Cranberry Poke Cake

This Cranberry Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that perfectly blends the sweetness of cake with the tartness of cranberry sauce. Ideal for holiday gatherings, this festive treat is not only visually appealing but also incredibly easy to make. The moist texture and vibrant colors make it a standout choice for Christmas parties or family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive Flavors: The sweet and tart combination of cranberry makes it a perfect holiday dessert.
• Easy to Prepare: Using a boxed cake mix simplifies the process, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the festivities.
• Impressive Presentation: The colorful whipped topping and sprinkles ensure your cake looks as good as it tastes.
• Versatile Dessert: Suitable for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to casual weeknight dinners.
• Make-Ahead Option: This cake can be prepared in advance, making it convenient for busy hosts.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Cranberry Poke Cake, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or electric mixer
• Saucepan
• Wooden spoon or straw

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking pan: Perfect size for even baking and serving.
• Mixing bowl: Allows for easy combining of ingredients without mess.
• Saucepan: Essential for heating the cranberry mixture evenly.
• Wooden spoon or straw: Great for creating holes in the cake to soak up the cranberry layer.

Ingredients

This Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake combines a moist white cake with a tangy cranberry layer and fluffy whipped topping, making it the perfect festive dessert.

For the Cake Base

• 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup water
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil

For the Cranberry Layer

• 1 can (14 oz) cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
• 1/2 cup water (for cranberry layer)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Topping

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Red and green sprinkles, for garnish

How to Make Cranberry Poke Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×13-inch baking pan. In a mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil as directed on the box. Pour into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool for 10-15 minutes after baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Cranberry Layer

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the cranberry sauce with 1/2 cup water and granulated sugar. Stir until well blended and heated through. Allow to cool slightly before using.

Step 3: Poke Holes in Cake

Once your cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes across the surface. Space them about 1 inch apart to ensure even soaking.

Step 4: Soak with Cranberry Mixture

Pour the warm cranberry mixture over your poked cake slowly, allowing it to seep into all holes. Let it cool completely at room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours.

Step 5: Add Whipped Topping

In a small bowl, mix together your whipped topping with vanilla extract until well combined. Spread this mixture evenly over your cooled cake once it’s chilled.

Step 6: Garnish Your Cake

Finish by sprinkling red and green sprinkles on top of your whipped cream layer for that festive touch!

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Slice into squares and serve chilled to enjoy this delightful Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake!

How to Serve Cranberry Poke Cake

Cranberry Poke Cake is a delightful dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. Its vibrant flavors and festive appearance make it a crowd-pleaser. Here are some creative ways to serve it to your guests.

Individual Servings

• Serve in small glass cups for a fun, layered presentation.
• Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream and a few fresh cranberries.

With Ice Cream

• Pair slices of Cranberry Poke Cake with vanilla or mint ice cream for a delicious contrast.
• Drizzle with chocolate syrup or caramel sauce for an extra treat.

Garnished with Fresh Fruits

• Add slices of orange or pomegranate seeds on top to enhance flavor and color.
• A sprinkle of nuts can add texture and crunch.

As Part of a Dessert Platter

• Include Cranberry Poke Cake as one element on a holiday dessert platter.
• Complement it with cookies, brownies, and festive candies.

How to Perfect Cranberry Poke Cake

To achieve the best results with your Cranberry Poke Cake, follow these simple tips that will elevate your baking experience.

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow eggs and water to reach room temperature before mixing. This ensures better blending of the cake batter.
• Poke Holes Carefully: When poking holes in the cake, space them evenly to allow the cranberry mixture to seep thoroughly into each section.
• Cool Before Topping: Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the whipped topping. This prevents melting and ensures a beautiful finish.
• Add Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding orange zest or almond extract to the cake mix for an added flavor twist.
• Chill Before Serving: Refrigerating the cake for at least two hours enhances its flavor and allows it to set perfectly.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Poke Cake

Cranberry Poke Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that can complement its sweet-tart flavors. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside.

1. Roasted Turkey: A classic holiday main dish that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Honey Glazed Ham: The savory-sweet profile complements the tangy cranberry layer beautifully.
3. Green Bean Casserole: A creamy side dish that adds richness alongside the refreshing poke cake.
4. Stuffing: Savory stuffing can provide a hearty contrast to the lightness of the dessert.
5. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes add comfort and balance out the meal’s sweetness.
6. Cranberry Sauce: Serve extra cranberry sauce on the side for those who want even more tartness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Cranberry Poke Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time.

• Ignoring the Cooling Time: Allowing the cake to cool completely before poking holes is essential. If you skip this step, the cranberry sauce may not seep in properly, leading to uneven flavor.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and water are at room temperature when mixing the batter. Cold ingredients can affect the cake’s rise and texture, making it less fluffy.

• Overmixing the Batter: When combining the ingredients for your cake, mix just until everything is combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cake instead of a light and airy one.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science, so measure your ingredients carefully. An incorrect amount of water or oil can alter the cake’s moisture level and overall taste.

• Skipping the Refrigeration Step: Refrigerating the cake after adding the cranberry layer is crucial. This allows flavors to meld and ensures that the cranberry layer sets properly for better serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cranberry Poke Cake in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap if you don’t have a container.

Freezing Cranberry Poke Cake

• Wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• You can freeze it for up to 2 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Cranberry Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual pieces for about 15-20 seconds until warm. Be careful not to overheat, as it can melt the whipped topping.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover with a lid for even warming, heating for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Cranberry Poke Cake?

A Cranberry Poke Cake is a moist white cake filled with a tangy cranberry layer that seeps into holes poked across its surface. It’s topped with whipped cream and makes an ideal holiday dessert.

Can I make Cranberry Poke Cake ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this cake up to two days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator after assembling for best results.

What variations can I try with my Cranberry Poke Cake?

You can customize your cake by using different flavored cake mixes or fruit toppings. Consider adding orange zest for extra flavor or substituting cherry pie filling for cranberry sauce!

How do I know when my poke cake is done baking?

Check if your poke cake is done by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with only a few crumbs attached, it’s ready to be removed from the oven.

Final Thoughts

The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is not only festive but also incredibly versatile. Its moist texture combined with tart cranberry flavor creates an irresistible dessert perfect for any holiday gathering. Feel free to customize it with different toppings or flavors; your guests will love it! Try this delightful recipe today!