Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake

Introduction:

Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake is a delightful autumn dessert that combines the warm, spiced flavors of pumpkin with a creamy vanilla pudding filling and a fluffy whipped topping. Perfect for fall gatherings, this cake is easy to make and looks as festive as it tastes.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box spice cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box) or homemade spice cake using your favorite recipe
• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

For the Filling:

• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups cold milk
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

For the Topping:

• 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• ½ cup caramel sauce (optional)
• Pumpkin-shaped candies (for garnish)
• Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat and Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven according to the spice cake mix package instructions.
   • Prepare the spice cake mix as directed on the package. Stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice.
   • Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and bake according to package directions or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Poke and Fill:
   • After baking, let the cake cool slightly. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake.
3. Prepare the Pudding Mixture:
   • In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and cinnamon until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes.
   • Pour the pudding mixture over the cake, spreading it evenly to fill the holes.
4. Chill:
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set and the flavors to meld.
5. Add the Topping:
   • Once the cake is chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the entire surface.
   • Drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped topping if desired, and garnish with pumpkin-shaped candies and crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs.
6. Serve:
   • Slice and serve this creamy, spiced cake for a delicious autumn treat!

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 3 hours (including chilling)
• Servings: 12

Variations

• Flavor Variations: Swap out the pumpkin puree for butternut squash puree for a different twist.
• Spice Mix: Use a store-bought pumpkin pie spice blend or mix your own with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves.
• Healthier Option: Use a reduced-fat whipped topping and low-fat milk in the pudding mix for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Cover the cake tightly and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 5 days.
• Reheating: This cake is served cold or at room temperature, so reheating is not necessary.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
   • Yes, you can use a different flavor of cake mix, but the spice cake complements the pumpkin and spices best.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   • Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
3. What if I don’t have pumpkin pie spice?
   • You can use a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves as a substitute.
4. Can I use fresh pumpkin puree instead of canned?
   • Yes, just make sure the puree is well-drained and not too watery.
5. Can I freeze this cake?
   • Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the pudding and whipped topping may change.
6. What can I use instead of whipped topping?
   • You can use homemade whipped cream or cream cheese frosting as an alternative.
7. Is this cake suitable for a gluten-free diet?
   • Use a gluten-free spice cake mix to make it gluten-free.
8. Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the cake?
   • Yes, you can fold in chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the cake batter before baking.
9. What can I use instead of caramel sauce?
   • Try using chocolate sauce or a fruit compote for a different topping.
10. Can I use a different flavor of pudding mix?
    • Vanilla is the traditional choice, but you can experiment with butterscotch or caramel pudding mix for different flavors.

Conclusion

Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake is an irresistible autumn dessert that combines the comforting flavors of pumpkin and spice with a creamy pudding filling and a light, airy topping. Easy to prepare and perfect for fall celebrations, this cake is sure to become a favorite at your holiday table. Enjoy this delightful treat with family and friends!

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