Poke cakes are a delightful treat that never fails to impress. The moist, fluffy texture and the burst of flavors from the fillings make them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to brighten up your day, poke cakes are the perfect way to go. And the best part? They’re incredibly easy to make! With a few simple ingredients and some creative flair, you can create an endless variety of flavors.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 delicious poke cake recipes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From classic strawberry and chocolate to unique flavors like pina colada and mint chocolate, there’s something for everyone. So grab a mixing bowl and let’s get started on our poke cake adventure!
Strawberry Jell-O Poke Cake
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of strawberries with the lightness of a poke cake, making it perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of strawberry Jell-O
– 1 cup boiling water
– 1 cup cold milk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 9×13-inch pan of pound cake (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup whipped cream
– Fresh strawberries, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, dissolve the Jell-O in boiling water.
2. Add cold milk and stir until dissolved.
3. Pour the mixture over the cooled pound cake in a 9×13-inch pan.
4. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight to allow the Jell-O to set.
5. Top with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-bake dessert!
Chocolate Pudding Poke Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this rich and creamy chocolate poke cake, infused with the deep flavor of pudding. This moist and indulgent treat is perfect for satisfying any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15.5 oz) package chocolate cake mix
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons instant chocolate pudding mix
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake cake according to package instructions.
2. Allow the cake to cool completely before poking holes with a fork, about 1 inch apart.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, chocolate pudding mix, and vanilla extract until well combined.
4. Pour the creamy mixture into the poked cake, allowing it to absorb evenly.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Lime Poke Cake
Brighten up your dessert game with this refreshing Lemon Lime Poke Cake! A moist and flavorful cake infused with the zesty goodness of lemon and lime, perfect for warm weather gatherings or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and line with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together butter, eggs, lemon juice, and lime juice.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Allow cake to cool completely before poking holes all over with a fork.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Blueberry Cheesecake Poke Cake
This Blueberry Cheesecake Poke Cake is a moist and creamy dessert that combines the flavors of blueberries, cheesecake, and vanilla cake. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or just a sweet treat after dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 16 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely.
6. Poke holes all over the top of the cake with a skewer or fork.
7. In a small bowl, mix softened cream cheese and granulated sugar.
8. Pour cheesecake mixture into poked holes, spreading evenly.
9. Top with fresh blueberries.
10. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Moist vanilla cake gets a creamy makeover with the addition of banana pudding and whipped cream. This show-stopping dessert is perfect for special occasions or casual gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 (15.5 oz) package of moist vanilla cake mix
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup mashed ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup banana pudding mix
– 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– Whipped cream and additional sliced bananas for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake cake according to package instructions.
2. Allow cake to cool completely, then poke holes all over the top using a fork or skewer.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and mashed bananas until smooth.
4. Pour banana mixture evenly over the top of the cooled cake, allowing it to absorb into the holes.
5. In another bowl, whisk together pudding mix and whipped cream until stiff peaks form.
6. Top the cake with whipped cream mixture, spreading evenly.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Orange Creamsicle Poke Cake
Add a burst of citrusy sunshine to your dessert table with this moist and flavorful Orange Creamsicle Poke Cake!
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch cake (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons orange extract
– 2 cups powdered sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– Orange zest and slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake according to package instructions or your own recipe.
2. Poke holes all over the cooled cake using a skewer or fork.
3. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, orange extract, powdered sugar, and salt until smooth.
4. Add softened butter and mix until fully incorporated.
5. Pour the mixture into the poked cake, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
7. Just before serving, whisk in eggs and adjust consistency if needed.
Cooking Time: None (popping the cream mixture into the cake), refrigeration time: at least 2 hours
Pina Colada Poke Cake
Escape to the islands with this moist and creamy Pina Colada Poke Cake, infused with the sweet flavors of pineapple and coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of white cake mix
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Poke holes all over the cooled cake using a skewer or fork.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, butter, and vanilla extract. Pour mixture into the poked cake, allowing it to absorb evenly.
4. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Fold in shredded coconut and chopped pineapple.
5. Spread whipped topping over the cake, smoothing out any wrinkles.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes (depending on oven temperature)
Red Velvet Poke Cake
This moist and decadent Red Velvet Poke Cake is perfect for special occasions or just a sweet treat any time of the year. With its deep red color and subtle cocoa flavor, this cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch pan
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon red food coloring
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, oil, eggs, red food coloring, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Let cake cool completely before poking holes with a skewer and pouring in heavy cream.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Dust with confectioners’ sugar, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pumpkin Spice Poke Cake
Get ready for a moist and flavorful dessert that combines the warmth of pumpkin spice with the tender texture of a classic poke cake. This recipe is perfect for fall gatherings or as a sweet treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch baking dish
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Add sugar, pumpkin puree, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
5. Poke holes all over the cake with a skewer or fork.
6. Whisk together confectioners’ sugar (if using) and vanilla extract to create a glaze. Drizzle over the cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Peanut Butter Cup Poke Cake
Get ready for a rich and indulgent dessert that combines the classic flavors of peanut butter cups with a moist and fluffy poke cake.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of white cake mix (15.25 oz)
– 1 cup of whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup of creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 12-14 peanut butter cups, chopped
– Whipped cream and additional chopped peanut butter cups for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions using whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
2. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Use a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake, creating a “poke” effect.
