Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Looking for a show-stopping dessert to impress your guests this holiday season? The Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is a perfect choice! This festive treat combines the rich flavor of red velvet cake with a creamy filling and a touch of holiday magic. Its vibrant red and white layers make it a visual delight, while its moist and decadent taste will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to creating this easy and delicious dessert.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box of red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
• 1 cup of buttermilk (optional, for extra moistness)

For the Filling:

• 1 package (3.4 oz) of instant white chocolate pudding mix
• 2 cups of cold milk

For the Topping:

• 1 container (8 oz) of whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
• Green and red sprinkles
• Crushed peppermint candies (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions. For an extra moist cake, replace the water with buttermilk.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for the time specified on the box. Allow the cake to cool completely.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

1. Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes evenly across the surface. Ensure the holes go halfway down but not all the way to the bottom.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant white chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until it thickens.
2. Pour the pudding mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Spread evenly with a spatula.

Step 4: Add the Topping

1. Spread the whipped topping over the pudding layer.
2. Decorate with green and red sprinkles for a festive touch. For extra holiday cheer, sprinkle crushed peppermint candies on top.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

1. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
2. Slice, serve, and enjoy your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake with family and friends!

Tips for Success

• Customization: Add a layer of cream cheese frosting under the whipped topping for an extra tangy flavor.
• Make Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, so consider preparing it a day in advance.
• Festive Touch: Use holiday-themed cake toppers or edible glitter to enhance the presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make. Its combination of textures—soft cake, creamy filling, and fluffy topping—makes it irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a big holiday gathering or looking for a dessert to wow your coworkers, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit!

Serving and Storage Tips for Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Serving Tips

• Presentation: Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices and serve on festive dessert plates to enhance the holiday vibe. Garnish each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint for added flair.
• Pairings: Serve with a warm cup of hot cocoa, spiced eggnog, or a glass of chilled milk for a perfect holiday treat.
• Temperature: Keep the cake refrigerated until ready to serve. The cool, creamy layers are especially refreshing after a hearty holiday meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store the poke cake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake without the whipped topping for up to 2 months. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then add the whipped topping and decorations.
• Avoid Soggy Topping: If you plan to store leftovers with the whipped topping, ensure the cake is well-covered to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors or drying out.

By following these tips, your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake will remain as delicious and festive as the day you made it! 🎂

1. Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a boxed mix?

Yes! If you prefer a homemade version, you can make a red velvet cake from scratch using your favorite recipe. Just bake it in a 9×13-inch pan and follow the same steps to poke holes and add the filling.

2. Can I use a different flavor of pudding for the filling?

Absolutely! While white chocolate pudding complements the red velvet cake beautifully, you can experiment with vanilla, cheesecake, or even chocolate pudding for a unique twist.

3. What can I use instead of whipped topping?

If you prefer not to use store-bought whipped topping, you can make homemade whipped cream. Simply whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form, then spread it over the cake.

4. How far in advance can I make this cake?

You can make the poke cake up to 2 days in advance. In fact, letting it chill overnight allows the flavors to meld together, making the cake even more delicious. Just add the whipped topping and decorations shortly before serving for the freshest look.

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