If you’re craving a dessert that’s irresistibly rich, moist, and simply bursting with buttery goodness, this Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. It takes a humble yellow cake and elevates it with a dreamy cream cheese glaze that seeps into every poke, locking in moisture and flavor. Topped with toasted pecans for that perfect crunch, this cake is pure southern comfort that’s both easy to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe promises to be your new go-to crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple, honest ingredients is all it takes to create an unforgettable Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe. Each element plays its part— the yellow cake mix gives the perfect fluffy base, the buttermilk adds tenderness and a subtle tang, while the cream cheese and butter come together to make a luscious glaze that makes every bite memorable. Don’t forget the pecans; their toasty crunch adds just the right finishing touch.
- 15.25 ounces box Yellow Cake Mix: Provides a light, tender foundation for the cake’s rich layers.
- 1 cup Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess that makes the cake extra soft.
- 4 oz Cream Cheese (softened): Blend smoothly into the batter for richness and creaminess.
- 2 Eggs: Help bind the ingredients and contribute to the cake’s lovely texture.
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened): Combined with butter to create a velvety glaze that melts into the cake.
- ½ cup Butter (softened): Adds a deep, buttery flavor essential for the glaze’s indulgence.
- 1 tsp Vanilla: Infuses the glaze with fragrant warmth and sweetness.
- 1 ½ cup Powdered Sugar: Sweetens the glaze while keeping it smooth and creamy.
- ¼ cup Milk: Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency—neither too thick nor runny.
- 1 cup Pecans (chopped and toasted): Adds a satisfying crunch and nutty contrast to the creamy glaze.
How to Make Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepping Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. This ensures that when your batter is ready, your oven is at the perfect temperature for even baking. Then, grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and coat the bottom with non-stick spray to make sure your cake slides out effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Mixing the Cake Batter
In a large bowl, beat together the yellow cake mix, buttermilk, 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, and the eggs until the batter is smooth and well combined. This unique addition of cream cheese right in the batter gives the cake an extra moist crumb you’ll adore. Be excited—this is where your Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe starts coming alive!
Step 3: Baking the Cake
Pour your luscious batter evenly into the prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake it for about 28 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This step is key to ensuring your cake has baked through without drying out.
Step 4: Cooling Time
Once baked, set the cake aside to cool completely. Cooling is crucial because it lets the cake firm up just enough to poke holes without crumbling, and makes sure the glaze absorbs perfectly.
Step 5: Preparing the Glaze
While the cake cools, it’s time to get your glaze ready. In a microwave-safe bowl, gently melt together the remaining 8 ounces of cream cheese and butter. Whisk them until silky smooth, then stir in the vanilla and milk. Finally, add powdered sugar gradually, whisking until the glaze is perfectly creamy and pourable.
Step 6: Poking the Cake and Applying Glaze
Using the bottom of a wooden spoon or a large straw, poke holes all over the cake’s surface. These little pockets let the glaze seep deep into the cake, soaking it with buttery, sweet goodness. Immediately pour the glaze over the entire cake, spreading as needed so every nook is covered in that luscious topping.
Step 7: Adding the Nutty Finish and Chilling
Right after glazing, sprinkle the toast chopped pecans evenly over the top. This adds that signature texture contrast we all crave. Pop the cake into the fridge for about 1 hour and 30 minutes to let everything set and meld beautifully before serving.
Step 8: Enjoy the Magic
After chilling, your Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe is ready to wow. Slice it up and prepare to delight your taste buds with every forkful!
How to Serve Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
To make your Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe look as fantastic as it tastes, consider topping it with extra toasted pecans or a light dusting of powdered sugar. A drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt can also elevate its flavors even further, adding a bit of flair and balance.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with simple sides like fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool creaminess of ice cream contrasts the cake’s buttery richness, while berries bring a bright, fresh note that cuts through the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For gatherings, slice the cake into neat rectangles and serve on pretty dessert plates with a sprig of mint or edible flowers for an elegant touch. You can also create individual mini poke cakes by layering the batter and glaze in mason jars for a portable treat everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, so leftovers are just as delightful as fresh slices!
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cake without the pecan topping. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before adding fresh toasted pecans and serving.
Reheating
The Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer a warm slice, gently microwave it for 15 to 20 seconds. Just be careful not to heat too long or the glaze will melt away.
FAQs
Can I make the cake from scratch instead of using a box mix?
Absolutely! While the box mix makes this recipe quick and foolproof, using your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe will work beautifully too. Just make sure the batter isn’t too dense so the glaze can soak in nicely.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes. This homemade buttermilk substitute will give your cake the same tender texture and tang.
Can I use nuts other than pecans?
Yes! While pecans add that classic southern touch, chopped walnuts or almonds would also bring a delicious crunch. Toast them lightly to enhance their flavor.
Is this cake suitable for making in advance for a party?
Definitely. The Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe actually tastes better after resting in the fridge for a while because the glaze soaks into the cake fully. Just make sure to store it covered to keep it fresh.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can easily double this recipe and bake it in a larger pan or two 9×13 pans. Just keep an eye on the baking time—it might need a few extra minutes depending on the thickness.
Final Thoughts
This Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe is truly one of those desserts that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s a brilliant combination of comfort and indulgence, simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and see just how addictive this cake becomes in your household. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Kentucky Butter Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 pieces
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
This Kentucky Butter Poke Cake is a rich and decadent dessert featuring a moist yellow cake infused with a creamy cream cheese batter. After baking, the cake is poked with holes and drenched in a luscious glaze made from butter, cream cheese, powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla, topped with toasted pecans for a delightful crunch. Chilling the cake allows the glaze to soak in perfectly, making each bite irresistibly buttery and sweet.
Ingredients
Cake Batter
- 1 (15.25 ounces) box Yellow Cake Mix
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 eggs
Glaze
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup (about 1 stick) butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
Topping
- 1 cup chopped and toasted pecans
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to preheat while you prepare the cake batter.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, beat together the yellow cake mix, buttermilk, 4 ounces of softened cream cheese, and 2 eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Pour Batter: Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into the sprayed baking dish, spreading it out smoothly.
- Bake the Cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Remove the cake from the oven and set aside to cool completely before adding the glaze.
- Prepare the Glaze: In a medium microwavable bowl, melt together the butter and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Whisk Glaze Ingredients: Whisk the melted mixture until creamy, then add vanilla extract and milk, stirring to combine.
- Add Powdered Sugar: Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar until the glaze is smooth and well blended.
- Make Holes in Cake: Using the bottom of a wooden spoon or a large straw, poke holes all over the cooled cake to allow the glaze to seep in.
- Glaze the Cake: Pour the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the cake, spreading it out to cover the surface and fill the holes.
- Add Pecans: Immediately sprinkle the toasted chopped pecans over the glazed cake so they adhere well.
- Refrigerate: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour and 30 minutes to let the glaze set and flavors meld.
- Serve: Slice into 12 pieces and enjoy this rich, buttery Southern classic!
Notes
- Ensure the cream cheese and butter are softened at room temperature for a smooth glaze.
- To toast pecans, place them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Use a large straw or wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the cake, allowing the glaze to soak throughout for maximum flavor.
- For an extra indulgent touch, garnish with whipped cream or drizzle additional glaze before serving.
- Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
