Easter Poke Cake Recipe

Easter at our house isn’t just about egg hunts and chocolate bunnies; it’s synonymous with the vibrant, moist, and utterly delightful Easter Poke Cake. For years, this recipe has been the star of our dessert table, a colorful centerpiece that embodies the joy and freshness of spring. I remember the first time I made it – a slightly chaotic, flour-dusted afternoon with my kids ‘helping’ (mostly taste-testing the pudding!). The result, however, was pure magic. A tender cake, soaked in creamy pudding and topped with a cloud of whipped cream and pastel candies, it vanished within minutes. Since then, it’s become a beloved tradition, requested year after year. Even those who claim they’re “not dessert people” find themselves sneaking back for seconds. This isn’t just a cake; it’s a memory maker, a taste of happiness, and an incredibly easy way to impress your Easter crowd. If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s both simple to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, look no further. This Easter Poke Cake recipe is your ticket to springtime dessert success.

Ingredients: Your Easter Poke Cake Shopping List

To create this vibrant and delicious Easter Poke Cake, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Let’s break down each component, ensuring you have everything you need for baking success. Remember, quality ingredients will elevate the flavor profile of your cake, so choose the best you can!

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 ounces) White Cake Mix: The foundation of our poke cake! A white cake mix provides a light and neutral base, allowing the flavors of the pudding and toppings to truly shine. You can opt for your favorite brand; most standard white cake mixes will work beautifully. Look for a “super moist” variety for extra tenderness. If you prefer a slightly different flavor profile, you could also use a yellow cake mix, though the white cake provides the best visual contrast for the pastel colors. For a richer flavor, consider a butter recipe white cake mix. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even make a white cake from scratch, but using a mix simplifies the process and ensures consistent results, especially for beginner bakers.
• 1 ¼ cups Water: Water is crucial for hydrating the cake mix and activating the leavening agents, resulting in a moist and fluffy crumb. Ensure your water is at room temperature for optimal mixing. Cold water can sometimes hinder the activation of the baking powder or baking soda in the mix.
• ⅓ cup Vegetable Oil: Oil adds moisture and tenderness to the cake. Vegetable oil is a neutral-flavored oil that won’t interfere with the other flavors in the cake. You can also use canola oil or another neutral-flavored oil. Avoid using strongly flavored oils like olive oil, as they will alter the taste of your cake. The fat content in the oil contributes to the cake’s soft texture and prevents it from drying out.
• 3 Large Eggs: Eggs act as binders, adding structure and richness to the cake. They also contribute to the cake’s moisture and tenderness. Use large eggs for this recipe, as smaller eggs might not provide enough binding power. Ensure your eggs are also at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify more easily with the other ingredients, leading to a smoother batter and a more evenly textured cake.

For the Pudding Filling:

• 1 package (3.4 ounces) Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This is the key to the “poke” in poke cake! Instant vanilla pudding is perfect because it sets quickly and creates those delicious pockets of creamy flavor throughout the cake. Make sure you use instant pudding mix, not cook-and-serve. Cook-and-serve pudding will not set properly in the cake. Vanilla is a classic choice, but you can experiment with other flavors like lemon, coconut, or even pistachio for a unique twist.
• 2 cups Cold Milk: Milk is essential for making the pudding. Use cold milk straight from the refrigerator for the best results. Cold milk helps the instant pudding set up quickly and prevents lumps from forming. You can use 2% milk, whole milk, or even a non-dairy milk alternative like almond milk or oat milk, although the texture and flavor might slightly vary depending on the type of milk used. Whole milk will result in a richer and creamier pudding.
• Food Coloring (Pastel Colors): This is where the Easter magic happens! Pastel food coloring, in shades of pink, blue, yellow, and green, will transform your vanilla pudding into a vibrant, springtime spectacle. Gel food coloring is recommended over liquid food coloring as it is more concentrated and won’t thin out the pudding. Start with a small amount of coloring and gradually add more until you achieve your desired pastel shades. Remember, a little goes a long way with gel food coloring!

