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Patriotic Poke Cake Recipe


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4.1 from 32 reviews

  • Author: Sophia
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 servings

Description

Red, white and blue Patriotic Poke Cake is a festive and delicious 4th of July dessert that is easy to make and perfect for holidays and parties. This vibrant cake features layers of colored batter swirled together, a creamy pudding filling poked into holes throughout the cake, and a fluffy whipped cream topping decorated with sprinkles. It can be prepared ahead of time and easily adapted with different colors for other celebrations.


Ingredients

Cake

  • 1 box white cake mix
  • Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (eggs, water, oil)

Pudding Filling

  • 2 (3.4 oz.) boxes instant cheesecake pudding mix
  • 3 1/2 cups milk

Whipped Cream Topping

  • 2 1/2 cups heavy cream, chilled
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar (or more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Additional

  • Red food coloring
  • Blue food coloring
  • Sprinkles for garnish


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with baking spray and set aside.
  2. Prepare Cake Batter: Make the cake batter according to the instructions on the box using the required eggs, water, and oil.
  3. Divide and Color Batter: Divide the batter evenly into three portions. Leave one portion white, add red food coloring to the second, and blue food coloring to the third. Stir each thoroughly until the colors are completely dissolved.
  4. Create Color Droplets: Using a spoon, quickly drop small spoonfuls of each colored batter into the bottom of the greased baking dish. Work in layers and colors sequentially to cover the bottom. Leave some space between drops. Tap the dish gently on the counter to level the surface without mixing colors. Use a toothpick to gently swirl the colors just a little to create a marbled effect without fully blending them.
  5. Bake the Cake: Bake the cake as directed on the box until fully cooked. Once baked, allow the cake to sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes.
  6. Poke the Cake: Using the handle end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. These holes will allow the pudding to seep inside.
  7. Prepare and Add Pudding: In a bowl, whisk together the instant cheesecake pudding mixes and 3 1/2 cups milk until the pudding is fully dissolved and starts to thicken but is not set. Pour the pudding evenly over the cooled cake, ensuring all the holes are filled. Spread the remaining pudding on top. Refrigerate until the pudding is completely set.
  8. Make Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, whip the heavy cream and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.
  9. Top and Garnish: Spread the whipped cream evenly over the set pudding layer. Garnish with sprinkles as desired.
  10. Chill and Serve: Keep the cake refrigerated until ready to serve. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator.

Notes

  • Do not spread colored batter with a spatula; tap the pan to even out the layers to maintain distinct colors.
  • Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes instead of a fork for larger, uniform holes.
  • The cake can be made a day ahead for best flavor and convenience.
  • Adjust the amount of powdered sugar in the whipped cream to your taste preference.
  • Colors can be changed easily for other holidays or themes.
  • Keep the cake refrigerated to maintain freshness after assembling.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American