Description
Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
A gift for your taste buds! This poke cake is soft, rich, and full of holiday cheer.
Ingredients:
1 red velvet cake mix
½ cup oil
2 eggs
1 can sweetened condensed milk
1 block cream cheese
Red candy sprinkles
Preparation:
Bake the cake and let it cool slightly.
Poke holes and fill with condensed milk.
Beat cream cheese and frost the cake.
Add candy sprinkles for a festive finish.
#VelvetHolidayGift
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix, oil, and eggs according to the package directions, typically mixing until just combined. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
2. Poke the Holes: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15-20 minutes, until it’s just warm to the touch. Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a similar round object, poke holes all over the top of the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart. Be sure to poke down to the bottom of the pan.
3. Add the Filling: Slowly pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk over the warm cake, aiming to fill the holes. Use a spatula to gently spread the milk and help it seep down. Allow the cake to cool completely to room temperature so the milk fully absorbs.
4. Make the Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the block of softened cream cheese with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Spread this cream cheese layer evenly over the completely cooled cake.
5. Final Decoration: Generously sprinkle red candy sprinkles (and perhaps green ones for extra holiday spirit) over the entire surface of the frosted cake. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1-2 hours before serving to set the frosting and flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cake chilled for the best texture. Pair each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to balance the richness. For an elegant presentation, garnish individual plates with a mint sprig or a dusting of powdered sugar. It makes a perfect centerpiece dessert for Christmas dinner or a festive potluck.
How-to Summary
Bake a red velvet cake from a mix. While still warm, poke holes all over it and pour in a can of sweetened condensed milk. Let it cool completely, then frost with a simple layer of beaten cream cheese. Top with red sprinkles and chill before serving for a moist, festive dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Absolutely. You can bake, poke, and add the condensed milk a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature. Add the cream cheese frosting and sprinkles the day you plan to serve it.
What can I use instead of a wooden spoon handle? The end of a chopstick, the handle of a thin whisk, or even a large straw works perfectly to create the holes.
My condensed milk pooled on top. What did I do wrong? This usually means the cake was too hot when you poured the milk. Ensure the cake is just warm, not piping hot, so it absorbs the liquid properly.
Can I use homemade cream cheese frosting? Yes, a traditional cream cheese frosting (with butter and powdered sugar) will work, but the simplicity of just softened cream cheese offers a tangy contrast that complements the sweet cake beautifully.
How should I store leftovers? Keep the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The condensed milk keeps it incredibly moist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Poking holes when the cake is too hot; it can cause it to crumble. Let it cool slightly first.
- Using cold cream cheese for frosting, which will be lumpy. Always ensure it’s softened to room temperature.
- Adding the frosting before the cake is completely cool, which can cause the cream cheese to melt and become runny.
- Not poking the holes deep enough, preventing the sweetened condensed milk from penetrating to the bottom layers.
Conclusion
This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a festive experience. The combination of rich red velvet, decadent sweetened condensed milk, and tangy cream cheese creates a symphony of textures and flavors that embodies holiday joy. Simple to prepare yet impressive in presentation, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will make your holiday celebrations even sweeter.
