Introduction
Indulge in the festive joy of the holiday season with this delightful Red Velvet Poke Cake. This dessert combines the rich, velvety texture of red velvet cake with the sweetness of condensed milk and layers of creamy frosting. Topped with colorful M&Ms and festive sprinkles, it’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Perfect for gatherings, this cake is easy to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
1 (16-ounce) red velvet box cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box to prepare cake mix)
1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
1 (16-ounce) container cream cheese frosting
1 (8-ounce) container Cool Whip, thawed
Green gel food coloring (optional)
½ cup red & green M&Ms
½ cup white chocolate chips
Christmas sprinkles
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
30 minutes
Total Time
1 hour 50 minutes
Yield
12 servings
Instructions
1. Prepare and bake the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions for a 9×13-inch pan.
2. Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely.
3. Using a straw or the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cake, spacing them about an inch apart.
4. Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
5. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
6. In a bowl, mix a few drops of green gel food coloring into the Cool Whip until the desired shade is achieved.
7. Spread the green-tinted Cool Whip over the frosting layer.
8. Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour, or until ready to serve.
9. Before serving, sprinkle the red & green M&Ms, white chocolate chips, and Christmas sprinkles over the top.
10. Slice into squares and enjoy!
Notes
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Prepare and bake the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions for a 9×13-inch pan.
Step 2: Cool the Cake
Once baked, allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 3: Poke Holes
Using a straw or the back of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cake, spacing them about an inch apart.
Step 4: Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes for added moisture and flavor.
Step 5: Frosting Layer
Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake, covering the cake completely.
Step 6: Prepare Cool Whip
In a bowl, mix a few drops of green gel food coloring into the Cool Whip until the desired shade of green is achieved.
Step 7: Top with Cool Whip
Spread the green-tinted Cool Whip over the cream cheese frosting layer, smoothing it out evenly.
Step 8: Refrigerate the Cake
Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour, or until you are ready to serve it to allow the layers to set.
Step 9: Add Toppings
Before serving, sprinkle the red & green M&Ms, white chocolate chips, and Christmas sprinkles over the top for a festive touch.
Step 10: Slice and Serve
Slice into squares and enjoy the delicious cake with your friends and family!
Notes
Storage
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
Serving Tip
For clean slices, dip your knife in hot water and wipe it dry between cuts to achieve neat, tidy pieces.
Cook techniques
Baking the Cake
Follow the instructions on the red velvet box cake mix for accurate baking times and temperatures to ensure a moist and fluffy cake.
Poking Holes
Utilize a straw or the back of a wooden spoon to poke holes in the cooled cake. This allows the sweetened condensed milk to seep in and add moisture.
Even Frosting Application
When spreading the cream cheese frosting, use an offset spatula or a butter knife for a smooth and even layer on top of the cake.
Coloring the Cool Whip
Add a few drops of green gel food coloring to the thawed Cool Whip, mixing until you reach your desired shade. This adds a festive touch to your cake.
Refrigerating the Cake
Ensure the cake is refrigerated for at least 1 hour before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the cake to set properly.
Garnishing
Prior to serving, generously sprinkle red & green M&Ms, white chocolate chips, and Christmas sprinkles on top for added texture and visual appeal.
FAQ
Can I use a different cake mix flavor?
Yes, you can substitute the red velvet cake mix with another flavor, but keep in mind that it will change the overall taste and appearance of the cake.
How long can I store the leftover cake?
Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze the cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake, but it’s best to do so without the cream cheese frosting and Cool Whip. Wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of sweetened condensed milk?
You can substitute sweetened condensed milk with a homemade mixture of evaporated milk and sugar, but it may alter the final texture slightly.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cake a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add the toppings right before serving for best results.
Conclusion
This festive red velvet cake, enhanced with sweetened condensed milk and topped with a cream cheese and Cool Whip layer, is a delightful treat for any holiday gathering. The vibrant colors and festive decorations make it visually appealing, while the mix of flavors ensures it will be a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy this delicious cake as it creates sweet memories during the season!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Peppermint Cake
Swap red velvet for a chocolate cake mix, adding peppermint extract to the cream cheese frosting. Top with crushed peppermint candies for an extra festive touch.
Carrot Cake Delight
Replace the red velvet cake with a carrot cake mix and use vanilla pudding instead of sweetened condensed milk. Top with a classic cream cheese frosting and chopped walnuts.
Chocolate Chip Cookie Layers
Layer the cake with chocolate chip cookie dough baked in a separate pan. Use the same Cool Whip and frosting combination to create indulgent layers, topped with chocolate chips and cookie crumbles.
Vanilla Funfetti Cake
Use a vanilla cake mix with rainbow sprinkles mixed into the batter, and top with whipped cream frosting and colorful sprinkles for a youthful twist.
Pumpkin Spice Cake
Opt for a pumpkin spice cake mix and incorporate a layer of spiced whipped frosting. Add crushed ginger snaps on top for added crunch and seasonal flavor.
