Easter Poke Cake Recipe – Colorful & Easy Spring Dessert

Easter is one of those magical holidays where everything just feels bright, cheerful, and full of life. From pastel decorations to family gatherings filled with delicious food, there’s something truly special about this time of year. And what better way to celebrate than with a dessert that perfectly matches the joyful vibe of Easter? Enter the Easter Poke Cake – a colorful, moist, and creamy dessert that is not only stunning to look at but also an absolute delight to eat.

This Easter Poke Cake is the perfect treat to bring to your family’s holiday gathering or to whip up for a fun weekend baking project. The cake itself is a soft, fluffy white cake infused with swirls of beautiful pastel colors that create a tie-dye effect when sliced. And if that’s not enough to get you excited, it’s then soaked with a creamy white chocolate pudding, making each bite incredibly moist and decadent. To finish it off, you’ve got a luscious layer of homemade whipped cream that’s smooth, airy, and lightly sweetened.

What’s great about this recipe is how simple it is to make, even for those who aren’t seasoned bakers. Using a boxed cake mix as the base cuts down on preparation time, while the pudding and whipped cream add that homemade, comforting touch. Plus, it’s highly customizable. You can switch up the colors, add different flavors, or even decorate the top with festive Easter sprinkles or candy eggs.

Whether you’re making this for an Easter brunch, a family dinner, or just because you’re craving something sweet and fun, this Easter Poke Cake is sure to be a hit. And the best part? It’s so easy to make that you might find yourself whipping it up more than just once a year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons why this Easter Poke Cake deserves a spot on your dessert table. Here’s why you’re going to fall in love with it:

• Incredibly Easy to Make: With the help of a boxed cake mix, this recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. You’ll have this cake ready to chill in the fridge before you know it.
• Visually Stunning: The colorful pastel swirls created by the food coloring make this cake look like a beautiful Easter egg. It’s the kind of dessert that looks almost too pretty to eat – almost.
• Perfectly Moist and Creamy: Thanks to the white chocolate pudding filling, this cake is irresistibly moist and creamy with every forkful.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out the pudding flavor, use different colors, or even experiment with fun toppings to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the bright, playful appearance of this cake, and the rich, satisfying flavor will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

This cake truly feels like a celebration in every bite. The combination of fluffy cake, creamy pudding, and smooth whipped topping creates a delightful experience that everyone will enjoy.

Health Benefits

Now, let’s be honest – this Easter Poke Cake is a decadent dessert meant for enjoyment, not necessarily health. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t some positive aspects to appreciate:

• Whipped Cream Instead of Frosting: By making your own whipped cream, you’re opting for a lighter, airier topping compared to traditional buttercream. This helps reduce the overall sugar and fat content.
• Portion Control: Since this cake is rich and creamy, a smaller piece is usually satisfying, which helps keep portions in check.
• Milk Content: The white chocolate pudding and whipped cream provide a decent amount of calcium, which is essential for healthy bones and teeth.
• Customizable Ingredients: If you want to make this dessert a little healthier, you can use sugar-free pudding mix or low-fat milk to cut down on calories and sugar.
• Mental Health Benefits: Let’s not overlook the joy factor. Indulging in a beautiful, delicious dessert can be a wonderful way to celebrate special moments and create lasting memories with loved ones.

While this cake is definitely a treat, there’s nothing wrong with enjoying it in moderation and appreciating the happiness it brings to your holiday table.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

Preparation Time

• Preparation: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling & Chilling Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Servings

• Serves: 12-15 slices

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fats: 15g
• Sugar: 35g
• Calcium: 6% of the Daily Value (DV)

Please note that nutritional values may vary depending on specific brands and ingredient choices.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this festive Easter Poke Cake:

The Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the package, usually eggs, oil, and water)
• Food Coloring: Pink, blue, green, and yellow

The Pudding Layer:

• 2 boxes (3.3 oz each) instant white chocolate pudding mix
• 3 ½ cups cold milk

The Whipped Cream Topping:

• 2 cups heavy cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Decoration (Optional):

• Easter-themed sprinkles or candy eggs

These ingredients are super easy to find at your local grocery store. You can even switch things up by trying different pudding flavors or using your favorite type of sprinkles.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (or as directed on your cake mix package).
   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
   • Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions.
2. Divide and Color the Batter:
   • Divide the prepared cake batter evenly into four separate bowls.
   • Add a few drops of pink food coloring to one bowl, blue to another, green to the third, and yellow to the last.
   • Stir each bowl until the colors are evenly distributed.
3. Create the Swirl Pattern:
   • Spoon dollops of each colored batter randomly into the prepared baking dish.
   • Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the colors together. Be careful not to overmix; you want the colors to stay vibrant and distinct.

4. Bake the Cake:
   • Bake the cake according to the package instructions (usually around 30 minutes) or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
5. Poke Holes in the Cake:
   • Once slightly cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon or a thick straw to poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about an inch apart.
6. Prepare the Pudding Layer:
   • In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the instant white chocolate pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened (about 2 minutes).
   • Pour the pudding mixture evenly over the entire cake, making sure to fill the holes.
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 30 minutes to allow the pudding to set.
7. Make the Whipped Cream Topping:
   • In a large bowl, beat the heavy cream and vanilla extract with an electric mixer until soft peaks form.
   • Add powdered sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form (about 5-6 minutes).
8. Top the Cake:
   • Spread the whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake.
   • Decorate with Easter-themed sprinkles or candy eggs if desired.
9. Chill & Serve:
   • Chill the cake for at least an additional hour before serving.
   • Slice, serve, and enjoy your beautiful, colorful Easter Poke Cake!

