Irresistible Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake in 3 Simple Steps Recipe
Introduction
This Irresistible Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake combines the warm flavors of pumpkin spice with a luscious caramel bourbon glaze. It’s an easy dessert that’s perfect for autumn gatherings or whenever you crave a comforting treat.
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 prepare it for the batter.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin spice cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until you have a smooth batter. Pour this mixture evenly into the prepared pan.
- Step 3: Bake the cake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Step 4: While the cake is still warm, use a skewer to poke holes all over the surface. In a small bowl, whisk together the caramel sauce and bourbon, then pour this glaze evenly over the cake so it seeps into the holes.
- Step 5: Let the cake cool completely before topping it with whipped cream and sprinkling chopped pecans over the top. Serve and enjoy!
Tips & Variations
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the bourbon with an equal amount of additional caramel sauce or apple cider.
- Use store-bought whipped cream to save time, or whip your own for a fresher taste and texture.
- Try toasting the pecans before sprinkling them on top to enhance their flavor and crunch.
Storage
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To serve, let the cake come to room temperature or warm slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The whipped cream topping is best added fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different cake mix for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pumpkin spice cake mix with plain spice or yellow cake mix and add pumpkin pie spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves) for similar flavor.
How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
Make sure not to overbake the cake and pour the caramel bourbon glaze while the cake is warm to keep it moist and flavorful.
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Irresistible Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake in 3 Simple Steps Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Irresistible Pumpkin Caramel Bourbon Poke Cake is a delightful autumn dessert combining moist pumpkin spice cake with a luscious bourbon-infused caramel glaze. Topped with whipped cream and crunchy pecans, it’s an easy-to-make treat perfect for seasonal celebrations or cozy gatherings.
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
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 2 tbsp bourbon
For the Topping
- 1 cup whipped cream
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan thoroughly to ensure the cake does not stick during baking.
- Make the Cake Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin spice cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix well until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan.
- Bake the Cake: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
- Prepare Bourbon Caramel Glaze: While the cake is still warm, whisk together the caramel sauce and bourbon in a separate bowl until fully combined.
- Poke and Pour: Using a skewer or fork, poke holes evenly all over the surface of the warm cake. Pour the bourbon caramel glaze over the entire cake, allowing it to soak into the holes for maximum flavor penetration.
- Cool and Top: Let the cake cool completely to room temperature. Once cooled, spread whipped cream over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans for added texture and flavor. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute bourbon with vanilla extract or omit it entirely.
- Use homemade caramel sauce for a richer flavor or store-bought for convenience.
- Chilling the cake before serving can make the flavors meld even better and enhance texture.
- Toasted pecans add extra nuttiness but can be omitted to accommodate nut allergies.
- Ensure the cake is warm, not hot, when pouring the glaze to allow better absorption.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: pumpkin poke cake, caramel bourbon cake, fall dessert, pumpkin spice dessert, easy pumpkin cake
