Christmas Poke Cake

Christmas Poke Cake is a festive and fun dessert that combines the classic flavors of vanilla cake and pudding with a holiday twist. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for any Christmas gathering, with vibrant red and green colors that add to the festive spirit. The pudding-soaked cake topped with whipped topping and sprinkles is sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients

• 1 box white cake mix
• 1 cup water
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 3 egg whites
• 1 (3.4 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups milk
• 1 (8 oz) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
• Red and green food coloring
• Sprinkles, for decorating

Directions

1. Prepare and bake the white cake mix according to the package directions for a 9×13-inch cake.
2. Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes, then use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth. Pour the pudding over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
4. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the pudding to set.
5. Once the cake has chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the top.
6. Divide the whipped topping into two portions. Dye one portion red and the other green using food coloring. Decorate the cake with the colored whipped topping and add sprinkles on top for extra flair.
7. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Flavored Pudding: Use chocolate or butterscotch pudding for a different flavor profile while still keeping the festive vibe.
• Fruit Topping: Add fresh fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or even sliced bananas for a fresh, sweet contrast to the richness of the cake.
• Frosting: For a richer topping, substitute the whipped topping with a buttercream frosting, and you can also color it red and green to match the theme.
• Chocolate Cake Base: Instead of using a white cake mix, you can use a chocolate cake mix for a twist on this traditional treat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: While the cake can technically be frozen, the whipped topping may not hold up well. If freezing, it’s best to freeze the cake without the topping and add fresh whipped cream or frosting when serving.
• Reheating: This cake is best served chilled. If you prefer to serve it slightly warmer, you can leave it out for 10-15 minutes before serving, but it’s meant to be enjoyed cold.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use whole eggs instead of egg whites? Yes, you can use whole eggs if you prefer, but egg whites help keep the cake lighter and fluffier.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can make this cake a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
3. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping? Yes, homemade whipped cream can be used in place of the whipped topping for a fresher taste.
4. Can I use a different size pan? You can use a different pan size, but the cake may bake differently. If you use a smaller pan, it may need longer baking time; a larger pan might require less time.
5. How can I make the holes in the cake evenly spaced? Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar utensil to poke holes, and try to space them about 1 inch apart.
6. Can I decorate with candy instead of sprinkles? Yes, you can decorate the cake with Christmas-themed candies such as M&Ms, candy canes, or chocolate chips.
7. Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes, you can use a gluten-free white cake mix to make this dessert gluten-free.
8. How long can I leave the cake in the refrigerator? The cake can stay in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it’s covered to prevent it from drying out.
9. Can I add more layers of pudding? While this recipe only calls for one layer of pudding, you can add additional layers if desired, but be sure not to over-saturate the cake.
10. What can I substitute for whipped topping? You can substitute whipped topping with cream cheese frosting, homemade whipped cream, or even a buttercream frosting for a richer topping.

Conclusion

Christmas Poke Cake is a festive and easy-to-make dessert that’s perfect for celebrating the holidays. With its pudding-filled cake, whipped topping, and fun decorations, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any Christmas gathering. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or bringing it to a holiday party, this cake is a deliciously festive way to spread cheer.

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