King Cake Poke Cake Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that captures the spirit of Mardi Gras, look no further than this King Cake Poke Cake Recipe. Inspired by the traditional King Cake, this poke cake features vibrant colors, delicious flavors, and a fun presentation that will impress your friends and family. With a moist cake base soaked in sweetened condensed milk and topped with cream and festive sprinkles, this dessert is perfect for celebrations or just a sweet treat at home. Let’s dive into the details of this delectable recipe!

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This King Cake Poke Cake Recipe combines simplicity with tradition. It starts with a standard white cake mix, making it easy to prepare yet still bursting with flavor. The addition of two types of pudding mixes creates a creamy filling that soaks into the cake, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful. The vibrant colors not only make it visually appealing but also delight the palate. This is a dessert that anyone can recreate, regardless of baking experience, and it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering!

Your Shopping Guide

• 1 package white cake mix: The base for our cake, providing a light and fluffy texture.
• Ingredients to prepare the cake mix: Usually includes eggs, water, and oil.
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the cake.
• Bright Green Gel Food Coloring: For the signature green color.
• Purple Gel Food Coloring: Adds that festive Mardi Gras purple.
• Yellow Gel Food Coloring: Completes the traditional King Cake colors.
• 2 1/2 cups condensed milk: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
• 2 cups white chocolate chips: For a creamy topping and rich flavor.
• 3.4 ounces package vanilla pudding mix: Helps create a creamy filling.
• 3.4 ounces package banana pudding mix: Adds a unique flavor twist.
• 4 cups milk: Needed to prepare the puddings.
• 8 ounces container whipped topping: For a fluffy and light topping.
• Green, yellow, and purple sprinkles: For decoration and a festive touch.

Essential Tools for Success

• 9×13 inch baking pan: Perfect for baking the poke cake.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the cake mix and pudding.
• Whisk: For mixing the cake batter and pudding.
• Toothpick or skewer: To poke holes in the cake for soaking.
• Spatula: For spreading the topping evenly.

King Cake Poke Cake Recipe: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, water, oil, and vanilla extract. Mix according to the package instructions until the batter is smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Pudding Mixture

While the cake is cooling, prepare the pudding. In separate bowls, combine the vanilla pudding mix and banana pudding mix with 4 cups of milk. Whisk each until smooth and thickened.

Step 4: Poke the Cake

Once the cake has cooled completely, use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Make sure to poke deep enough for the pudding mixture to soak in, but be gentle to avoid breaking the cake.

Step 5: Soak the Cake

Pour the condensed milk evenly over the poked cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Then, pour the prepared pudding mixture over the top, spreading it out evenly.

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the white chocolate chips. Once melted, let them cool slightly before folding in the whipped topping until smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Decorate the Cake

Spread the whipped topping mixture over the pudding layer. Now, it’s time to add the color! Divide the whipped topping into three bowls. Use the gel food coloring to tint one bowl green, another purple, and the last yellow.

Step 8: Create a Colorful Design

Using a spatula or spoon, dollop the different colored whipped toppings onto the cake in a random pattern. Use a knife or spatula to swirl the colors together slightly, creating a marbled effect. Finally, sprinkle the green, yellow, and purple sprinkles generously over the top.

Step 9: Chill and Serve

Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the cake to set. When ready to serve, slice into squares and enjoy!

If You’re Out Of…

• White cake mix: You can use yellow cake mix as a substitute for a slightly different flavor.
• Condensed milk: Sweetened evaporated milk can be used in a pinch.
• White chocolate chips: You can substitute with semi-sweet chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Whipped topping: Homemade whipped cream is a great alternative if you prefer a less processed option.

Little Things that Matter

When making this King Cake Poke Cake Recipe, remember to let the cake cool completely before adding the puddings and whipped topping. This prevents the toppings from melting. Additionally, using gel food coloring will yield brighter, more vibrant colors compared to liquid food coloring. Don’t skimp on the chilling time; it’s essential for the flavors to come together beautifully!

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This cake is best enjoyed chilled! If you want to freeze the cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and enjoy the next day. Note that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but it will still be delicious!

Questions People Ask

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes! This cake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.

What if I can’t find banana pudding mix?

If banana pudding mix isn’t available, you can substitute it with another flavor like butterscotch or simply use an additional vanilla pudding mix for a more uniform flavor.

Can I use fresh fruit as a topping?

Absolutely! Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries would add a delightful freshness to the cake.

Is it necessary to use food coloring?

While food coloring is traditional for a King Cake, you can skip it if you prefer a more natural look. The cake will still taste fantastic!

Hungry for More?

If this King Cake Poke Cake Recipe has whetted your appetite for more delightful desserts, be sure to explore the endless possibilities of cakes and treats. From classic favorites to innovative twists, there’s always something new to try in the realm of baking. Happy baking, and may your culinary adventures be as colorful as this festive cake!