Description
This Christmas Poke Cake is the perfect festive dessert to elevate your holiday gatherings. With vibrant red and green gelatin soaked into a moist white cake and topped with a fluffy whipped cream finish, it’s both visually stunning and delicious. Easy to make with a store-bought cake mix, this dessert is ideal for any celebration. Add sprinkles, crushed candy canes, and other holiday decorations for extra charm. The ideal sweet treat to make ahead and impress your guests during the Christmas season!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
1 (3 oz) box red gelatin (like strawberry or cherry)
1 (3 oz) box green gelatin (like lime)
2 cups boiling water (divided)
For the Topping:
1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
Optional Decorations:
Red and green sprinkles
Crushed candy canes
Holiday-themed candies (e.g., mini marshmallows, chocolate chips)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare the white cake mix according to package instructions (add eggs, oil, and water). Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan. - Poke the Cake:
Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface, spacing them about 1 inch apart. - Prepare the Gelatin:
In two separate bowls, dissolve each gelatin flavor in 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Carefully pour the red gelatin into half of the holes and the green gelatin into the other half, ensuring the gelatin doesn’t mix. - Chill the Cake:
Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the gelatin to set. - Add the Topping:
Once the gelatin is set, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake. Garnish with red and green sprinkles, crushed candy canes, and any additional holiday-themed candies. - Serve:
Slice and serve chilled. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Flavor Variations: You can switch the gelatin flavors to match your preference or holiday theme, such as orange or blueberry for different festive looks.
Whipped Cream Alternative: Use homemade whipped cream for an extra creamy texture if you prefer over store-bought whipped topping.
Mini Versions: For individual servings, bake the cake in a muffin tin or ramekins and follow the same steps.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12 servings
- Calories: 230 kcal