For the Frosting and Decoration:

• 1 container (8 ounces) Frozen Whipped Topping, thawed: Whipped topping provides a light, airy, and slightly sweet frosting for the cake. Make sure it is fully thawed before using for the smoothest application. You can use regular or light whipped topping depending on your preference. For a richer frosting, you can use homemade whipped cream, but whipped topping is a convenient and readily available option.
• ½ cup Shredded Coconut (Optional): Shredded coconut adds a touch of texture and a subtle coconut flavor that complements the vanilla and pastel colors beautifully. You can use sweetened or unsweetened shredded coconut. If you want to toast the coconut for extra flavor and crunch, spread it on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown, watching carefully to prevent burning.
• Pastel Sprinkles, Candy Eggs, Jelly Beans, or other Easter Candies: These are the finishing touches that make your Easter Poke Cake truly festive! Choose your favorite pastel sprinkles, candy eggs, jelly beans, or other Easter candies to decorate the top of the cake. Get creative and let your imagination run wild! Consider using different shapes, sizes, and textures of candies for visual interest. Mini marshmallows, pastel M&Ms, and edible glitter are also great options.
• Optional Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest, grated finely over the finished cake, can add a bright, citrusy note that cuts through the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile. Use a microplane or fine grater to zest the lemon, being careful to only zest the yellow part of the peel and avoid the bitter white pith underneath.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to embark on creating your stunning Easter Poke Cake! Each ingredient plays a vital role in the final result, so ensure you have everything on your list before you begin.

Instructions: Baking Your Easter Poke Cake Step-by-Step

Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for creating this delightful Easter Poke Cake. Follow these directions carefully for a guaranteed success!

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter and Bake

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. Greasing and flouring prevents the cake from sticking to the pan and ensures easy removal after baking. You can also use baking spray with flour for convenience. Alternatively, line the pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to lift the baked cake out easily.
2. Combine Cake Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Follow the instructions on your specific cake mix box for the order and method of mixing. Generally, it’s best to start with the liquid ingredients and then gradually add the dry mix.
3. Mix Until Just Combined: Using an electric mixer (handheld or stand mixer), beat the ingredients on low speed until just combined. Then, increase the speed to medium and beat for 2 minutes, as directed by your cake mix instructions. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough cake. Mix until the batter is smooth and no lumps remain.
4. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the cake batter evenly into the prepared 9×13 inch baking pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter to the corners of the pan and ensure it’s level for even baking.
5. Bake Until Golden Brown and Springy: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown around the edges and spring back lightly when gently pressed in the center. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness around 25 minutes.
6. Cool Cake Completely: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing the cake to cool completely is crucial before poking holes and adding the pudding, as warm cake can cause the pudding to become runny or soak in unevenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pudding Filling and Poke the Cake

1. Prepare Instant Pudding: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened. Whisk vigorously for 1-2 minutes to ensure the pudding mix is fully dissolved and no lumps remain. The pudding will thicken as it sits.
2. Divide Pudding and Add Food Coloring: Divide the prepared pudding evenly into several small bowls (one for each color you want to create). Add a few drops of pastel food coloring to each bowl and stir until you achieve your desired pastel shades. Start with a small amount of food coloring and gradually add more until you reach the desired intensity. Remember, you can always add more color, but it’s harder to remove it!
3. Poke Holes in Cooled Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon, a fork, or a straw to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. The holes should be about 1 inch apart and go about ¾ of the way down into the cake. The more holes you poke, the more pudding will soak into the cake, resulting in a moister and more flavorful dessert.
4. Spoon Colored Pudding into Holes: Carefully spoon the colored pudding into the holes you’ve poked in the cake. Alternate colors for a vibrant, marbled effect. You can use a teaspoon or a small spoon to fill the holes. Don’t worry if some pudding spills over onto the surface of the cake; it will add to the overall moistness.
5. Refrigerate Cake to Set: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the pudding to fully soak into the cake and set completely. Chilling the cake also helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to frost.

Step 3: Frost and Decorate Your Easter Poke Cake

1. Frost with Whipped Topping: Once the cake is thoroughly chilled and the pudding is set, remove it from the refrigerator. Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake, creating a smooth and creamy frosting layer. You can use a spatula or an offset spatula for even spreading.
2. Decorate with Toppings: If using, sprinkle shredded coconut over the whipped topping. Then, decorate the cake with pastel sprinkles, candy eggs, jelly beans, or other Easter candies of your choice. Arrange the candies artfully to create a festive and visually appealing design. Get creative and have fun with the decorations!
3. Optional Lemon Zest: If desired, finely grate lemon zest over the finished cake just before serving for a touch of citrusy brightness.
4. Serve and Enjoy! Slice your beautiful Easter Poke Cake and serve chilled. Prepare for rave reviews!

Following these detailed instructions will guide you through each step of making your Easter Poke Cake, ensuring a delicious and visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for your Easter celebration.

Nutrition Facts: A Treat to Indulge In Moderation

Understanding the nutritional content of your Easter Poke Cake can help you make informed choices and enjoy this treat as part of a balanced diet. Please note that these are approximate values and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Servings: This recipe typically yields 12-16 servings, depending on how you slice the cake. For nutritional estimations, we will consider 12 servings for a generous slice.

