Nothing says Christmas quite like the combination of sweet and tart flavors, and this Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake captures the holiday spirit perfectly. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, attending a holiday potluck, or simply looking to enjoy a festive dessert at home, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (or white cake mix)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (or cranberry sauce, prepared as below)
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 bag (12 oz) fresh cranberries (or use canned cranberry sauce)
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
For the Topping:
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Crushed graham crackers or toffee bits (optional, for garnish)
Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preparing the Cranberry Sauce
If you choose to make your own cranberry sauce (highly recommended for the freshest flavor):
- Combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and water in a small saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat and let the sauce cool to room temperature. For convenience, canned cranberry sauce can be used instead.
2. Baking the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the cake batter as per the instructions on the box. Mix together the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven.
3. Poking and Soaking the Cake
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. Make sure the holes are deep but don’t go all the way through.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let the cake rest for about 30 minutes to absorb the milk fully.
4. Adding the Cranberry Sauce
- Once the cake has absorbed the sweetened condensed milk, spread the cooled cranberry sauce (or canned sauce) evenly over the top.
- Ensure the entire surface is covered for the best flavor.
5. Making the Creamy Topping
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping, cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
- Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and fluffy.
- Spread the topping evenly over the cranberry layer on the cake.
6. Chilling and Garnishing
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or until well-chilled and set.
- Before serving, garnish with crushed graham crackers, toffee bits, or extra cranberries if desired.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes! While yellow or white cake mix is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with other flavors such as vanilla or even a spice cake mix for a unique twist.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely. In fact, this cake tastes even better when made a day in advance. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it a great make-ahead dessert for holiday gatherings.
How do I store the cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, the cake can be frozen for up to 3 months (though the texture of the whipped topping may slightly change).
What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?
If you’re looking for a substitute, try using evaporated milk with an additional 1/4 cup of sugar mixed in, or a homemade condensed milk alternative.
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes! Frozen cranberries work just as well as fresh ones in this recipe. Be sure to thaw them slightly before making the cranberry sauce.
Conclusion
Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it the perfect dessert for your holiday celebrations. The moist cake, infused with sweetened condensed milk and topped with tart cranberries and creamy whipped topping, is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With its festive appearance and irresistible taste, this cake is destined to become a holiday favorite.
Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the joy of the season with every bite. Happy holidays!