Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 69 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake is a delightful autumn dessert featuring a moist spice cake infused with pumpkin puree and warm pumpkin pie spice. After baking, holes are poked into the cake and filled with creamy vanilla cinnamon pudding, then topped with whipped topping, caramel drizzle, and festive pumpkin-shaped candies and crushed graham crackers for a perfect fall treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Spice 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

Pudding Filling

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

Topping and Garnish

  • 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)


Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the spice cake mix package instructions. Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box or with your homemade recipe. Stir in the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to infuse warm autumn flavors.
  2. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake according to package directions or recipe instructions until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
  3. Poke the Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool slightly but remain warm. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly all over the surface of the cake, creating perfect pockets for the pudding filling.
  4. Prepare the Pudding Filling: In a bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, cold milk, and cinnamon until the mixture thickens. Pour this pudding evenly over the cake, making sure it fills all the holes for maximum flavor and moisture infusion.
  5. Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to fully set and soak into the cake for a luscious texture.
  6. Add the Topping: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake, creating a smooth, creamy layer.
  7. Garnish: Optionally drizzle caramel sauce over the whipped topping, then decorate with pumpkin-shaped candies and a sprinkle of crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs to resemble a festive pumpkin patch.
  8. Serve: Slice the chilled cake into servings and enjoy this delightful fall-inspired dessert.

Notes

  • You can substitute homemade spice cake for the boxed mix if preferred.
  • For a stronger pumpkin flavor, increase pumpkin puree up to 1¼ cups.
  • Ensure the pudding mixture is fully thickened before pouring over the cake for best results.
  • Chilling the cake is crucial for the pudding to set properly and for easy slicing.
  • Caramel sauce is optional but adds a nice sweetness and contrast to the spices.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American