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving (based on 12 servings):

• Calories: 350-450 calories (This can vary depending on the type of cake mix, pudding, and toppings used. Cakes with richer mixes or heavier toppings will be higher in calories.)
• Total Fat: 15-20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 8-12 grams (Primarily from the oil, eggs, and whipped topping)
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams (Generally trans fat-free if using standard cake mix and whipped topping; always check labels)
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5-8 grams (From vegetable oil and eggs)
• Cholesterol: 50-70 mg (From eggs)
• Sodium: 300-400 mg (Can vary significantly based on the cake mix and pudding mix brand. Check labels for sodium content)
• Total Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
  • Dietary Fiber: 0-1 gram (Poke cake is not a significant source of fiber)
  • Sugars: 30-40 grams (From cake mix, pudding mix, whipped topping, and candies)
• Protein: 3-5 grams (From eggs and milk in the pudding)

Important Considerations:

• Sugar Content: Easter Poke Cake is a dessert and is naturally high in sugar. Enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
• Fat Content: It contains a moderate amount of fat, primarily from saturated fat.
• Nutrient Density: Poke cake is not a nutrient-dense food, meaning it’s high in calories and lower in essential vitamins and minerals.
• Variations: Using light whipped topping and reducing the amount of candy toppings can slightly reduce the calorie and fat content.

Disclaimer: These nutrition facts are estimates and for informational purposes only. For precise nutritional information, refer to the nutrition labels of the specific ingredients you use and utilize online nutrition calculators. If you have specific dietary concerns, consult with a registered dietitian or nutritionist.

Preparation Time: Plan Your Baking Schedule

Knowing the preparation time for your Easter Poke Cake helps you plan your baking schedule effectively, especially when preparing for a holiday gathering. Here’s a breakdown:

• Active Prep Time: 30-40 minutes (This includes measuring ingredients, mixing the cake batter, preparing the pudding, poking holes, and assembling the cake)
• Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
• Cooling Time (Cake): 1-2 hours (Cake needs to cool completely before poking holes)
• Chilling Time (Cake with Pudding): Minimum 2 hours, ideally overnight (For pudding to set and flavors to meld)
• Frosting and Decorating Time: 15-20 minutes

Total Time (Approximate): Minimum 5 hours 10 minutes to overnight (including chilling time).

Timeline Breakdown for Baking on Easter Day:

• Morning (8:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Bake the cake. Allow it to cool for a couple of hours.
• Mid-Morning (10:00 AM – 11:00 AM): Prepare the pudding, poke holes in the cooled cake, and pour in the pudding. Refrigerate.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM – 3:00 PM onwards): Frost and decorate the cake. Keep refrigerated until serving time.

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Bake the Cake Ahead: The cake can be baked a day or two in advance and stored tightly wrapped at room temperature.
• Prepare Pudding Ahead: The pudding can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.
• Assemble Ahead: The entire cake (with pudding soaked in) can be assembled a day ahead and kept refrigerated. Frost and decorate just before serving for the freshest appearance of the whipped topping.

Planning is Key: While the active prep time is relatively short, the cooling and chilling time are significant. Factor these into your schedule to ensure your Easter Poke Cake is ready and perfectly chilled for your celebration.

How to Serve Your Easter Poke Cake: Presentation and Pairings

Easter Poke Cake is a versatile dessert that can be served in various ways to enhance the experience. Here are some ideas for serving and presentation:

Serving Suggestions:

• Chilled Slices: The most classic and refreshing way to serve Easter Poke Cake is chilled, straight from the refrigerator. The cold cake and pudding are especially delightful on a warm spring day.
• Individual Portions: For easy serving at a party, cut the cake into individual squares or rectangles before placing it on a serving platter.
• With Fresh Fruit: Complement the sweetness of the cake with a side of fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries. The tartness of the berries balances the richness of the cake beautifully.
• Alongside Ice Cream: For an extra indulgent treat, serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream, coconut ice cream, or even lemon sorbet alongside a slice of poke cake.
• Coffee or Tea Pairing: Easter Poke Cake pairs perfectly with a cup of hot coffee or tea. The warm beverage complements the cold, creamy cake.
• Milk or Sparkling Water: For a kid-friendly option, serve with a glass of cold milk. Sparkling water or flavored sparkling water can also be a refreshing accompaniment.

