Instructions to Make the Cake
1. Bake the Cake
To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.
In a large bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Follow the package instructions for mixing, which typically involves beating the ingredients until smooth and well incorporated. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake the cake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
2. Prepare the Cranberry Layer
While the cake is cooling, it’s time to prepare the flavorful cranberry layer. In a small saucepan, combine 1 can of cranberry sauce (you can use whole berry or jellied, depending on your preference), 1/2 cup water, and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently until the sugar dissolves, and the sauce is smooth and well blended.
Once the cranberry mixture is done, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly.
3. Poke the Cake
Here’s where the magic of a poke cake happens! Once the cake has cooled a bit, take the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw and poke holes all over the surface of the cake. Space the holes about 1 inch apart for even distribution of the cranberry filling.
4. Add the Cranberry Layer
Now comes the fun part—pour the warm cranberry mixture evenly over the poked cake. Make sure the cranberry sauce seeps into the holes you’ve created. This will infuse the cake with that delicious, tangy cranberry flavor.
Let the cake cool completely on the counter, then transfer it to the refrigerator to chill for at least 2 hours. This step is crucial, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the cranberry filling to set into the cake.
5. Prepare the Whipped Topping
While the cake is chilling, you can prepare the whipped topping. In a medium bowl, combine 1 container (8 oz) of whipped topping with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.
Once the cake has chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface of the cake. The whipped topping adds a light and creamy layer that perfectly complements the richness of the cranberry and the sweetness of the cake.
6. Garnish the Cake
To add a festive touch, sprinkle red and green sprinkles over the top of the whipped topping. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the Christmas theme of the dessert.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is now ready to serve! Slice it into squares and enjoy this delightful, refreshing dessert. The cake is best served chilled, so keep it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to serve.
Tips for the Perfect Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake
- Use Whole Berry Cranberry Sauce: While jellied cranberry sauce works well, using whole berry sauce adds texture and bursts of cranberry flavor throughout the cake.
- Don’t Skip the Chilling Time: Allowing the cake to chill for at least 2 hours is important to let the cranberry layer fully set and seep into the cake. This step ensures the best flavor and texture.
- Add Fresh Cranberries: For an even more festive touch, you can garnish the cake with a few fresh cranberries on top of the whipped cream. This adds a pop of color and enhances the presentation.
- Experiment with Flavors: If you want to add a twist to the recipe, consider adding a bit of orange zest to the cranberry layer or sprinkling some crushed graham crackers over the whipped topping for extra texture.
How to Make Ahead and Store
One of the best things about this Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is that it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for holiday planning.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can make the cake and add the cranberry layer a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator overnight, then add the whipped topping and sprinkles just before serving.
- Storing Leftovers: Any leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped topping might lose a bit of its fluffiness after a couple of days, but the flavors will remain just as delicious.
- Freezing the Cake: If you want to make this cake well in advance, you can bake and poke the cake, add the cranberry layer, then freeze it (without the whipped topping) for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and add the whipped topping and sprinkles before serving.
Customizing Your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake
- Swap the Cake Mix: If you prefer a more homemade approach, you can replace the boxed cake mix with your favorite white or vanilla cake recipe.
- Different Toppings: While whipped topping is traditional, you could also use cream cheese frosting for a richer, creamier texture.
- Add Nuts: For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the whipped topping.
Final Thoughts
The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is the perfect dessert to celebrate the holiday season. It’s festive, easy to make, and brings together a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. With its beautiful presentation and delicious taste, this cake will quickly become a holiday tradition in your home. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or bringing it to a holiday potluck, this cake is sure to impress!
So this Christmas, gather your loved ones, enjoy a slice of this delightful cake, and savor the memories of the season. Happy Holidays!
