This Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe is a delightful and festive treat that will brighten up any holiday gathering. Moist, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this poke cake is perfect for celebrating the season with family and friends. Its unique cranberry layer adds a refreshing twist, making it a standout dessert that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavor: The combination of white cake and cranberry sauce creates a deliciously tart and sweet balance.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip this cake up in no time.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday party or a cozy family dinner, this cake fits right in.
- Beautiful Presentation: Topped with whipped cream and colorful sprinkles, it’s as visually appealing as it is tasty.
- Versatile Dessert: You can easily customize the toppings or use different fruit sauces to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before getting started, gather your tools to make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
- Whisk or electric mixer
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all your ingredients without making a mess.
- Baking pan: The right size baking pan ensures even cooking and makes serving easier.
- Whisk or electric mixer: These tools help achieve the right texture for the cake batter quickly and efficiently.
Ingredients
To create this delightful Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
For the Cake Base
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
For the Cranberry Layer
- 1 can (14 oz) cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/2 cup water (for cranberry layer)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
For the Topping
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Red and green sprinkles, for garnish
How to Make Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil.
- Use a whisk or electric mixer to beat until smooth and well combined.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Create Poke Holes
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven. Let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, use a fork to poke holes throughout the top of the cake.
Step 5: Prepare Cranberry Layer
- In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine cranberry sauce, water, and sugar.
- Stir until heated through and sugar is dissolved; then pour over the poked cake evenly.
Step 6: Finish with Topping
- Allow the cake to cool completely before adding whipped topping.
- Spread whipped topping over the cranberry layer.
- Garnish with red and green sprinkles for that festive touch.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!
Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving. Slice into squares and enjoy this delicious Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake!
How to Serve Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe
This festive cake is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake.
Individual Portions
- Serve slices on festive dessert plates for a personal touch.
- Use clear cups or jars for a layered presentation, showcasing the cranberry filling.
With Fresh Berries
- Add a side of fresh raspberries or blueberries to enhance the tartness.
- Garnish with mint leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Ice Cream Pairing
- Accompany each slice with a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream.
- Drizzle with a touch of fruit syrup for added sweetness and flavor.
Whipped Topping Swirl
- Top each piece with extra whipped topping for creaminess.
- Sprinkle additional red and green sprinkles on top for extra festive flair.
How to Perfect Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe
Achieving the perfect poke cake requires attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cake stands out.
- Use fresh ingredients: Always check expiration dates on your baking supplies to ensure maximum freshness.
- Follow baking instructions: Stick closely to the cake mix instructions for optimal texture and flavor.
- Poke evenly: Use a skewer or fork to poke holes evenly throughout the cake; this allows the cranberry mixture to soak in properly.
- Chill before serving: Let the cake chill in the fridge for at least two hours after assembling; this helps flavors meld together and enhances the taste.
- Add more layers: Consider layering with additional flavors like lemon zest or orange juice in the cranberry layer for a unique twist.
Best Side Dishes for Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake can enhance your holiday meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this delightful dessert.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and garlic, these veggies provide a savory contrast to the sweet cake.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes add comfort, balancing the tartness of the cake.
- Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans with toasted almonds offer crunch and freshness alongside rich flavors.
- Cranberry Sauce: A side of homemade cranberry sauce can enhance flavors and ties into your poke cake’s theme.
- Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots glazed with honey add vibrancy and sweetness that pairs well with dessert.
- Stuffing: Traditional stuffing made with herbs adds depth and heartiness to your holiday spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Special Occasion cranberry poke cake, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to steer clear of them:
- Skipping the Cooling Step: Allowing your cake to cool completely before poking holes is crucial. If you skip this, the cake may break apart or become soggy.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Precision in measuring ingredients is essential for the best results. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you have the right amounts.
- Choosing the Wrong Cake Mix: Always opt for a quality white cake mix to achieve the desired flavor and texture. A low-quality mix could lead to disappointing results.
- Ignoring Garnish Options: While sprinkles are fun, ignoring other garnish options can limit your cake’s appeal. Consider adding fresh cranberries or mint leaves for added color and taste.
- Underestimating Chill Time: The poke cake needs time in the refrigerator for flavors to meld. Don’t rush this step; aim for at least 2 hours of chilling.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Containers: Use an airtight container or cover with plastic wrap to keep it fresh.
Freezing Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe
- Duration: The poke cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
Reheating Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-45 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet on low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about preparing the Special Occasion cranberry poke cake.
What is a poke cake?
A poke cake is a moist dessert where holes are made in the baked cake and filled with various liquids, creating a flavorful treat.
Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
Yes! Homemade cranberry sauce can add a fresh flavor twist. Just make sure it has a similar consistency to store-bought versions.
How can I customize my Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe?
You can customize it by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or trying different fruit toppings such as orange zest or pomegranate seeds.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! The Special Occasion cranberry poke cake is great for meal prep as it stays delicious when stored properly in the fridge or freezer.
Final Thoughts
This Special Occasion cranberry poke cake recipe is not only festive but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings and can be customized with your favorite toppings or flavors. Give it a try, and enjoy this delightful dessert with family and friends!
Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake
This Special Occasion Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe is a festive and delicious dessert that will bring joy to your holiday celebrations. With its moist white cake base complemented by a tangy cranberry layer, this poke cake is not only easy to prepare but also visually stunning. Topped with whipped cream and colorful sprinkles, it’s the perfect sweet treat to share with family and friends during the holiday season.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 people 1x
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 can (14 oz) cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
- 1/2 cup water (for cranberry layer)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Red and green sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil until smooth.
- Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan and bake for about 30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes, then poke holes throughout the top with a fork.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, mix cranberry sauce, water, and sugar until warmed through; pour this mixture over the poked cake.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before spreading whipped topping on top.
- Garnish with red and green sprinkles, chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (95g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider mixing in some citrus zest into your cranberry layer. You can substitute whipped topping with homemade whipped cream if preferred.