination of buttery cake, sweet praline, and crunchy pecans. It is a simple recipe that is easy to make, and it is sure to impress all your guests.
The Origin of Butter Pecan Praline can be traced back to the southern region of the United States, where pecans are a staple ingredient. Praline is a candy made from sugar, cream, and pecans, and it is often used as a topping for cakes and ice creams. When combined with buttery cake and moistened with cream, it creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
To make this delicious Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, you will need a few essential ingredients such as cake mix, coconut frosting, eggs, oil, milk, and pecans. You will also need some basic kitchen tools such as a mixing bowl, electric mixer, baking dish, and measuring cups. With these ingredients and tools, you can create a mouthwatering cake that will be the centerpiece of any brunch table.
Key Takeaways
- Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delicious dessert that is perfect for brunch.
- The cake has its origin in the southern region of the United States and is a combination of buttery cake, sweet praline, and crunchy pecans.
- To make this cake, you will need essential ingredients such as cake mix, coconut frosting, eggs, oil, milk, and pecans, and basic kitchen tools such as a mixing bowl, electric mixer, baking dish, and measuring cups.
The Origin of Butter Pecan Praline
Butter Pecan Praline is a classic Southern flavor that has been enjoyed for generations. The combination of buttery pecans and sweet praline is a match made in heaven. The origin of this flavor can be traced back to the 19th century, when pecans were first cultivated in the Southern United States.
Pecans quickly became a staple in Southern cuisine, and were often used in desserts. The addition of praline, a candy made from sugar and pecans, took the flavor to the next level. The combination of butter, pecans, and praline was a natural fit, and Butter Pecan Praline was born.
Today, Butter Pecan Praline is a popular flavor in desserts, especially in the South. It is commonly used in cakes, pies, and ice cream. The rich, nutty flavor of pecans combined with the sweet, caramel-like flavor of praline creates a flavor that is both comforting and indulgent.
In recent years, Butter Pecan Praline has gained popularity outside of the South, and can now be found in many parts of the country. It is a flavor that is loved by many, and will continue to be a classic for years to come.
Essential Ingredients
To make a delicious Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, there are a few essential ingredients that are required. These ingredients are easily available at any local grocery store.
Cake Mix
The first and most important ingredient is the cake mix. For this recipe, a butter pecan cake mix is used. It is readily available in most stores and is the perfect base for this dessert.
Coconut Pecan Frosting
The second essential ingredient is the coconut pecan frosting. This frosting adds a rich and creamy texture to the cake, making it moist and delicious.
Eggs, Oil, and Milk
The cake mix and frosting are then combined with eggs, oil, and milk to create the perfect batter. These ingredients add richness and moisture to the cake.
Pecans
Finally, pecans are added to the batter, giving the cake a nutty flavor and a crunchy texture.
With these essential ingredients, anyone can make a mouth-watering Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake that is perfect for any brunch.
Required Kitchen Tools
To make a delicious butter pecan praline poke cake, there are several kitchen tools that are required. These tools make the process of preparing the cake easier and more efficient. Here are the essential kitchen tools that are needed:
1. Mixing Bowls
Mixing bowls are essential for combining the cake mix, frosting, eggs, oil, and milk. It is recommended to have at least two mixing bowls, one for the dry ingredients and one for the wet ingredients.
2. Electric Mixer
An electric mixer is required to blend the cake batter until it is well blended. This ensures that the cake is light and fluffy. A hand mixer or stand mixer can be used for this purpose.
3. 9×13-inch Baking Dish
A 9×13-inch baking dish is required to bake the cake. It is recommended to use a glass or metal baking dish for even baking.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Measuring cups and spoons are necessary to measure the ingredients accurately. It is important to use the right amount of ingredients to ensure that the cake turns out perfectly.
5. Toothpick
A toothpick is used to check if the cake is done. Insert the toothpick into the center of the cake, if it comes out clean, the cake is done.
By having these essential kitchen tools, one can easily make a delicious butter pecan praline poke cake.
Preparation Overview
Making a Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake for brunch is an excellent way to impress your guests. This cake is easy to make and requires minimal preparation time. Here is an overview of the preparation process:
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk. Mix until well blended.
- Fold in chopped pecans to add a nutty crunch to the cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for approximately 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- While the cake is baking, prepare the praline topping.
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes in the cake.
- Pour the praline topping over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
- Let the cake cool completely before serving.
By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake that is sure to impress your guests. The combination of moist cake, chopped pecans, and sweet praline topping makes for a perfect brunch treat.
Baking the Cake Base
Mixing the Batter
To make the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, start by preheating the oven to 350°F and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the butter pecan cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and milk. Beat the batter with an electric mixer until well blended.
Stir in the chopped pecans until evenly distributed throughout the batter. The pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the cake.
Oven Settings and Timing
Once the batter is mixed, pour it into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The exact baking time may vary depending on the oven, so it’s important to keep an eye on the cake and check it periodically.
When the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before poking holes all over the surface with a fork or skewer. This will allow the praline sauce to seep into the cake and infuse it with flavor.
Overall, baking the cake base for the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a straightforward process that results in a delicious and moist dessert.
Creating the Pecan Praline Mixture
Toasting the Pecans
Toasting the pecans is an essential step to bring out their nutty flavor and add a crunchy texture to the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the pecans in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly browned. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Making the Praline Sauce
The praline sauce is what makes this Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake truly irresistible. To make the sauce, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and turns a rich caramel color. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before pouring it over the cake.
