Introduction

This Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is a festive and moist dessert perfect for holiday gatherings. It combines a light white cake with a flavorful cranberry layer and creamy whipped topping decorated with seasonal sprinkles. Easy to make and sure to impress your guests!

A close-up view of a square slice of layered cake sits on a white plate with a white marbled texture underneath. The bottom layer is a soft, light yellow cake with a moist and fluffy texture. Above this, there is a thick layer of bright red and dark purple mixed berries that look juicy and slightly mashed, blending into the cake below. On top of this, whole shiny red and dark purple berries are scattered, some sprinkled with fine white powdered sugar. Small green mint leaves add a fresh touch, nestled among the berries. A few loose berries and some powdered sugar rest on the plate around the slice. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 box (15.25 oz) white cake mix
3 large eggs
1 cup water
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 can (14 oz) cranberry sauce (whole berry or jellied)
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Red and green sprinkles, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil. Mix according to package instructions until well combined.
Step 2: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: In a small saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, 1/2 cup water, and granulated sugar. Heat over medium heat until the mixture is well blended and the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Step 4: Once the cake has cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to poke holes all over the surface about 1 inch apart.
Step 5: Pour the warm cranberry mixture evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let the cake cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: In a medium bowl, mix the whipped topping with the vanilla extract until well combined. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
Step 7: Decorate the top of the cake with red and green sprinkles for a festive touch.
Step 8: Slice the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the refreshing cranberry flavor and moist cake!

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a teaspoon of orange zest to the cranberry sauce mixture before heating.
Use fresh cranberries and make your own sauce if you prefer a less sweet and more tart topping.
Substitute the whipped topping with freshly whipped cream for a lighter texture.
Add chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, to the whipped topping for added crunch.

Storage

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it chilled to maintain the whipped topping’s texture. Reheat is not recommended, as the whipped topping may lose its consistency. Serve chilled for the best taste.

How to Serve

The image shows a single slice of cake on a white plate, sitting on a white marbled surface. The cake has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a light yellow sponge cake with a soft and airy texture, the middle layer is a thick, bright red berry jam with a slightly chunky texture, and the top layer is made up of whole shiny red and dark purple berries, dusted with white powdered sugar and decorated with small green mint leaves. Some loose berries lie on the plate around the slice, and the whole scene appears bright and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes, you can use yellow or butter cake mix if you prefer. The white cake mix provides a neutral base that complements the cranberry layer well.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely. Prepare the cake a day in advance and let it chill overnight after adding the cranberry layer and whipped topping. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.