Name: Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 4 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box red velvet cake mix; Ingredients needed to make the cake: eggs, oil and water; 2 (3.4 ounce) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix; 4 cups milk; 8 ounce tub whipped topping; Green gel food coloring; Red and white Christmas sprinkles

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Introduction to Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Ah, Christmas time! The air is filled with laughter, holiday tunes, and the irresistible aroma of delicious treats. One dessert that captivates hearts—and taste buds—is the Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake. This vibrant treat is not only a feast for the eyes but also a quick solution for those busy holiday gatherings. I know how chaotic the season can get, and this cake is perfect for impressing family and friends without too much fuss. Get ready to make memories as you indulge in this festive delight that’s as joyful as the season itself.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is the star of any festive gathering! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a lifesaver for busy moms and professionals alike. With its luscious layers of creamy pudding and sprightly red hue, it’s a showstopper that never fails to impress. Each bite melts in your mouth, combining rich flavors with a delightful texture meant for celebration. Trust me; your holiday table deserves this delicious treat!

Ingredients for Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Let’s gather our festive ingredients! First up is the red velvet cake mix, which serves as the base for our cake, providing that delightful red hue and rich flavor. You’ll also need eggs, oil, and water to bring the cake mix to life and ensure it rises perfectly.

Next, we’ll use instant vanilla pudding mix along with milk to whip up a dreamy filling that seeps into those holes, amplifying the cake’s moistness. The cake is topped off with a dollop of whipped topping that adds a light and creamy finish.

For the holiday touch, green gel food coloring helps create a festive appearance, while red and white Christmas sprinkles give it that merry sparkle. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider using a gluten-free cake mix or homemade pudding for a personalized twist. Exact quantities can be found below for your convenience!

1 box red velvet cake mix
Ingredients needed to make the cake: eggs, oil and water

2 (3.4 ounce) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
4 cups milk
8 ounce tub whipped topping
Green gel food coloring
Red and white Christmas sprinkles

How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Step 1: Baking the Cake

Preheat and Prepare

First things first, let’s get that oven nice and toasty. Preheat it to 350°F. Next, grab your red velvet cake mix and follow the instructions on the box. Combine the required eggs, oil, and water in a mixing bowl. Blend it all together until smooth. Pour the mixture into a greased baking pan, then pop it into the oven. Bake until it’s perfectly spongy, usually around 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick comes out clean. The smell alone will transport you into holiday bliss!

Step 2: Poking the Holes

Create Space for the Pudding

Once your cake has baked, resist the urge to dive in right away. Let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use a wooden utensil handle or even a large straw to poke holes in the cake. Make them about an inch apart. This step is crucial! Those holes create pockets for the creamy pudding that will elevate the flavors. Trust me; this is where the magic happens!

Step 3: Making the Pudding

Combining Ingredients

Now, let’s whip up that luscious pudding! In a large bowl, whisk together the two boxes of instant vanilla pudding mix with 4 cups of milk. Mix until it’s silky smooth with no lumps. This step usually takes just a couple of minutes. Feel free to channel a bit of festive flair while you whisk—it makes everything more fun! Once you achieve that perfect consistency, let it sit for a minute to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Pouring the Pudding

Filling Those Holes

Bring out your cooled cake and grab that luscious pudding. Carefully pour it over the cake, aiming to fill those holes you made. Be sure to use a spoon to help guide the pudding down into all those delicious pockets. If you spill a little on the sides, no worries! It’s all part of the charm. Give it a gentle nudge with the back of the spoon to ensure it settles nicely.

Step 5: Letting it Chill

The Importance of Chilling

Cover your cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Chilling is more than just a wait; it’s vital for flavor and texture. The pudding will solidify a bit, making your cake extra moist and delightful. This is a perfect time for a quick holiday break or to sip a warm cup of cocoa. Trust me, those two hours will feel like a gift of anticipation!

Step 6: Preparing the Topping

Coloring the Whipped Topping

Now for the fun part! In a medium bowl, stir together an 8-ounce tub of whipped topping and a few drops of green gel food coloring. Feel free to mix until you reach that festive shade of green. This is also where you can unleash your inner artist! If you want a more vibrant hue, add more food coloring. Get creative—this topping is your canvas!

Step 7: Final Topping and Serving

Spreading and Adding Sprinkles

It’s finally time to unveil your masterpiece! Once your cake is chilled and set, take it out of the fridge and spread the fluffy green whipped topping evenly over the surface. Now for the finishing touch! Sprinkle generously with red and white Christmas sprinkles. Not only do they add festive flair, but they also grab attention! Slice, serve, and watch your loved ones’ faces light up as they savor this holiday delight.

Tips for Success

Ensure your cake is completely cooled before adding pudding for the best results.
Use a toothpick to check the cake’s doneness; it should come out clean.

Customize the color of your whipped topping based on your festive theme.
For an extra touch, consider adding a layer of crushed cookies or nuts on top.
Let the cake chill overnight for enhanced flavors—if you can wait that long!

Equipment Needed

For this delightful Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake, you’ll need:

A mixing bowl for combining your cake mix and pudding.
A whisk for blending the pudding until smooth.
A wooden utensil handle or straw for poking holes in the cake.

A spatula for spreading the whipped topping evenly.
A 9×13 inch baking pan or dish for baking and serving.

Variations

Let’s get creative! There are so many ways to put your spin on this festive Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake. Consider the following variations:

Swap the red velvet cake mix for gluten-free cake mix to cater to gluten sensitivities.

Use chocolate pudding instead of vanilla for a richer flavor explosion!
Add a swirl of cream cheese frosting atop the whipped topping for a tangy twist.
Top with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a fruity accent.

For an indulgent touch, sprinkle with finely crushed peppermint candies for a seasonal crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Make your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake the star of the show with some delightful accompaniments:

Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced apple cider for a cozy touch.

Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience.
Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Presentation matters—use festive plates or platters to enhance the cake’s charm.

FAQs about Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Can I make this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake ahead of time? Absolutely! This cake tastes even better when chilled overnight. Just be sure to cover it well with plastic wrap to maintain freshness.

What can I use instead of green gel food coloring? If you’re looking for a natural alternative, try using matcha powder or even a bit of pureed spinach for that festive green hue.

Can I substitute the pudding mix? Yes! You can switch out the vanilla pudding for chocolate or even a seasonal flavor like eggnog pudding for a unique twist!

How do I store leftovers? Any leftover cake should be stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly. It should stay delicious for up to four days!

Is the Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake suitable for vegetarians? Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it perfect for family gatherings!

Final Thoughts

The Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration on a plate. As you gather around the table with family and friends, this cake becomes the centerpiece, sparking joy and creating lasting memories. I invite you to take a moment amidst the holiday hustle to whip up this festive delight. Let each slice remind you of the special moments shared over laughter, warmth, and delicious treats. Together, let’s make this holiday season extraordinary, one cake at a time—because love, laughter, and cake are the perfect trifecta of joy!