Looking for a dish that wows your guests without stressing you out? This Red Velvet Poke Cake is the ultimate winter holiday treat.
It is bright, festive, and incredibly easy to make from scratch. You will love how the sweet milk soaks into the cake. It makes every single bite perfectly moist and rich.
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This recipe is a total game-changer for busy holiday hosts. It uses a simple box mix to save you precious time. The sweetened condensed milk adds a creamy texture that everyone loves.
It is the perfect dessert for your next winter potluck. You can make it the night before your big event. This stress-free dessert stays fresh and delicious in the fridge.
Simple Method
Making this cake is very straightforward and fun. You simply bake the cake and poke small holes across the top. Then, you pour the sweet milk over the warm cake surface.
Even if you are a beginner, you can do this easily. The frosting is a simple mix of cream cheese and butter. It creates a light and fluffy finish that looks professional.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Most of these items are likely already in your pantry. Using a mix makes this very budget-friendly for families.
- 1 box (15.25 oz) red velvet cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Step-by-Step
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Prepare and bake the red velvet cake mix according to package directions using the eggs, oil, and water.
- Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes.
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the entire surface of the cake at 1-inch intervals.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk slowly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the surface of the cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set before serving.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this cake chilled for the best flavor and texture. The cool cream cheese frosting pairs perfectly with the rich cake. It looks beautiful when sliced into clean, bright squares.
You can serve it with a hot cup of coffee. It also goes great with a glass of cold milk. For a holiday party, set it on a festive platter.
Keep It Fresh
This cake must be stored in the refrigerator because of the frosting. Cover the pan tightly with plastic wrap or a lid. It will stay fresh for up to five days.
You can also freeze individual slices for a quick treat later. Just thaw them in the fridge before you want to eat. This makes it a great make-ahead dessert option.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t skip the two-hour chilling time in the fridge.
- Avoid poking the holes all the way to the bottom.
- Use a wooden spoon handle for the perfect hole size.
- Ensure your cream cheese is very soft before mixing.
- Wipe your knife between slices for very clean cuts.
- For Christmas, add festive green sprinkles on top of the frosting.
- Pour the milk while the cake is still slightly warm.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Add mini chocolate chips to the cake batter before baking.
- Swap the vanilla extract for almond extract for new flavor.
- Top the frosting with crushed pecans for a nice crunch.
- Use a chocolate cake mix for a double-chocolate version.
Common Questions
Can I make this cake a day ahead?
Yes, this cake actually tastes better the next day. The milk has more time to soak into the cake. It is perfect for holiday meal prep.
What if I don’t have a wooden spoon?
You can use a large straw or a thick skewer. The goal is to make holes for the milk. Just ensure they are evenly spaced across the cake.
Will kids like this cake?
Absolutely, kids love the bright color and sweet flavor. It is a very family-friendly dessert for any occasion. They might even want to help poke the holes!
I hope this cozy Red Velvet Poke Cake brings joy to your winter table. Give it a try and watch it disappear at your next party. Happy holiday baking!
— Lidia
Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 1 box (15.25 oz) red velvet cake mix
- 3 large egg s
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup wate r
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- Prepare and bake the red velvet cake mix according to package directions using the eggs, oil, and water.
- Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes.
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the entire surface of the cake at 1-inch intervals.
- Pour the sweetened condensed milk slowly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- In a medium bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until the frosting is light and fluffy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the surface of the cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set before serving.
