Butter Pecan Dulce de Leche Poke Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Butter Pecan Dulce de Leche Poke Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, combining the rich flavors of butter pecan cake with creamy dulce de leche and a light whipped topping. Perfect for gatherings or a special treat at home, it’s easy to make and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) butter pecan cake mix (I used Betty Crocker)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 jar (15 ounces) dulce de leche
- 32 ounces cool whip or whipped cream
- ½ cup chopped pecans
- ½ cup toffee bits
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350℉ and grease a 9″x13″ baking pan with cooking spray.
- Step 2: Prepare the butter pecan cake batter according to the package instructions using the eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Step 3: Bake the cake until golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean, about 30 minutes. Allow it to cool slightly.
- Step 4: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake.
- Step 5: Microwave the dulce de leche for about 30 seconds until it is pourable. Stir well and then pour it evenly over the cake, allowing it to fill the holes.
- Step 6: Spread the cool whip or whipped cream evenly over the top of the cake.
- Step 7: Sprinkle the chopped pecans and toffee bits as a garnish.
- Step 8: Slice into squares and serve. Enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For extra moisture, warm the dulce de leche just until pourable to ensure it seeps deep into the cake holes.
- Substitute the cool whip with freshly whipped cream for a more natural flavor.
- Try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the whipped topping for a warm, spiced touch.
- Chopped walnuts or almonds can be used instead of pecans for a different nutty flavor.
Storage
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because of the whipped topping, this cake is best enjoyed chilled and should be served cold. To reheat slices, warm briefly in the microwave, but note it may soften the topping.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade dulce de leche for this recipe?
Yes, homemade dulce de leche works perfectly. Just make sure it is warmed and pourable before adding it to the cake.
What if I don’t have toffee bits?
If you don’t have toffee bits, you can omit them or substitute with crushed caramel candies or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
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Butter Pecan Dulce de Leche Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Butter Pecan Dulce de Leche Poke Cake combines the rich, nutty flavors of butter pecan cake with the creamy sweetness of dulce de leche. Poke holes in the freshly baked cake allow the luscious caramel sauce to seep in, creating moist, decadent bites. Topped with fluffy whipped cream and crunchy pecans and toffee bits, this dessert is the perfect indulgence for any special occasion or casual treat.
Ingredients
Cake
- 15.25 ounce butter pecan cake mix (1 box, Betty Crocker recommended)
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
Filling and Topping
- 15 ounce dulce de leche (1 jar)
- 32 fluid ounce Cool Whip or whipped cream
- ½ cup pecans, chopped
- ½ cup toffee bits
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350℉ (175℃). Grease a 9″ x 13″ baking pan thoroughly with cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix and Bake the Cake: Prepare the butter pecan cake batter according to the package instructions by combining the cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Pour the batter evenly into the greased pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Poke Holes and Add Dulce de Leche: Once the cake is baked, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all across the surface of the warm cake. Microwave the jar of dulce de leche for approximately 30 seconds to make it easier to pour, then stir well. Drizzle the dulce de leche evenly over the cake, allowing it to fill the holes and soak in.
- Top with Whipped Cream and Garnishes: Spread Cool Whip or whipped cream evenly over the entire surface of the cake. Sprinkle the chopped pecans and toffee bits on top to add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
- Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into squares, serve, and enjoy the creamy, buttery, and nutty flavors of this irresistible poke cake.
Notes
- For best results, allow the cake to cool slightly before poking holes and adding dulce de leche to prevent it from becoming too soggy.
- If dulce de leche is not available, you can substitute with caramel sauce, though texture and flavor will vary.
- Chilling the cake after assembly can help the flavors meld together and make slicing easier.
- To make this dessert gluten-free, use a gluten-free butter pecan cake mix.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: butter pecan cake,poke cake,dulce de leche cake,dessert,pecan cake,caramel poke cake,toffee bits cake
