Coconut Cream Poke Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is incredibly moist and flavorful thanks to the poke cake method, which infuses the cake with a rich coconut pudding. The combination of coconut extract, pudding, and shredded coconut creates layers of tropical taste. The whipped cream topping adds lightness, making this dessert both indulgent and refreshing. Plus, it’s easy to prepare using a boxed cake mix with simple add-ins for maximum taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake

• 1 box white cake mix
• Water, vegetable oil, and eggs as per package instructions
• 3 teaspoons coconut extract
• ½ cup sweetened coconut flakes

For the Coconut Cream Filling

• 2 (3.4 oz) boxes instant coconut cream pudding
• 3 cups milk

For the Topping

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• ⅓ cup sweetened coconut flakes

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven according to the cake mix package instructions. Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. Prepare Cake Batter: Prepare the white cake mix as directed on the box, substituting water with the same amount and adding coconut extract to the batter. Fold in ½ cup sweetened coconut flakes.
3. Bake Cake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake according to package directions. Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes after baking.
4. Poke the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the warm cake, spacing about 1 inch apart.
5. Prepare Pudding: In a bowl, whisk together instant coconut cream pudding mix and milk until thickened, about 2 minutes.
6. Pour Pudding Over Cake: Slowly pour the pudding over the cake, making sure to fill the holes and cover the entire surface.
7. Chill: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours or until the pudding is set.
8. Make Whipped Topping: Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar until stiff peaks form.
9. Add Topping and Coconut: Spread whipped cream evenly over the chilled cake. Sprinkle with ⅓ cup sweetened coconut flakes.
10. Serve: Slice and enjoy chilled.

Servings and timing

• Makes 12-16 servings
• Preparation time: 20 minutes
• Baking time: 30-35 minutes
• Chilling time: 2+ hours
• Total time: about 3 hours

Variations

• Use almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist (use dairy-free whipped topping).
• Add crushed pineapple to the pudding mixture for extra tropical flavor.
• Toast coconut flakes before adding for a nuttier taste and crunch.
• Substitute vanilla pudding mix with coconut cream for a richer filling.
• Decorate with fresh berries or pineapple chunks for a colorful presentation.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This cake is best served chilled and should not be frozen as the texture may change. No reheating is necessary.

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake instead of boxed cake mix?

Yes, any white or yellow cake recipe works well.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, make it a day in advance to allow flavors to meld and pudding to set perfectly.

Is this cake gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free cake mix and ensure pudding mix is gluten-free.

Can I use coconut extract in the pudding?

The pudding mix already has coconut flavor, but adding a little extra extract enhances it.

How do I prevent the cake from becoming soggy?

Poke holes evenly and pour pudding slowly to avoid oversaturating one area.

Can I use canned coconut milk in the pudding?

No, use instant pudding mix and milk as directed for best texture.

How do I make the whipped cream stable longer?

Add a tablespoon of powdered sugar and whip to stiff peaks.

Can I substitute the whipped cream with frosting?

You can, but whipped cream adds a lighter texture.

Can I add nuts to the topping?

Yes, chopped toasted pecans or almonds complement the flavors well.

How long will the cake stay fresh?

It stays fresh for up to 4 days when refrigerated properly.

Conclusion

Coconut Cream Poke Cake is a decadent, tropical-inspired dessert that’s both easy to make and irresistible. The combination of moist cake, creamy coconut pudding, and light whipped topping makes it a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake will quickly become a favorite in your dessert repertoire.

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