Introduction
Get ready to jingle all the way to flavor town with this festive Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake! A delightful combination of sweet and tangy, this red-and-white treat will sleigh your taste buds with every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to be a hit among family and friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
- For the Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- For the Topping:
- 1 box vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup whipped cream
Preparation Time
- Prep Time 20 minutes
- Cook Time 30 minutes
- Total Time 50 minutes
- Yield 12 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch cake pan.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
3. While the cake is baking, mix cranberry sauce, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat until fully combined. Set aside to cool.
4. Once the cake is done, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use a fork to poke holes evenly across the cake.
5. Pour the cranberry sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. Refrigerate to cool completely.
6. For the topping, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until thickened. Fold in the whipped cream gently.
7. Spread the fluffy topping over the chilled cake, then chill again until set. Slice, serve, and let the holiday cheer begin!
Nutritional Information
Each slice is an indulgent treat with approximately:
Calories: 280
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 10g
Get your forks ready and enjoy this heavenly slice of holiday happiness!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch cake pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, oil, and eggs until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Make the Cranberry Sauce
While the cake is baking, mix the cranberry sauce, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan over medium heat until fully combined. Set aside to cool.
Step 5: Poke the Cake
Once the cake is done, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use a fork to poke holes evenly across the cake.
Step 6: Add the Cranberry Sauce
Pour the cranberry sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. Refrigerate to cool completely.
Step 7: Prepare the Topping
For the topping, whisk together the pudding mix and milk until thickened. Fold in the whipped cream gently.
Step 8: Finish the Cake
Spread the fluffy topping over the chilled cake, then chill again until set. Slice, serve, and let the holiday cheer begin!
Notes
Customization Options
Feel free to add extra toppings such as crushed nuts or additional whipped cream for added texture.
Storage Recommendations
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a warm beverage like hot cocoa or spiced cider for a perfect holiday treat.
Cook techniques
Mixing the Cake Batter
Combine the ingredients for the cake in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Make sure not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Baking the Cake
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick. The cake should spring back when lightly touched.
Poking Holes
After the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, use a fork to poke holes evenly across the surface. This will allow the cranberry sauce to seep in, adding flavor.
Making the Cranberry Sauce
Heat the cranberry sauce, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan until fully combined. Allow it to cool slightly before pouring over the cake.
Preparing the Topping
Whisk the pudding mix with milk until thickened, then gently fold in whipped cream to create a light and fluffy topping.
Chilling the Cake
After pouring the cranberry sauce and adding the topping, chill the cake in the refrigerator until set for the best flavor and texture.
FAQ
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce instead of canned?
Yes, homemade cranberry sauce can be used for a more personalized flavor.
How long can I store the cranberry poke cake?
The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I make the cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and add the sauce and topping just before serving.
Is it possible to make a gluten-free version?
Yes, you can substitute the white cake mix with a gluten-free cake mix to make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I add other fruits to the cake?
Certainly! Other fruits like raspberries or strawberries can be mixed with the cranberry sauce for added flavor.
Conclusion
Enjoy this festive Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake at your holiday gatherings or for a cozy treat at home. Its delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors will surely spread holiday cheer!