By toasting the pecans and making the praline sauce from scratch, you can elevate the flavor and texture of the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake. These simple yet crucial steps are what make this cake stand out from the rest.
Assembling the Poke Cake
Poking the Cake
Once the cake has cooled down, it’s time to poke it. Using the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the cake. Make sure the holes are big enough to allow the praline mixture to seep in.
Pouring the Praline
Now it’s time to pour the praline mixture over the cake. Start by evenly pouring the mixture over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Use a spatula to spread the mixture over the cake, making sure it covers the entire surface.
Once the praline mixture has been poured over the cake, it’s time to let it cool down. Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the praline mixture to set.
Assembling a butter pecan praline poke cake is a simple process that anyone can do. By following the steps outlined above, you can create a delicious and decadent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
Final Touches and Toppings
Whipped Cream Layer
To add an extra layer of creaminess to the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, top it off with a generous layer of whipped cream. Whipped cream can be made easily by using a mixer to beat heavy cream until it thickens and forms stiff peaks. Add a tablespoon of sugar and a splash of vanilla extract for added sweetness and flavor. Spread the whipped cream over the cake and smooth it out with a spatula.
Garnishing with Pecans
For a final touch of decadence and texture, garnish the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake with chopped pecans. Toast the pecans in a skillet over medium heat until they become fragrant and slightly browned. Sprinkle the pecans over the cake and press them gently into the whipped cream layer. The pecans add a satisfying crunch and nuttiness to the cake that complements the rich flavors of the butter pecan and praline.
To make the presentation even more beautiful, sprinkle some powdered sugar over the top of the cake using a fine mesh strainer. This adds a touch of elegance and makes the cake look more visually appealing.
By following these simple steps, you can elevate the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake from a simple dessert to a show-stopping centerpiece for your brunch table.
Serving Suggestions
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a versatile dessert that can be served in many ways. Here are a few serving suggestions to make your brunch even more delicious:
1. Serve with Whipped Cream
A dollop of whipped cream on top of a slice of Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a classic way to serve this dessert. The light and fluffy texture of the whipped cream complements the richness of the cake perfectly.
2. Add Fresh Berries
For a pop of color and freshness, add some fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries to the top of the cake. The tartness of the berries will balance out the sweetness of the cake and add a delicious fruity flavor.
3. Pair with Coffee
Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a rich dessert, and it pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee. The bitterness of the coffee will help to balance out the sweetness of the cake, making for a perfect brunch pairing.
4. Serve with Ice Cream
For an indulgent dessert, serve Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cold and creamy ice cream will complement the warm and rich cake, making for a delicious contrast of textures and temperatures.
Overall, Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delicious and versatile dessert that can be served in many ways. Whether you choose to serve it with whipped cream, fresh berries, coffee, or ice cream, this cake is sure to be a hit at your next brunch.
Storage and Freshness
After baking the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake, it is important to properly store it to maintain its freshness. The cake can be covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and stored at room temperature for up to three days.
For longer storage, the cake can be refrigerated for up to one week. Before refrigerating, cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When ready to serve, allow the cake to come to room temperature before removing the cover. This will help prevent condensation from forming on the cake and keep it from becoming soggy.
If you need to freeze the cake, it is best to do so before adding the frosting. Wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to serve, allow the cake to thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.
It is important to note that the longer the cake is stored, the more its texture and flavor may change. To ensure the best taste and texture, it is recommended to consume the cake within a few days of baking.
Nutritional Information
The Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delicious dessert that is perfect for brunch. However, it is important to be aware of the nutritional information before indulging in this treat.
One serving of this cake (based on the recipes found in the search results) contains approximately 340-360 calories, 20-22 grams of fat, 35-40 grams of carbohydrates, and 3-4 grams of protein. The exact nutritional information may vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used.
The cake contains significant amounts of sugar and saturated fat, which should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. It is also important to note that this dessert may not be suitable for individuals with certain dietary restrictions or health conditions.
Overall, the Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake is a delicious and indulgent dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key ingredients for a traditional Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
A traditional Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake typically includes a butter pecan cake mix, coconut pecan frosting, eggs, oil, milk, and chopped pecans. Some recipes may also call for additional ingredients such as sour cream or buttermilk.
How do you prevent a poke cake from becoming soggy?
To prevent a poke cake from becoming soggy, it is important to use a fork to poke holes in the cake while it is still warm. This allows the cake to absorb the liquid filling without becoming too moist. It is also important to allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting or topping.
Can you recommend a southern-style recipe for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake?
One highly recommended southern-style recipe for Butter Pecan Praline Poke Cake can be found on the 12 Tomatoes website. This recipe includes a moist and fluffy cake with a rich and creamy filling made from sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce.
What are some tips for making a homemade Pecan Praline topping?
When making a homemade Pecan Praline topping, it is important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Toasting the pecans before adding them to the topping can also enhance their flavor and texture. Additionally, it is important to stir the mixture constantly while it is cooking to prevent burning.
Which brand of cake mix is best suited for a Butter Pecan Poke Cake?
While there are many brands of cake mix available, some of the most popular for Butter Pecan Poke Cake include Duncan Hines, Betty Crocker, and Pillsbury. It is recommended to choose a cake mix that includes coconut pecan frosting to enhance the flavor of the cake.
What is the origin of the name ‘poke cake’?
The origin of the name ‘poke cake’ is not entirely clear. Some believe that it refers to the process of poking holes in the cake to allow the filling to seep into the cake. Others believe that it may have originated from the southern tradition of using a wooden spoon handle to poke holes in the cake.