Red Velvet Poke Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Red Velvet Poke Cake is easy to prepare and delivers reliable results, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers. The comforting flavor of red velvet paired with chocolate pudding provides a well-balanced treat that everyone will love. It’s an excellent choice for everyday dessert or special gatherings, offering practical value without requiring extensive prep work.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Hand mixer or whisk
• Toothpick or skewer
• Spoon for filling holes
• Rubber spatula

Ingredients

• 1 box red velvet cake mix (adds moisture and structure)
• 3 large eggs (provides structure and richness)
• 1 cup water (keeps the cake moist)
• 1 cup vegetable oil (adds moisture and richness)
• 1 cup chocolate pudding mix (creates a creamy filling)
• 2 cups milk (thins pudding for pouring)
• 1 tub Cool Whip (light and creamy topping)
• Oreo cookies for topping (adds crunch and flavor)

How to Make Red Velvet Poke Cake

Step 1. Start by preheating your oven according to the instructions on the red velvet cake mix box. Prepare your 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or lining it with parchment paper. This ensures the cake comes out easily after baking and makes for easier cleanup. Mixing up the batter at this point will be the next step, so get ready to whip it together.

Step 2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps. The batter should be thick yet pourable. Once fully mixed, you’re ready to transfer it to the baking dish.

Step 3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the surface with a spatula. Carefully place the dish in the preheated oven and bake according to the time specified on the cake mix package. Keep an eye on the cake, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.

Step 4. After baking, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This resting time helps the cake settle and makes it easier to poke holes. Once the cake has cooled slightly, use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes evenly across the surface, about an inch apart. Make sure to poke deep enough to allow for the pudding filling but be careful not to tear the cake apart.

Step 5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chocolate pudding mix and the milk until it thickens. This process takes just a few minutes. Once it reaches a pudding-like consistency, pour it evenly over the surface of the poked cake. The pudding will seep into the holes, infusing the cake with rich chocolate flavor. Allow it to set for about 5 minutes.

Step 6. After letting the pudding set in the cake, take the Cool Whip and spread it evenly on top of the pudding layer. This light, airy topping is what makes the cake truly indulgent. Use a spatula to create a smooth, even layer, covering the entire surface.

Step 7. For an added touch, crush Oreo cookies into small pieces and sprinkle them generously on top of the Cool Whip layer. The crunchy texture of the Oreos will create a delightful contrast to the moist cake and creamy pudding. Once you’ve added the topping, your cake is ready to chill.

Step 8. Refrigerate the finished cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This chilling period allows the flavors to meld and the cake to become even more moist. When ready to serve, simply slice into squares and enjoy this delicious treat with family and friends.

Serving Suggestions

Red Velvet Poke Cake makes for a delightful dessert at family gatherings or special occasions. It can also be enjoyed as a sweet treat after dinner or for special breakfasts. Consider serving it with a side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence. Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for a quick snack throughout the week, ensuring you always have a comforting sweet option available.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Ensure to mix your batter thoroughly for an even texture.
• Try to poke holes while the cake is still warm, as this helps the pudding seep in better.
• Chill the cake longer if possible; it will deepen the flavor and enhance the texture.
• Don’t skip the Oreos; they add a wonderful crunch that complements the softness of the cake.
• Use a rubber spatula to spread the Cool Whip smoothly across the cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake texture. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
2. Not Letting the Cake Cool: Skipping the cooling step can cause the pudding to melt into the batter instead of sitting on top. Allow it to cool for proper layering.
3. Poking Holes Too Shallow: If holes are not deep enough, the pudding won’t fully soak into the cake. Aim for at least halfway down for best absorption.
4. Using Warm Pudding: Adding hot pudding can cause the Cool Whip to melt. Ensure the pudding is completely cooled before spreading it.
5. Skipping the Chill Time: Not refrigerating can result in a messy slice with a runny filling. Chilling solidifies the layers and enhances the flavor.
6. Failing to Crush the Oreos: Whole cookies won’t distribute well on top. Crushing them into smaller pieces provides better coverage and a crunchier texture.

Variations & Substitutions

For a chocolate twist, you can replace the red velvet cake mix with chocolate cake mix for a double-chocolate experience. For a lighter option, consider using sugar-free pudding and Cool Whip. You can also add a layer of fresh fruit like strawberries or raspberries for added flavor and color. For an extra layer of decadence, try drizzling chocolate syrup over the top.

Storage & Reheating

Store the Red Velvet Poke Cake in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Be sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from absorbing any odors. This cake does not freeze well due to the Cool Whip, which may change texture when thawed. For best enjoyment, serve chilled directly from the refrigerator without reheating.

Nutrition Information

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the Red Velvet Poke Cake a day in advance. It actually benefits from sitting in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to meld and the cake to become even more moist.

How long does it last in the fridge?

This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to keep it fresh and to avoid any absorption of other fridge odors.

Can I freeze this recipe?

Freezing is not recommended for this cake because the Cool Whip topping may not hold up well when thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh from the refrigerator.

What can I substitute for one ingredient?

If you can’t find chocolate pudding mix, you might use vanilla pudding mix for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that this will change the overall flavor of the dessert.

Why didn’t my recipe turn out as expected?

Common issues could include not measuring ingredients accurately, over or undermixing the batter, or not properly cooling the cake before adding the pudding. Following the instructions carefully should yield delightful results.

Final Thoughts

Making this Red Velvet Poke Cake is not just about baking; it’s about enjoying a delightful and comforting dessert that brings people together. It’s simple to create and allows for personal touches, making each cake a little unique. Whether you’re serving it at a celebration or enjoying it quietly at home, this cake is sure to bring joy. Simply follow the steps with care, and it will turn out beautifully every time.