Introduction
The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that encapsulates the essence of the holiday season. With its vibrant layers of cranberry and a rich, creamy topping, this cake is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s a treat for the taste buds. Perfect for festive gatherings, this recipe brings together a unique blend of flavors that will impress your friends and family, making it an essential addition to your holiday dessert table.
Imagine slicing into a moist vanilla cake that has been infused with tangy cranberry sauce. Each bite is a perfect combination of sweetness and tartness, amplified by the lightness of whipped topping. This cake is not only beautiful but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy young professionals who love homemade food but may be short on time.
As you gather around the table with loved ones, the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake serves as more than just a dessert; it’s a centerpiece that invites conversation and joy. This recipe promises to create lasting memories, as people share stories and laughter over slices of this festive cake. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and instructions to create this delicious holiday treat that will surely be a hit at your next gathering!
Key Ingredients
The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is built on a foundation of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create a deliciously festive dessert.
Vanilla Cake Mix (1 box): This serves as the base of the cake, providing a light and fluffy texture that complements the tartness of the cranberries. It’s a convenient choice for busy bakers who want to save time without sacrificing flavor.
Water (1 cup): Essential for hydrating the cake mix, water helps to create a perfect batter consistency. Using room temperature water can enhance the cake’s rise.
Large Eggs (3): Eggs add moisture and richness, contributing to the cake’s structure and helping it rise during baking. They also enhance the overall flavor.
Cranberry Sauce (1 can): This ingredient infuses the cake with a delightful cranberry flavor and provides a juicy element that seeps into the holes poked in the cooled cake, ensuring every bite is bursting with taste.
Sweetened Condensed Milk (1 cup): Adding a creamy sweetness, this ingredient helps to bind the flavors together while enhancing the cake’s moistness. It’s a key player in making the poke cake irresistibly rich.
Whipped Topping (8 ounces): This light and airy topping gives the cake a beautiful finish and a creamy texture that balances the tart cranberries perfectly. It’s a quick way to add a frosted appearance without the need for extensive decorating.
Fresh Cranberries (1 cup): These provide a fresh, tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake, making each slice visually appealing and flavorful. Their vibrant color adds a festive touch.
Sugar (1/4 cup): A little sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the cranberries and balances the flavors in the cake. It’s essential for the topping mixture as well.
Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): This ingredient brightens the overall flavor of the cake and complements the cranberries, adding a hint of acidity that enhances the sweetness.
Together, these ingredients create a holiday dessert that is as delightful to eat as it is to share.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe is the perfect blend of flavor, texture, and festive spirit, making it an ideal dessert for holiday gatherings. This cake is not only visually stunning, with its vibrant red cranberries contrasting against the creamy topping, but it also delivers an explosion of flavors that will delight your taste buds.
One of the best parts about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare. The poke cake method allows the sweetened condensed milk and cranberry sauce to soak into the cake, ensuring every slice is moist and flavorful. Plus, the combination of sweet and tart from the cranberries adds a refreshing twist that makes this cake stand out from traditional holiday desserts.
Not to mention, this recipe can be made ahead of time, which is a lifesaver for busy young professionals. Simply prepare it the night before, refrigerate, and serve it chilled for an effortlessly impressive dessert. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or bringing a dish to share, this Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Variations
The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe is wonderfully versatile, allowing you to customize it to suit your taste or occasion. Here are a few delightful variations to consider:
Add a Layer of Flavor
Consider incorporating a layer of orange zest into the cake batter for a citrusy twist. The bright flavor complements the cranberries beautifully and enhances the overall festive feel. You could also experiment by mixing in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and richness.
Different Fruit Options
While cranberries are the star of this recipe, you could swap them out for other fruits. Try using raspberry or strawberry sauce for a different flavor profile. Each alternative brings a unique sweetness and tartness that can elevate your poke cake experience.
Frosting Alternatives
If you’re looking to switch up the whipped topping, consider using cream cheese frosting for a richer flavor. Simply blend an 8-ounce package of cream cheese with some powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla extract for a creamy, tangy topping that pairs perfectly with the cake.
These variations not only keep the traditional spirit of the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake intact but also allow you to personalize it to your liking. Each option is sure to impress your guests and make your holiday gatherings even more special!
Cooking Tips and Notes
When making the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe, a few tips can help ensure it turns out perfectly every time. First, it’s essential to let the cake cool adequately before poking holes into it. This allows the cake to maintain its structure, ensuring that the cranberry sauce and sweetened condensed milk can seep in without causing it to crumble.
