Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

Introduction

As the holiday season approaches, my family and I begin to embrace the spirit of Christmas with festive decorations, cozy gatherings, and of course, delicious treats. This Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake quickly became a household favorite after our first bite. The combination of moist white cake, tangy cranberry sauce, and fluffy whipped topping creates a perfect balance of flavors that feels both celebratory and comforting. Every time I serve it, the cheerful colors and refreshing taste bring smiles to everyone’s faces, making it a go-to dessert for our holiday celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 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
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

For the Whipped Topping:

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Red and green sprinkles, for garnish

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Mix according to package instructions until well combined. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cranberry Layer: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, water, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is well blended and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
3. Poke the Cake: Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes all over the surface of the cake, about 1 inch apart.
4. Add the Cranberry Layer: Pour the warm cranberry mixture evenly over the poked cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Let the cake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Prepare the Whipped Topping: In a medium bowl, mix the whipped topping with the vanilla extract until well combined. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
6. Garnish: Decorate the top of the cake with red and green sprinkles for a festive touch.
7. Serve: Slice the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the refreshing cranberry flavor and moist cake!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12-15 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 220 Kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Chill Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Chilled: Ensure the cake is refrigerated for at least 2 hours for optimal flavor.
• Garnish: Add red and green sprinkles just before serving for a festive look.
• Plating: Serve in squares on dessert plates.
• Pairing: Consider pairing with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat.
• Leftovers: Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for a refreshing dessert the next day.

Additional Tips

1. Make It Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld even more.
2. Customize the Flavor: Add a splash of orange juice or zest to the cranberry layer for an extra citrus kick.
3. Experiment with Toppings: Consider adding chopped nuts or a drizzle of white chocolate over the whipped topping for added texture.
4. Use Fresh Cranberries: If you prefer a fresher taste, you can make your own cranberry sauce with fresh cranberries and sugar.
5. Check for Doneness: Always check the cake for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean from the center.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Cranberry Poke Cake: Use chocolate cake mix instead of white for a richer flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake mix for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Fruit Layer Variations: Substitute the cranberry sauce with raspberry or cherry pie filling for a different fruity experience.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free cake mix to accommodate gluten sensitivities.
• Vegan Version: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based whipped topping.

Serving Suggestions

• Festive Brunch: This cake makes a lovely addition to any holiday brunch spread.
• Dessert Table: Perfect for potlucks or dessert tables at holiday parties.
• Gift Idea: Package a slice in a decorative container as a thoughtful homemade gift.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: The cake can be frozen without the whipped topping for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Storage: Store the assembled cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different cake mix?

• Yes, feel free to use any flavor cake mix you prefer.

1. Is it necessary to refrigerate the cake?

• Yes, refrigerating helps the flavors meld and keeps the whipped topping fresh.

1. Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?

• Absolutely! Homemade cranberry sauce adds a fresh touch.

1. How do I make the cake more festive?

• Use festive sprinkles, edible glitter, or a mix of berries for decoration.

1. Can I make this gluten-free?

• Yes, simply use a gluten-free cake mix.

1. How long can I keep leftovers?

• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

1. Can I make it a day ahead?

• Yes, making it a day ahead allows the flavors to develop even more.

1. What if I don’t have Cool Whip?

• You can use any brand of whipped topping or make your own from scratch.

1. Is this cake suitable for kids?

• Yes, the flavors are mild and sweet, making it kid-friendly.

1. Can I use a different type of sprinkles?

• Definitely! Use any sprinkles that match your holiday theme.

Conclusion

The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is not only a delightful dessert but also a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table. Its vibrant colors and refreshing flavors make it a crowd-pleaser that brings joy to festive gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or attending a potluck, this cake is sure to impress and leave everyone asking for the recipe. Give it a try this season, and watch as it becomes a cherished tradition in your own home!

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