4. Melt peanut butter and sugar in a microwave-safe bowl in 10-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Pour the melted peanut butter mixture evenly over the cooled cake, spreading it with a spatula to cover the entire surface.
6. Sprinkle chopped peanut butter cups on top of the cake.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cherry Vanilla Poke Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this moist and flavorful cherry vanilla poke cake. A perfect combination of sweet and tangy, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch pan
– 15 oz (425g) white cake mix
– 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup (120g) maraschino cherries, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup (30g) powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease the cake pan.
2. Mix cake mix, milk, eggs, and melted butter in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
4. Remove from oven and let cool for 5 minutes.
5. Poke holes all over the top of the cake using a fork.
6. Mix vanilla extract with chopped cherries and pour mixture evenly over the cake.
7. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Cream Poke Cake
This rich and creamy cake is infused with the sweetness of coconut and topped with a velvety whipped cream. Perfect for special occasions or just because.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup heavy cream, chilled
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, coconut, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool completely.
7. Poke holes all over the cake with a skewer or fork.
8. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
9. Pour whipped cream over the cake and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
10. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Raspberry White Chocolate Poke Cake
Raspberry White Chocolate Poke Cake: A moist and flavorful dessert featuring sweet white chocolate and tart raspberries.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch pan, greased and floured
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup white chocolate chips
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine softened butter, milk, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
7. Melt white chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl (10-second intervals, stirring between each interval).
8. Poke holes all over cake with a skewer. Pour melted white chocolate into holes, allowing it to seep into the cake.
9. Top with fresh raspberries and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Key Lime Poke Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this refreshing Key Lime Poke Cake, infused with the bright and citrusy flavor of key lime.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 2 tablespoons key lime juice
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, milk, key lime juice, and vanilla extract.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
6. Allow cake to cool completely before poking holes all over with a skewer or fork.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cookies and Cream Poke Cake
This moist vanilla cake gets a boost of flavor from crushed cookies and creamy whipped topping, making it the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13 inch vanilla cake
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup crushed Oreo cookies
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Poke holes all over the top of the cake using a fork or skewer.
3. In a large bowl, whip heavy cream and butter until stiff peaks form.
4. Add vanilla extract and mix until combined.
5. Pour whipped mixture evenly over the poked cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
6. Sprinkle crushed Oreos over the top of the cake.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None (assembled cake)
Caramel Apple Poke Cake
A moist and flavorful cake filled with caramel apples, topped with a crunchy streusel topping, this Caramel Apple Poke Cake is perfect for fall gatherings or any time of the year. With its sweet and tangy flavors, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 (15.25 oz) package yellow cake mix
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 can (14.4 oz) caramel sauce
– 3-4 apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare cake mix according to package instructions. Pour into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
4. While cake is still warm, poke holes all over with a skewer or fork.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce evenly over the cake, then top with sliced apples and chopped pecans.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Black Forest Poke Cake
This rich and indulgent cake combines the classic flavors of chocolate, cherry, and whipped cream to create a truly decadent dessert. With its moist texture and intense flavor profile, this Black Forest poke cake is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 9×13-inch baking pan
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1 can (16 ounces) cherry pie filling
– Whipped cream and chocolate shavings for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the baking pan and line with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add milk, eggs, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before poking holes with a fork and drizzling with cherry pie filling.
6. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tiramisu Poke Cake
Elevate your dessert game with this unique Tiramisu Poke Cake recipe, where the richness of coffee and chocolate meets the simplicity of a poke cake. Perfect for special occasions or just because!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of white cake mix
– 1 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 cup strong brewed coffee
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 8 ounces mascarpone cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream, whipped
– Chocolate shavings or sprinkles for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions.
2. Pour the batter into a greased and floured 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Allow the cake to cool completely before poking holes with a fork.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together coffee, cocoa powder, and confectioners’ sugar.
6. Pour the mixture into the cooled cake, making sure it’s evenly distributed.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
8. Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings (if using). Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Funfetti Poke Cake
Brighten up your special occasions with this delightful Funfetti Poke Cake! Moist, flavorful cake infused with funfetti and topped with a creamy whipped topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup funfetti sprinkles
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour and sugar in medium bowl. Add eggs one at a time, whisking until smooth. Whisk in milk and vanilla extract.
3. Pour batter into prepared baking dish. Sprinkle funfetti sprinkles evenly over the top.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
Whipped Cream Topping:
1. Beat heavy cream and confectioners’ sugar in a large bowl until stiff peaks form.
2. Spread whipped topping evenly over cooled cake.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mint Chocolate Poke Cake
Moist vanilla cake gets a boost of flavor and freshness with the addition of peppermint extract and chocolate glaze. This unique dessert is perfect for warm weather gatherings or as a pick-me-up treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
– 1 cup whole milk
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
– Chocolate glaze (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Add softened butter and mix until combined.
3. Beat in eggs, peppermint extract, and milk. Pour batter into prepared dish.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
5. Allow cake to cool completely before poking holes with a skewer.
6. Drizzle chocolate glaze over the top of the cake.
Chocolate Glaze:
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
Melt chocolate and butter in a microwave-safe bowl for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until smooth.
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the world of poke cakes with these 20 mouth-watering recipes! From classic flavors like strawberry and chocolate to unique combinations like pina colada and mint chocolate, there’s something for every occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just want to treat yourself, thesepoke cakes are sure to impress. With a variety of flavors and textures, you’ll find the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings.