How to Serve

This Easter Poke Cake is a showstopper on its own, but here are some fun ways to serve it:

• Festive Dessert Platter: Slice the cake and arrange the pieces on a decorative tray with pastel-themed decor around it.
• Add Fresh Fruit: Top each slice with fresh berries like strawberries or raspberries for a burst of freshness.
• Sweet Parfait Cups: Cut the cake into cubes and layer with whipped cream and fruit in clear dessert cups for a fancy, individual serving option.

This cake makes for an impressive centerpiece at any Easter party or family gathering. The colorful swirls and creamy layers are sure to catch everyone’s attention!

Pairing Suggestions

The Easter Poke Cake is rich and creamy, so pairing it with something light and refreshing works best. Here are some ideas:

• Drinks: Serve with a glass of cold milk, fresh lemonade, or fruity mocktails like strawberry mint spritzers.
• Side Desserts: Try pairing it with lemon bars, sugar cookies, or fruit salad to complement the cake’s sweetness.
• Coffee: A cup of hot coffee or a creamy latte also pairs beautifully with the cake’s fluffy and moist texture.

Whether served with a simple drink or a whole spread of treats, this cake is sure to be a highlight of your Easter celebration.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

Storage

• Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days when properly refrigerated.

Freezing

• This cake can be frozen if you want to make it ahead of time.
• Cut the cake into slices and wrap each piece individually with plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen cake slices in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Avoid microwaving, as it will affect the texture of the pudding and whipped cream.

Proper storage ensures your cake remains as delicious and creamy as the day you made it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Easter Poke Cake comes out perfect every time, avoid these common pitfalls:

• Overmixing the Batter: Swirl the colors just enough to create a marbled effect. Overmixing will result in muddy, blended colors.
• Not Letting the Cake Cool: Poke holes only after the cake has slightly cooled. If it’s too hot, the cake may crumble.
• Skipping the Refrigeration Step: Chilling the cake after adding the pudding is crucial for it to properly set.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Use real heavy cream for the topping; alternatives will not whip properly.
• Too Much Food Coloring: Start with a few drops and add more if needed. Overdoing it can make the cake overly bright and artificial-looking.

By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll avoid any disappointments and end up with a beautiful, delicious dessert.

Pro Tips

Want to make sure your Easter Poke Cake is absolutely perfect? Try these expert tips:

• Use Gel Food Coloring: Gel colors are more vibrant and require less to achieve rich pastel hues.
• Chill Your Mixing Bowl and Whisk: For the whipped cream, chilling your tools helps the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better.
• Make It Ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it a day in advance.
• Customize the Pudding Flavor: Try vanilla, coconut, or even strawberry pudding for a fun twist.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: For extra texture, sprinkle crushed cookies or chopped nuts over the whipped cream.

These simple tips can make a huge difference in your cake’s appearance and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use homemade cake batter instead of boxed mix?
Yes, you absolutely can! Just use your favorite white cake recipe and follow the same steps for coloring and baking.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure your pudding mix is gluten-free as well.

What if I don’t have white chocolate pudding?
You can substitute it with vanilla pudding or any other flavor you prefer.

Can I use store-bought whipped topping instead of homemade whipped cream?
Yes, you can. However, homemade whipped cream provides a richer and fresher taste.

How far in advance can I make this cake?
You can make it up to 24 hours in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze the whole cake instead of slices?
It’s better to freeze individual slices for better texture and easier serving.

Conclusion & Call to Action

This Easter Poke Cake is more than just a dessert – it’s a cheerful, creamy, and colorful celebration that’s sure to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. Whether you’re making it for a special holiday meal or just because you’re craving something fun and delicious, this cake is guaranteed to impress.

The simplicity of the recipe, combined with its stunning appearance, makes it a perfect choice for all skill levels. And the best part? You can customize it to suit your taste and creativity. So go ahead, give it a try, and see how quickly it becomes a family favorite.

I can’t wait to see how your Easter Poke Cake turns out! Be sure to leave a comment and let me know how much you loved it. If you’re feeling extra proud, snap a photo and share it on social media – your beautiful creation deserves to be shown off!

Easter Poke Cake

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• Author: Julianne Carter
• Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling)
• Yield: 12-15 slices 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

This colorful and creamy Easter Poke Cake is the perfect festive dessert for your holiday celebration. Made with a simple white cake mix, vibrant food coloring, white chocolate pudding, and homemade whipped cream, this cake is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will adore.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Cake:

• 1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix (plus package ingredients: eggs, oil, water)

• Food Coloring: Pink, blue, green, yellow

For the Pudding Layer:

• 2 boxes (3.3 oz each) instant white chocolate pudding mix

• 3 ½ cups cold milk

For the Whipped Cream Topping:

• 2 cups heavy cream

• ¼ cup powdered sugar

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Decoration (Optional):

• Easter-themed sprinkles or candy eggs

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Instructions

• Prepare the Cake Batter: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Prepare cake mix according to package instructions.
• Divide and Color Batter: Divide batter into four bowls and color each with pink, blue, green, and yellow food coloring.
• Swirl the Colors: Drop spoonfuls of colored batter into the baking dish and gently swirl with a toothpick.
• Bake: Bake according to package instructions (about 30 minutes). Cool for 10 minutes.
• Poke Holes: Use a wooden spoon handle or thick straw to poke holes all over the cake.
• Make Pudding Layer: Whisk together pudding mix and milk. Pour over cake and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
• Make Whipped Cream Topping: Beat heavy cream and vanilla until soft peaks form. Add powdered sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
• Top the Cake: Spread whipped cream over chilled cake and add sprinkles or candy eggs if desired.
• Chill & Serve: Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving.

Notes

• For more vibrant colors, use gel food coloring.
• Cake can be made a day in advance and kept refrigerated.
• To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free cake mix.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes (includes chilling)
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American