Description

Kentucky Butter Poke Cake is a rich yet fluffy dessert that combines a soft yellow cake base with a creamy butter-cream cheese glaze and crunchy toasted pecans. Made with simple pantry ingredients and a boxed cake mix, this dessert is easy to prepare but tastes bakery-quality. The cake is poked so the warm glaze soaks into every bite, making it moist, flavorful, and absolutely irresistible for gatherings, holidays, or weeknight treats.

Ingredients

Cake

15.25 oz yellow cake mix
1 cup buttermilk
4 oz cream cheese, softened
2 eggs

Topping

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup butter, softened
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1/4 cup milk
1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Cake Preparation and Baking

Preheat oven to 350°F
Grease a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray
In a large mixing bowl, beat cake mix, buttermilk, 4 oz cream cheese, and eggs until smooth and fully combined
Pour batter into prepared baking dish and spread evenly
Bake for 28 to 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
Allow cake to cool slightly before adding topping

Pecan Preparation

Toast chopped pecans in a dry skillet over medium-high heat
Stir frequently for 4 to 5 minutes until fragrant and lightly browned
Remove from heat and set aside to cool

Glaze Preparation

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt butter and 8 oz cream cheese together
Whisk until smooth and creamy
Add vanilla extract and milk, stirring until well blended
Gradually whisk in powdered sugar until smooth and lump-free

Assembling the Cake

Use the handle of a wooden spoon or large straw to poke holes evenly across the cake
Pour glaze over the cake, ensuring it fills all holes and spreads evenly
Sprinkle toasted pecans over the top immediately
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour 30 minutes before serving

Notes

Serve chilled for best texture and flavor
Slice into squares for easy serving
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days
Keep cake tightly covered to prevent drying out
This cake can be served cold or slightly brought to room temperature before serving