Chilling the cake for at least two hours is crucial; it not only enhances the flavors but also allows the cake to set, making it easier to slice. For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake mix—this simple addition can elevate the overall taste and aroma of your dessert.
If you’re short on time, prepare the cake the night before and let it chill overnight. This not only saves you time on the day of your gathering but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Remember, presentation matters too! Garnish with freshly sugared cranberries for a festive touch that will wow your guests and make your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake truly special.
Serving Suggestions
The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe is a delightful treat that can be served in various ways to enhance its appeal at your holiday gatherings. For an elegant presentation, slice the cake into squares and serve on a decorative platter, garnished with fresh mint leaves. This adds a pop of color and freshness that complements the festive theme.
Pairing the cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate the dessert experience. The creamy texture of the ice cream contrasts nicely with the tartness of the cranberries, creating a delicious balance of flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, drizzle a bit of warm caramel sauce over the top before serving for an indulgent touch.
To make it extra special, consider serving the cake alongside a hot beverage like spiced cider or peppermint hot chocolate. This combination not only warms the soul but also enhances the overall holiday spirit. With these serving suggestions, your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake will surely be a hit, leaving guests excited for more!
Time Breakdown
When preparing the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake, understanding the time commitment can help streamline your baking process. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Preparation: 20 minutes – This includes gathering ingredients, mixing the batter, and getting the cake into the oven.
Cooking/Baking: 30 minutes – Baking the cake in a preheated oven ensures it rises and cooks evenly. Keep an eye on it as it bakes!
Total: 2 hours 50 minutes – This includes cooling and chilling time, which is essential for the flavors to meld beautifully.
Efficiency Tip: To save time, consider preparing the cake the night before and letting it chill overnight. This not only enhances the flavor but also allows for a hassle-free serving on the day of your gathering.
Nutritional Facts
Understanding the nutritional profile of the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe can help you enjoy this festive dessert while keeping an eye on your dietary needs. Each serving contains approximately 250 calories, making it a moderate indulgence for holiday gatherings. With 22 grams of sugar and 10 grams of fat, this cake is sweet and satisfying, but it’s worth noting the balance of flavors and textures it provides.
Additionally, the cake offers 3 grams of protein and 1 gram of fiber, which can help contribute to a balanced dessert experience. While enjoying this delightful poke cake, remember that moderation is key, especially during the holiday season!
FAQ based on ‘People Also Ask’
What is a poke cake?
A poke cake is a type of cake where holes are poked into the baked cake, allowing a flavorful filling, such as sweetened condensed milk or fruit sauce, to seep in. This results in a moist and flavorful dessert that is often topped with whipped cream or frosting.
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Absolutely! While the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe calls for vanilla cake mix, you can experiment with other flavors like yellow cake or even chocolate. Just ensure that the flavor complements the cranberries to maintain a delicious balance.
How long does the cake need to chill?
It’s best to chill the cake for at least 2 hours, but letting it sit overnight will enhance the flavors even more. This chilling time allows the filling to set and the cake to absorb the delicious cranberry sauce mixture, resulting in a more flavorful dessert.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, the poke cake can be made up to a day in advance. Prepare it as directed, chill it overnight, and simply add the whipped topping and garnish before serving. This makes it an ideal dessert for busy holiday gatherings.
Conclusion
The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe is not just a dessert; it’s a festive centerpiece that brings joy to any holiday gathering. With its layers of moist cake, tart cranberry flavor, and fluffy whipped topping, this cake captures the essence of the season in every bite. Whether you make it for a family dinner or a holiday party, it’s sure to impress your guests and leave a lasting impression.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without the stress of last-minute baking. Plus, the poke cake method ensures that every slice is packed with flavor, making it a delightful treat for both young and old. So why not bring a slice of holiday cheer to your table? Cook, save, share, and enjoy this delicious Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake with your loved ones!
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Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe
This festive cake is perfect for holiday gatherings, featuring layers of cranberry and creamy frosting.
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 box vanilla cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can cranberry sauce
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 8 ounces whipped topping
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions and bake in a greased 9×13 inch pan.
- Once baked, let it cool for 10 minutes, then poke holes into the cake with a fork.
- In a bowl, mix the cranberry sauce with sweetened condensed milk and pour over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
- Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
- Spread whipped topping over the chilled cake.
- In a small bowl, combine cranberries, sugar, and lemon juice; let sit for 10 minutes.
- Garnish the cake with the cranberry mixture before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the cake mix.
- Chilling the cake overnight enhances the flavors.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg