The Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is a festive treat that combines the rich, velvety flavors of red velvet cake with a delightful creamy topping. Perfect for any holiday gathering, this dessert not only looks stunning with its bright red hues but also invites a burst of flavor with every bite. It’s a showstopper that will leave your guests reaching for seconds.
Why We Love This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake stands out for many reasons. First, it harnesses the classic velvety texture and flavor of red velvet cake, which many adore. The unique poke cake method allows for a moist texture, as the cake absorbs the sweetened condensed milk mixture, resulting in a flavor experience that’s simply irresistible. Additionally, decorating with red and green sprinkles adds a festive touch that brings cheer to any holiday table. Whether you are celebrating with family or hosting a larger gathering, this cake is sure to delight both young and old alike, making it a beloved addition to your holiday traditions.
Ingredients about Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
- 1 box red velvet cake mix
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red and green sprinkles for decoration
How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Directions
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch cake pan to prevent sticking, ensuring your cake releases easily once baked. In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix with water, vegetable oil, and the three large eggs. Mix these ingredients together until you achieve a smooth batter without lumps.
Next, pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake the cake for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once the baking is complete, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan, which is crucial to avoid any melting of your toppings later on.
After your cake is completely cooled, use the back of a wooden spoon or a similar tool to poke holes all over the top. Be generous with the holes, as this step allows the liquid mixture to penetrate the cake, infusing it with flavor.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. The resulting mixture should be smooth and pourable. Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the surface of the poked cake, ensuring it fills the holes you created earlier.
To let the flavors meld together, cover the cake and place it in the refrigerator for at least four hours, although overnight is even better if you can wait! This refrigeration time allows the cake to soak up the delicious mixture, making it ultra moist.
Before you are ready to serve the cake, take it out of the refrigerator. Top it generously with whipped cream to add a light and airy contrast to the rich flavors beneath. Finally, decorate the whipped cream with vibrant red and green sprinkles, which add that essential festive flair. Now your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is ready to impress!
How to Serve Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
Serving your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake can be a fun and creative process. For an elegant touch, slice the cake into squares and place them on individual dessert plates. You can add a sprig of mint or a few fresh berries on the side to elevate the presentation even further.
Another idea is to serve the cake directly from the pan, making it easier for guests to help themselves. If you go this route, be sure to provide serving utensils to scoop out the cake without making a mess.
Pair this delightful dessert with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy elements truly complement the rich flavors of the cake. As you serve, explain to your guests the special ingredients and the fun poke cake concept, inviting them to enjoy the treat’s interactive nature.
Expert Tips: Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
To ensure your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake turns out perfectly, follow these expert tips. First, when mixing the cake batter, make sure not to overmix. A few lumps are acceptable, as overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Always remember the importance of letting your cake cool completely before poking it and adding the cream mixture. If the cake is warm, the mixture will seep through too quickly and may ruin the cake’s structure and flavor absorption.
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only keeps it fresh but also gives the cake extra time to soak up any remaining flavors from the cream mixture.
Also, if you want a little extra flavor, consider adding a splash of almond extract to the cream mixture. This can give your cake a slight twist in taste without overwhelming the classic red velvet profile.
Lastly, as a fun twist, consider adding chocolate chips to the cake batter for an extra layer of flavor. The chocolate will melt into the cake as it bakes, creating a delightful surprise in every bite.
How to Store Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
To store your leftover Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake properly, allow it to first sit at room temperature for a short period if you’ve just made it. However, after serving, place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. This will prevent it from drying out, maintaining its moist texture.
You can safely store the cake in the refrigerator for up to four to five days. The cake actually gets better the longer it sits, as the flavors continue to meld. If you want to extend its life even further, consider freezing the cake. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. You can freeze cakes like this for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Variation of Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
Your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake can be easily altered to fit your taste preferences. For instance, consider mixing in a different flavored cake mix with the red velvet, such as chocolate or vanilla, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
Another option is to incorporate crushed peppermint candies or candy canes into the whipped topping, enhancing the festive feel of the dessert. This addition not only brings a lovely holiday flavor but also an appealing crunch.
If you want a creamier consistency, think about substituting the heavy cream with cream cheese for the topping. This will give the cake a rich, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the red velvet.
For a fun holiday theme, you can also swap out the red and green sprinkles for gold and silver edible glitter or star-shaped confetti to give it a more glamorous look. This can be especially appealing for holiday parties when you want something that sparkles.
FAQ
What is a poke cake?
A poke cake is a type of dessert where holes are poked into the baked cake, allowing a flavorful liquid topping to soak in and create a moist treat.
Why is my Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake dry?
If your poke cake turns out dry, it might not have been soaked long enough with the liquid mixture. Ensure you cover the cake after pouring the mixture and let it rest in the refrigerator for the recommended time.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake is excellent for making ahead of time. In fact, it often tastes better after it sits for a day, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Can I use a different flavor of cake mix for the poke cake?
Yes, you can use other flavors of cake mix if you’re looking for a fun variation. Chocolate or vanilla would work well, and you can customize the toppings accordingly.
How should I store leftover poke cake?
To keep your leftover Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four to five days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.
By following these guidelines, you’ll not only master the art of making a delightful Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake, but you’re also bound to impress anyone who gets the chance to enjoy your creation!
Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box red velvet cake mix Any brand will work.
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 3 large eggs Room temperature for best results.
For the Poke Mixture
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream Or substitute with cream cheese for a tangy flavor.
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Can add almond extract for flavor variation.
For Decoration
- Red and green sprinkles For festive decoration.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, combine red velvet cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
Poking and Adding Mixture
- Use the back of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cooled cake.
- Whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
- Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Serving
- Top the cake with whipped cream and decorate with red and green sprinkles before serving.
- Slice into squares and serve on plates or directly from the pan.
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