Presentation Ideas:

• Elegant Platter: Arrange the cake slices on a pretty serving platter or cake stand. Garnish the platter with fresh berries or mint sprigs for an elegant touch.
• Individual Dessert Cups: For a more sophisticated presentation, cut the cake into smaller cubes and layer them with whipped topping and pudding in individual dessert cups or glasses. This is great for portion control and looks beautiful.
• Dusting of Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar over the whipped topping adds a delicate touch and visual appeal.
• Candied Flowers: For a truly special Easter presentation, consider decorating with candied edible flowers like pansies or violets.
• Ribbon Accent: Tie a pastel-colored ribbon around the serving platter or cake stand for a festive Easter touch.
• Creative Sprinkles: Use a variety of pastel sprinkles, not just a single type, to create a more visually interesting and textured topping. Consider using sanding sugar, jimmies, and nonpareils.
• Edible Easter Grass: Place a bed of edible Easter grass (often made from shredded coconut and food coloring) around the base of the cake on the platter for a playful Easter theme.

Consider the Occasion:

• Casual Easter Brunch: Serve slices directly from the pan for a relaxed, family-style brunch.
• Formal Easter Dinner: Opt for individual dessert cups or a beautifully decorated platter for a more elegant dinner party.
• Potluck or Picnic: Poke cake travels well and is a great choice for potlucks and picnics. Keep it chilled until serving.

By considering both the serving method and presentation, you can elevate your Easter Poke Cake from a simple dessert to a truly special and memorable part of your Easter celebration.

Additional Tips for Easter Poke Cake Perfection

To ensure your Easter Poke Cake is a resounding success, here are five additional tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overbake the Cake: Overbaking can result in a dry cake, which won’t absorb the pudding as well. Bake just until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the edges are lightly golden. Err on the side of slightly underbaked if you’re unsure, as the pudding will add moisture.
2. Poke Holes Generously: Don’t be shy about poking holes! The more holes you create, the more pudding can soak into the cake, resulting in a moister and more flavorful final product. Ensure the holes are evenly distributed across the entire surface of the cake.
3. Chill Thoroughly: Chilling the cake for at least 2 hours, and preferably overnight, is crucial. This allows the pudding to fully set, soak into the cake, and for the flavors to meld together beautifully. Chilling also makes the cake easier to frost and slice.
4. Use Quality Ingredients (Where it Matters): While cake mix is convenient, using good quality pudding mix and whipped topping can elevate the overall taste. Consider using a premium brand of vanilla pudding and real whipped cream (if you prefer homemade) for a richer flavor.
5. Get Creative with Flavors and Colors: Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try different flavors of cake mix (lemon, coconut), pudding (chocolate, pistachio), or extracts (almond, citrus). Use a wider range of pastel colors in your pudding for a more vibrant and artistic effect. Consider adding a layer of fruit filling (like crushed pineapple or strawberry preserves) between the cake and pudding for extra flavor and texture.

By incorporating these tips, you can further enhance your Easter Poke Cake and create a truly exceptional dessert that everyone will love.

FAQ: Your Easter Poke Cake Questions Answered

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about making Easter Poke Cake:

Q1: Can I make Easter Poke Cake ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! In fact, Easter Poke Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. You can bake the cake a day or two in advance, and assemble the entire cake (including pudding and frosting) up to 24 hours before serving. The chilling time is actually beneficial for flavor development. Just decorate closer to serving time to keep the toppings fresh.

Q2: Can I use a different flavor of cake mix or pudding?

A: Yes, you can definitely customize the flavors! Yellow cake mix, lemon cake mix, or even coconut cake mix would work well. For pudding, consider lemon pudding, coconut cream pudding, or even pistachio pudding for unique variations. Match your pudding flavor to your cake mix for a harmonious combination.

Q3: What if I don’t have pastel food coloring? Can I still make it festive?

A: Of course! If you don’t have pastel food coloring, you can use regular food coloring and use it sparingly to achieve lighter shades. Alternatively, you can skip coloring the pudding altogether and focus on using pastel sprinkles and candies for decoration. The cake will still be delicious and festive!

Q4: Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of whipped topping?

A: Yes, homemade whipped cream is a delicious alternative to whipped topping. It will be richer and have a more pronounced dairy flavor. If using homemade whipped cream, make sure to whip it to stiff peaks and stabilize it with a bit of powdered sugar or gelatin to help it hold its shape for longer, especially if the cake will be sitting out at room temperature for a while.

Q5: How should I store leftover Easter Poke Cake?

A: Store leftover Easter Poke Cake covered tightly in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. The cake is actually often even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Because of the dairy content in the pudding and whipped topping, refrigeration is essential for food safety.

We hope these FAQs address any questions you might have. If you have any more, feel free to ask! Enjoy baking your delicious and festive Easter Poke Cake!

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