The Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe is the ultimate indulgence, a simple yet delicious dessert that’s guaranteed to impress.
It’s a moist white cake filled with a creamy vanilla pudding mixture, topped with a smooth whipped topping.
The magic happens when you poke holes into the warm cake and let the pudding soak in, creating a melt-in-your-mouth treat that’s perfect for any occasion.
I’m making this Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe for my close friends, a group that appreciates the perfect balance of sweetness and richness. The process is easy, fun, and full of laughter as we prepare the cake together.
Mixing the ingredients, watching the cake rise in the oven, and then topping it with the whipped cream is always a highlight.
It’s one of those recipes that brings joy not only from the taste but from the good times shared in the kitchen!
Why This Recipe Is The Best?
This recipe stands out for a few reasons. First, it uses a simple cake base, often made with a cake mix for convenience. This allows you to focus on the delicious filling and toppings.
Second, the “poking” technique creates little pockets in the cake that soak up the creamy pudding, resulting in an incredibly moist and flavorful dessert.
Finally, the endless topping possibilities let you customize this cake to your heart’s content!
How To Prepare Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe?
Recipe Details
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Course: Dessert
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cuisine: American
- Yield: 12 servings
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Spoon or spatula
- Small bowl (for mixing the pudding)
- Knife (for poking the cake)
Ingredients
- 1 box (18.25 ounces) of white cake mix
- 1 package (3.4 ounces) of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 can (14 ounces) of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces whipped topping (thawed)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup ice water
How To Make Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe
1. Preheat and Prepare Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Cake Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer or whisk to mix the ingredients until smooth and well-blended (about 2 minutes).
3. Bake the Cake:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
4. Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
While the cake is baking, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and sweetened condensed milk in a separate bowl. Add 1 cup of boiling water and whisk until the pudding thickens.
5. Poke the Cake:
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar object to poke holes all over the cake (about 15-20 holes).
6. Add the Pudding:
Pour the pudding mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it fills the holes you created. Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature.
7. Chill and Top the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled, place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the pudding set. After chilling, spread the thawed whipped topping over the cake.
8. Serve:
Slice the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy the creamy, moist texture of the Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe!
Nutrition Facts Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Sugar | 30g |
| Protein | 3g |
Tips And Variations
Tips:
1. Ensure the Cake is Warm: Make sure to poke the holes while the cake is still warm for better absorption of the pudding.
2. Chill Properly: Allow the cake to chill for the full 2 hours to ensure the pudding sets and the flavors meld together.
3. Use Homemade Whipped Cream: For a richer taste, you can use homemade whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping.
Variations:
1. Chocolate Vanilla Poke Cake: Substitute vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding for a delightful twist.
2. Fruit-Infused Poke Cake: Add fresh fruit puree or jam as the filling for a fruity variation.
3. Coconut Poke Cake: Replace the vanilla pudding with coconut cream pudding and top with shredded coconut.
Our Favorite Ways To Serve It Up
Our favorite ways to serve up this Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe are by topping it with fresh berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a burst of fruity freshness.
You can also drizzle some chocolate or caramel syrup on top for an indulgent twist. For extra texture, add a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or nuts, or even a few colorful sprinkles for a festive touch.
No matter how you serve it, this cake is always a crowd-pleaser!
More Vanilla Cake Recipes You’ll Love
Traditional Mexican Vanilla Cake
Strawberry And Vanilla Cake Recipe – A Sweet Slice
Vanilla Mousse Cake Filling Recipe || A Slice Of Heaven
French Vanilla Pound Cake | Buttery And Easy
Best Magnolia Vanilla Cake Recipe
FAQs About Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe
Can I use homemade cake mix instead of a boxed mix?
Yes, you can use a homemade vanilla cake mix if you prefer. Just follow your recipe for the cake base and proceed with the poke cake instructions.
What can I use instead of instant pudding mix?
You can make homemade vanilla pudding or use a different type of instant pudding if you prefer. Just ensure it sets well to fill the cake holes.
How long does the cake need to chill before serving?
The cake should chill for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set properly. Overnight chilling is also a good option for best results.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and add the whipped cream topping right before serving.
What are some other toppings I can use?
In addition to fresh berries and sauces, you can top the cake with sprinkles, chopped nuts, or even shredded coconut for added texture and flavor.
Conclusion
The Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that effortlessly blends simplicity with rich flavor. Its moist vanilla base, enhanced by the creamy pudding filling and topped with whipped cream, makes it a standout treat for any event.
The joy of preparing it, the laughter shared, and the smiles as everyone digs in make it a memorable and heartwarming experience.
It’s a reminder that food is not just about flavors, but about creating moments of connection and happiness.
So, grab your ingredients, invite some loved ones, and enjoy every bite of this delightful Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe!
Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Spoon or spatula
- Small bowl (for mixing the pudding)
- Knife (for poking the cake)
Ingredients
- 1 box 18.25 ounces of white cake mix
- 1 package 3.4 ounces of instant vanilla pudding mix
- 1 can 14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces whipped topping thawed
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- ¼ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1 cup ice water
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Cake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish, or line it with parchment paper.
Make the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Use an electric mixer or whisk to mix the ingredients until smooth and well-blended (about 2 minutes).
Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
- While the cake is baking, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and sweetened condensed milk in a separate bowl. Add 1 cup of boiling water and whisk until the pudding thickens.
Poke the Cake:
- Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar object to poke holes all over the cake (about 15-20 holes).
Add the Pudding:
- Pour the pudding mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it fills the holes you created. Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature.
Chill and Top the Cake:
- Once the cake has cooled, place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to let the pudding set. After chilling, spread the thawed whipped topping over the cake.
Serve:
- Slice the cake into squares and serve. Enjoy the creamy, moist texture of the Vanilla Poke Cake Recipe!