There is something truly magical about the holidays, and nothing captures that spirit quite like the vibrant and indulgent Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe. This festive dessert combines the rich, velvety texture of a classic red velvet cake with a luscious filling that seeps into every poke and a creamy, dreamy frosting that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. It’s an irresistibly moist cake bursting with flavor and festivity, guaranteed to brighten any holiday table and bring smiles all around.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe is easier than you might think. Each component plays a distinct role—from the tender crumb of the cake to the sweet, creamy layers that sneak into every bite, making this dessert truly unforgettable.
- Red velvet cake mix: The foundation of this cake providing the vibrant red color and signature chocolatey flavor.
- Eggs, oil, and water: As specified on the cake mix box for perfect batter consistency and moisture.
- Sweetened condensed milk: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that soaks beautifully into the cake.
- White chocolate chips: Melted for a silky smooth layer that balances the tang of the red velvet cake.
- Cream cheese: Softened to creamy perfection, for that classic tangy frosting base.
- Whipped topping (Cool Whip): Folded into the frosting to add lightness and a fluffy finish.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and rounds out the flavor of the frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens the cream cheese mixture perfectly without graininess.
- Festive sprinkles or holiday decorations: Optional, but they add that joyful pop of color and seasonal charm.
How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven according to the directions on your red velvet cake mix box. Prepare the batter as instructed, combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. Pour it evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. This cake is your luscious, vibrant base, so make sure to let it cool to just warm before moving on.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, gently poke holes evenly all over the warm cake. This step might seem simple, but it’s essential for creating pockets where the next layers get absorbed, infusing every bite with creamy, dreamy goodness.
Step 3: Prepare the Condensed Milk and White Chocolate Mixture
In a bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk with melted white chocolate chips. Stir until smooth and perfectly blended. Pour this heavenly mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into every hole. Let the cake cool for about 30 minutes to absorb all that luscious sweetness.
Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat softened cream cheese until it turns silky smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until combined. Then, carefully fold in the thawed whipped topping to keep the frosting light and fluffy, with just the right amount of tang and sweetness.
Step 5: Frost and Decorate
Once your cake has cooled and absorbed the condensed milk mixture, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly on top. For the finishing touch, add festive sprinkles or holiday decorations to bring that Christmas cheer to the surface. Chill the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to let everything set beautifully.
How to Serve Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Bright sprinkles, edible glitter, or tiny candy canes can elevate the festive vibe of the Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe. Fresh mint leaves or a dusting of powdered sugar also add a refined touch, making your dessert as eye-catching as it is delicious.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with light accompaniments like freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream. For a holiday party, consider serving it alongside warm mulled cider or a spiced eggnog to complement the creamy, chocolaty flavors of the cake.
Creative Ways to Present
For a unique twist, serve the Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe in clear glass trifle bowls to showcase the beautiful layers. You can also cut it into festive shapes using cookie cutters or stack individual mini poke cakes for personalized servings that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe, store leftovers covered tightly in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the moistness and freshness of the cake and frosting for up to 4 days, so you can savor it anytime you crave a sweet holiday treat.
Freezing
If you want to save your poke cake for later, freeze it wrapped securely in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Keep it frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to retain the cake’s signature texture and flavor.
Reheating
For a softly warmed experience, let portions sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before eating. If you prefer it warm, microwave individual servings for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the frosting intact and perfectly creamy.
FAQs
Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a mix?
Absolutely! While using a boxed red velvet mix keeps this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe quick and simple, you can use your favorite homemade red velvet cake recipe instead. Just adjust baking times accordingly.
What can I substitute for the whipped topping?
If you want to avoid whipped topping, you can substitute with homemade whipped cream. Just make sure it’s light and fluffy before folding it into the cream cheese frosting to maintain that perfect texture.
How do I prevent the cake from drying out?
The sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate mixture soaks deeply into the cake holes, locking in moisture. Be sure not to skip the poking step and pour the mixture evenly over the cake for maximum moistness.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix or recipe and ensure all other ingredients, such as whipped topping and cream cheese, are gluten-free. This way you can enjoy the Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe without compromise.
How far in advance can I prepare this cake?
You can assemble the cake entirely up to a day ahead. Just keep it refrigerated and add festive decorations before serving to keep the flair fresh and bright.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe is hands-down one of my favorite holiday desserts to share with friends and family. It’s joyful, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to make, making your festive gatherings even more delicious and memorable. I can’t wait for you to try it and create beautiful holiday memories around this stunning cake!
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Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is a festive and indulgent dessert perfect for holiday celebrations. Featuring a moist red velvet cake infused with a luscious blend of sweetened condensed milk and melted white chocolate, topped with a fluffy cream cheese frosting and decorated with festive sprinkles, this poke cake is both visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus eggs, oil, and water as listed on the box)
Filling
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
Frosting
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (Cool Whip), thawed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Decoration
- Festive sprinkles or holiday decorations (optional)
Instructions
- Bake the Cake: Preheat your oven as directed on the cake mix box and prepare the red velvet cake batter according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, typically about 25-30 minutes.
- Cool Slightly: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes to allow it to set but still be warm enough for poking.
- Poke the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon, gently poke holes evenly all over the surface of the cake, making sure to reach near the bottom.
- Prepare Filling and Pour: In a bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and melted white chocolate until smooth and well blended. Pour this mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes. Allow the cake to cool further for 30 minutes so the filling absorbs completely.
- Make the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and mix until well combined. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping to achieve a light and fluffy frosting.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake, covering the entire surface.
- Decorate and Chill: Sprinkle festive sprinkles or holiday decorations atop the frosting as desired. Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the frosting to set.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is warm but not hot when poking holes to prevent tearing.
- Melt the white chocolate gently, either in a microwave in short bursts or using a double boiler, to avoid burning.
- The poke holes allow the sweetened condensed milk and white chocolate glaze to soak in, making the cake extra moist and flavorful.
- You can substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream for a fresher frosting option.
- This cake is best served chilled but can be brought to room temperature before serving for softer texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
