Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
If you’re on the lookout for a festive dessert that truly wows with rich color, luscious texture, and dazzling flavor, this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe might just become your new holiday favorite. Imagine a moist, tender red velvet base that soaks up sweetened condensed milk and decadent hot fudge, topped with fluffy whipped cream, white chocolate chips, and festive sprinkles to make every bite feel like a celebration. This cake brings the perfect mix of classic Christmas colors and incredible taste, guaranteeing smiles around the table and requests for seconds during your holiday gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays an essential role in creating that perfect balance of flavor, texture, and holiday cheer in this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe. From the iconic red velvet cake base to the creamy, fudgy drizzle and light whipped topping, everything works together to create a spectacular seasonal treat.
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box): The foundation of the cake, providing that signature vibrant red color and soft, velvety crumb.
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk: Adds moist sweetness and seeps into the cake creating melt-in-your-mouth richness.
- 1 (12 oz) jar hot fudge sauce: For the decadent chocolate punch that perfectly complements the red velvet flavor.
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed: A light, creamy finish that balances the cake’s density and richness.
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips: Adds bursts of creamy sweetness with every bite.
- Sprinkles, for garnish: The festive touch that brings holiday joy and eye-catching color to your dessert.
How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Red Velvet Cake
Start by preparing your red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions. This step sets the stage, delivering that moist, tender cake that’s the heart of this dessert. Once baked, allow it to cool slightly so it’s easier to work with but still warm enough to absorb the next ingredients.
Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, gently poke holes all over the surface of the cake. This technique is what turns an ordinary cake into a poke cake — allowing the sweetened condensed milk to seep deep inside, infusing every forkful with creamy, luscious flavor.
Step 3: Pour on the Sweetened Condensed Milk
Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it fills those holes generously. This step adds a rich sweetness and helps keep the cake incredibly moist.
Step 4: Add the Hot Fudge Sauce
Warm the hot fudge sauce in the microwave for about 30 seconds so it becomes pourable and silky. Pour it evenly over the cake surface, spreading it gently to cover those pockets of sweetened condensed milk and enhance the cake with luscious chocolate flavor.
Step 5: Chill the Cake
Transfer your cake to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 2 hours. This resting period allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully and the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to slice and serving delightfully chilled dessert.
Step 6: Finish with Whipped Topping and Garnishes
Before serving, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake surface. Sprinkle white chocolate chips and your favorite festive sprinkles on top for that perfect holiday sparkle and extra bursts of sweetness that make every bite special.
How to Serve Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
Beyond the white chocolate chips and sprinkles, consider adding crushed candy canes or a dusting of cocoa powder for extra holiday flair. Fresh berries or a sprig of mint can also brighten the appearance and add a refreshing twist alongside the cake’s richness.
Side Dishes
Pair this poke cake with a cup of hot cocoa or a lightly spiced mulled wine to enhance the festive vibe. For something lighter, a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream complements the cake’s texture and flavor beautifully, creating a harmonious balance of warm and cool sensations.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this poke cake in a clear glass baking dish to showcase its layers and colors, or cut it into individual squares and plate with a drizzle of extra fudge on top. For holiday parties, consider placing slices on decorative plates with edible gold dust or edible glitter to make your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe an unforgettable centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe keeps wonderfully stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it chilled helps maintain the moisture and prevents the whipped topping from melting or becoming watery.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake for longer storage by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect from freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve its delicious texture and flavor.
Reheating
This cake is best enjoyed chilled, but if you prefer it warm, remove the whipped topping and gently warm single slices in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Add fresh whipped cream or topping afterward to maintain that light creamy balance.
FAQs
Can I make this cake from scratch instead of using a boxed mix?
Absolutely! If you have your favorite red velvet cake recipe, feel free to use it in place of the mix. Homemade cake can add an extra layer of flavor and personal touch, but the boxed mix keeps this recipe simple and foolproof during busy holidays.
What if I don’t like hot fudge sauce? Can I substitute it?
Definitely! You can swap the hot fudge with caramel sauce, cream cheese frosting, or even a berry compote for a different but equally delicious twist on this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe.
Is it necessary to chill the cake for 2 hours?
Chilling is key because it allows the sweetened condensed milk and fudge to soak in and set properly, enhancing the texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, even one hour of chilling will improve the cake, but two hours or more is best.
Can this cake be made gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free red velvet cake mix or recipe, you can easily adapt this poke cake. Just be sure all additional ingredients, like fudge sauce and whipped topping, are also gluten-free.
What’s the best way to serve this cake at a holiday party?
Cut the cake into small squares for easy serving or individual dessert plates. Adding a festive garnish and pairing with complementary drinks makes this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe the star of your holiday dessert table.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe truly brings the spirit of the season to your table with its bold colors, rich flavors, and easy preparation. It’s a dessert that feels special but won’t keep you in the kitchen all day. Give it a try and watch it quickly become your go-to holiday treat to share with friends and family. Happy baking and happy holidays!
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Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This festive Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is a delightful twist on classic red velvet cake. Moist and flavorful, the cake is baked, then poked with holes so sweetened condensed milk and hot fudge sauce can seep in, creating a rich and indulgent dessert. Topped with whipped topping, white chocolate chips, and colorful sprinkles, it’s the perfect holiday treat to share with family and friends.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, water, and oil)
For the Filling and Topping
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) jar hot fudge sauce
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- Sprinkles, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the cake: Preheat your oven and prepare the red velvet cake batter according to the package instructions. Pour it into a greased baking pan and bake as directed until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and poke holes: Once the cake is baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly all over the surface of the warm cake to create spaces for the filling to soak in.
- Add sweetened condensed milk: Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes you’ve created to infuse the cake with extra moisture and sweetness.
- Apply hot fudge sauce: Warm the hot fudge sauce in the microwave for 30 seconds to make it easier to spread. Pour it evenly over the cake, covering the surface and filling the holes as well.
- Chill the cake: Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to allow the sweetened condensed milk and fudge sauce to soak thoroughly into the cake layers.
- Add toppings and serve: Before serving, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the cake. Sprinkle the white chocolate chips and colorful sprinkles on top to add texture and festive flair.
Notes
- Make sure the cake is still warm when poking holes so the milk can seep in well.
- You can substitute whipped topping with fresh whipped cream for a fresher taste.
- For an extra festive look, use holiday-themed sprinkles.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and consume within 3 days for best freshness.
- If preferred, use homemade red velvet cake batter instead of store-bought mix.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
