Easter Poke Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Visually Stunning: The colorful swirls make this cake a show-stopping centerpiece for any Easter gathering.​

• Simple Ingredients: Utilizing a white cake mix and instant pudding simplifies the baking process without compromising taste.​

• Versatile: By adjusting the colors, this cake can be customized for various occasions beyond Easter.​

Ingredients

• 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, water, oil)​

• Food coloring (yellow, pink, blue, green)​

• 2 (3.4 oz.) boxes instant white chocolate pudding mix​

• 4 cups milk​

• 2 ½ cups heavy cream​

• ¼ cup powdered sugar (or more to taste)​

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract​

• Sprinkles for garnish​

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. Prepare the white cake mix as directed on the box. Divide the batter evenly into four bowls. Add a few drops of different food coloring to each bowl and mix until the desired shades are achieved.​

2. Create the Swirled Effect: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Using a teaspoon, drop spoonfuls of each colored batter randomly into the dish, creating a patchwork of colors. Once all the batter is in the dish, gently tap it on the counter to level the surface. Use a toothpick to slightly swirl the colors together for a marbled effect.​

3. Bake the Cake: Bake the cake according to the package instructions. Once baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes.​

4. Poke the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar utensil, poke holes all over the top of the cake, about an inch apart. Allow the cake to cool completely.​

5. Prepare the Pudding Filling: In a medium bowl, whisk together the white chocolate pudding mixes and 4 cups of milk until the pudding begins to thicken but is still pourable. Pour the pudding over the cooled cake, ensuring it fills the holes. Spread any remaining pudding evenly over the top. Refrigerate the cake until the pudding is set.​

6. Make the Whipped Cream Topping: In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the set pudding layer on the cake.​

7. Decorate: Add sprinkles on top for a festive touch.​

8. Serve: Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve. Slice and enjoy!​

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 12-15 slices​

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes​

• Baking Time: 25-30 minutes (as per cake mix instructions)​

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour, plus chilling time​

Variations

• Flavor Twist: Use different pudding flavors, such as vanilla or cheesecake, to change the taste profile.​

• Color Customization: Adjust the food coloring to match other holidays or themes, like red and green for Christmas or pastels for a baby shower.​

• Topping Alternatives: Instead of whipped cream, consider using cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor.​

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​

• Freezing: While the cake can be frozen, the texture of the pudding and whipped cream may change upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.​

FAQs

Can I use a homemade cake batter instead of a box mix?

Yes, you can use your favorite white cake recipe. Ensure the batter is light-colored to allow the added food coloring to show vividly.​

What type of food coloring is best for this cake?

Gel food coloring is recommended as it provides vibrant colors without altering the batter’s consistency.​

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Poke cakes often taste better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until serving.​

How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?

Ensure the cake is cooled before adding the pudding. Also, don’t overfill the holes with pudding to maintain the cake’s structure.​

Is there a substitute for white chocolate pudding?

If white chocolate pudding isn’t available, vanilla pudding can be used as a substitute.​

Conclusion

The Easter Poke Cake is a delightful and visually appealing dessert that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Its moist layers, creamy filling, and festive colors make it a perfect treat for celebrating Easter or any special occasion. ​

Easter Poke Cake

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• Author: Paula
• Total Time: ~1 hour (plus chilling time)
• Yield: 12-15 slices

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Description

This Easter Poke Cake is a colorful and festive dessert made with a moist white cake base, vibrant swirls, creamy white chocolate pudding filling, and a light whipped cream topping. Perfect for Easter celebrations, this easy-to-make poke cake is a delightful treat for all ages!

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, water, oil)
• Food coloring (yellow, pink, blue, green)

For the Pudding Filling:

• 2 (3.4 oz.) boxes instant white chocolate pudding mix
• 4 cups milk

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 2 ½ cups heavy cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar (or more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration:

• Sprinkles for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. Preheat the oven according to the cake mix instructions.
2. Prepare the white cake mix as directed on the box.
3. Divide the batter evenly into four bowls.
4. Add a few drops of different food coloring to each bowl and mix until vibrant.

2. Create the Swirled Effect:

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Using a teaspoon, drop spoonfuls of each colored batter randomly into the dish, creating a patchwork of colors.
3. Tap the pan gently on the counter to level the surface.
4. Use a toothpick to swirl the colors slightly for a marbled effect.

3. Bake the Cake:

1. Bake according to the package instructions.
2. Once baked, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes.

4. Poke the Cake:

1. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar utensil to poke holes all over the top of the cake, about 1 inch apart.
2. Let the cake cool completely.

5. Prepare the Pudding Filling:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the white chocolate pudding mix and milk until thickened but pourable.
2. Pour the pudding over the cooled cake, making sure it fills the holes.
3. Spread any remaining pudding evenly over the top.
4. Refrigerate the cake until the pudding is fully set.

6. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:

1. In a large mixing bowl, beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread the whipped cream over the pudding layer on the cake.

7. Decorate & Serve:

1. Add sprinkles on top for a festive touch.
2. Refrigerate the cake until ready to serve.
3. Slice and enjoy!

Notes

• Flavor Twist: Use vanilla or cheesecake pudding instead of white chocolate.
• Color Customization: Adjust food coloring for Christmas, birthdays, or baby showers.
• Topping Alternatives: Swap whipped cream for cream cheese frosting for a richer taste.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American, Easter