Celebrate the holiday season with a stunning Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake. This dessert features the rich taste of red velvet combined with a creamy filling and festive toppings. It’s a visually appealing and delicious treat that’s perfect for Christmas gatherings, bringing cheer and sweetness to your festive celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)

For the Filling:

• 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
• 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
• 1 ½ cups cold milk

For the Topping:

• 8 oz whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• Red and green holiday sprinkles
• Crushed candy canes (optional)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

• Bake Cake: Follow the instructions on the red velvet cake mix box. Preheat your oven and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare and bake the cake accordingly.
• Cool Slightly: Allow the cake to cool for about 10-15 minutes after baking.

Step 2: Make the Poke Holes

• Poke Holes: Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the cake, spacing them about an inch apart.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

• Mix Filling: In a bowl, whisk the instant vanilla pudding mix with cold milk until smooth. Allow it to thicken for a few minutes.
• Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Stir in the sweetened condensed milk until smooth and fully integrated.

Step 4: Pour the Filling

• Fill Holes: Evenly pour the filling over the cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. Let the cake sit for at least 30 minutes to fully absorb the filling.

Step 5: Add the Topping

• Top with Whipped Topping: Spread the whipped topping evenly across the cake.
• Decorate: Garnish with red and green holiday sprinkles and add crushed candy canes for a festive look.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

• Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to let the flavors meld together.
• Serve: Slice into squares and serve chilled.

Variations

• Chocolate Ganache: Drizzle chocolate ganache over the whipped topping for a richer flavor.
• Peppermint Flavor: Mix peppermint extract into the whipped topping for a minty twist.

Cooking Note

Ensure the cake is slightly cooled before poking holes to prevent it from falling apart.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs beautifully with hot chocolate or a spicy glass of mulled wine, enhancing the holiday spirit.

Tips

• Even Holes: Ensure the holes are evenly spaced so the filling distributes uniformly.
• Chill Time: Allow sufficient chilling time for the best texture and flavor integration.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: Varies by cake mix instructions
• Total Time: Approximately 2 hours (including chilling)

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Sugar: High (due to sweetened condensed milk and toppings)

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake a day ahead? A: Yes, preparing the cake a day ahead allows the flavors to blend beautifully and makes it even more delicious.

Q: How can I store leftovers? A: Keep any leftovers in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is not just a dessert; it’s a festive centerpiece that’s as delicious as it is beautiful. It’s perfect for anyone looking to add a special touch to their holiday meals and is guaranteed to impress your guests with its delightful combination of flavors and textures.