Poke Cake
Indulge in the delightful world of poke cake, a dessert that combines moist cake with vibrant flavors and toppings. This easy-to-make treat is perfect for parties, potlucks, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. With its colorful layers and creamy frosting, poke cake is not just a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat. Get ready to impress your guests with this fun and flavorful dessert!
Ingredients
– 1 box of cake mix (vanilla or your choice)
– 1 cup of water
– 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk
– 1 cup of flavored gelatin (e.g., strawberry, blue raspberry)
– 1 tub of whipped topping
– Fresh berries for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This poke cake serves 12 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 8g fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. This information is based on a standard serving size.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, water, oil, and eggs.
3. Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes.
4. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
5. Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes.
7. Poke holes all over the cake using a fork or skewer.
8. In a separate bowl, dissolve the flavored gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water.
9. Pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
10. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to set.
11. Spread whipped topping over the chilled cake and garnish with fresh berries.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the cake mix with a homemade cake recipe or use gluten-free cake mix for a gluten-free option. Additionally, you can replace sweetened condensed milk with coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Serving and Pairings
Poke cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s also delightful when served alongside fresh fruit or a berry compote.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover poke cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to a month; just be sure to wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the cooling time before poking holes.
– Ensure the gelatin is fully dissolved before pouring.
– Avoid overbaking the cake to keep it moist.
– Use a fork to poke holes evenly for better absorption.
– Don’t forget to refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Helpful Tips
– Experiment with different flavors of gelatin for unique tastes.
– Decorate with seasonal fruits for a beautiful presentation.
– Use a cake server for easy slicing and serving.
– For extra flavor, add a layer of cream cheese frosting.
FAQs
What is a poke cake?
A poke cake is a dessert where holes are poked into a baked cake, allowing flavored liquids, such as gelatin or pudding, to seep in, creating a moist and flavorful treat.
Can I make poke cake ahead of time?
Yes, poke cake can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is covered and stored in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
What flavors can I use for poke cake?
You can use any flavored gelatin or pudding to create various flavor combinations, such as lemon, lime, or even chocolate!
Is poke cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make poke cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free cake mix and ensuring all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
How do I prevent the cake from being too soggy?
Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the gelatin, and don’t pour too much liquid over the cake.
Conclusion
Poke cake is a fun, versatile dessert that is sure to be a hit at any gathering. Its vibrant colors and delicious flavors make it an irresistible treat. With this easy recipe, you can impress family and friends while enjoying a delightful sweet experience!
Poke Cake
Ingredients
- 1 box of cake mix vanilla or your choice
- 1 cup of water
- 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup of flavored gelatin e.g., strawberry, blue raspberry
- 1 tub of whipped topping
- Fresh berries for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, water, oil, and eggs.
- Beat the mixture with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 15 minutes.
- Poke holes all over the cake using a fork or skewer.
- In a separate bowl, dissolve the flavored gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water.
- Pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to set.
- Spread whipped topping over the chilled cake and garnish with fresh berries.