Irresistible Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake Recipe
Introduction
This Irresistible Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake is a delightful fall dessert that’s both easy to make and full of rich flavors. Moist pumpkin spice cake soaked with a boozy caramel glaze, topped with whipped cream and crunchy pecans, makes it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box (15 oz) pumpkin spice cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 2 tbsp bourbon
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin spice cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until the batter is smooth. Pour it evenly into the prepared pan.
- Step 3: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Step 4: Combine the caramel sauce and bourbon in a small bowl. Using a skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake, then pour the caramel-bourbon glaze over the top, letting it soak in.
- Step 5: Allow the cake to cool completely. Before serving, spread whipped cream over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans for a crunchy contrast.
Tips & Variations
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with an equal amount of apple cider or additional caramel sauce.
- Use homemade caramel sauce for a richer, more natural flavor.
- Toast the pecans lightly to enhance their nuttiness before sprinkling on the whipped cream.
Storage
Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. When ready to serve again, let it come to room temperature or warm slightly for the best texture. The whipped cream topping is best added fresh before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, use a gluten-free pumpkin cake mix to make the recipe suitable for gluten-free diets. Ensure your caramel sauce and other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy with the glaze?
Allow the cake to cool slightly before poking holes and adding the glaze, so it absorbs without becoming overly wet. Pour the glaze gradually, letting it seep in evenly.
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Irresistible Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Irresistible Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake is a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the warm spices of pumpkin cake with a rich caramel bourbon glaze. Finished with whipped cream and crunchy pecans, it’s an easy-to-make treat perfect for fall gatherings or any celebration.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box (15 oz) pumpkin spice cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
For the Glaze and Topping
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 2 tbsp bourbon
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the pumpkin spice cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended without lumps.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the prepared batter evenly into the greased baking pan. Place in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Prepare the Bourbon Caramel Glaze: While the cake is still warm, whisk together the caramel sauce and bourbon in a small bowl until smooth. Use a skewer or fork to poke holes all over the top of the warm cake, then pour the caramel bourbon glaze evenly over the poked holes, allowing it to soak in.
- Cool and Decorate: Let the cake cool completely in the pan. Once cooled, spread the whipped cream evenly over the top, then sprinkle with chopped pecans for a crunchy finish. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon or substitute with vanilla extract.
- You can use store-bought caramel sauce or make your own for a richer flavor.
- Ensure the cake is warm, not hot, when pouring the glaze to allow better absorption.
- Chilling the cake after adding whipped cream topping can enhance texture before serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin cake, caramel bourbon, poke cake, fall dessert, pumpkin spice, whipped cream topping, pecans
