Description
This festive Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is a delightful dessert combining a moist vanilla cake with a sweet and tangy cranberry filling, topped with creamy whipped topping and garnished with fresh cranberries and mint leaves. Perfect for holiday gatherings, it offers a refreshing balance of flavors and a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake
- 1 box vanilla or white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water)
Cranberry Filling
- 1 can (14 oz) whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
Topping and Garnish
- 2 cups whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- Fresh cranberries (optional)
- Mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
- Bake the Cake: Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the cake mix box, including adding eggs, oil, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake as directed, usually at 350°F for about 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.
- Prepare Cranberry Filling: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce, sugar, and water. Stir continuously until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens slightly, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
- Poke the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes evenly all over the cooled cake. Pour the cooled cranberry mixture over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes evenly and infuse the cake with flavor.
- Top and Decorate: Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cranberry-soaked cake. Garnish with fresh cranberries and mint leaves if desired for a festive touch. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set before serving.
Notes
- You can use either homemade or store-bought whipped topping based on your preference.
- For extra tartness, use fresh cranberries in the filling along with the cranberry sauce.
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before poking and pouring the cranberry mixture to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Refrigeration is important for the best texture and flavor.
