As the holiday season approaches, the kitchen becomes my favorite gathering spot, filled with warmth and the scent of baking goodies. That’s when I whip up this vibrant Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake, designed to evoke the cheerful spirit of the festivities. Picture a fluffy white cake soaked in tangy homemade cranberry sauce and topped with a light vanilla whipped cream—this dessert is not only a showstopper but also a breeze to prepare. It’s perfect for busy hosts looking for a sweet centerpiece that wows guests without taking hours to make. Plus, it’s a vegetarian delight that’s sure to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. So, are you ready to transform your holiday gatherings with this delectable creation?
Why is This Cake a Must-Bake?
Festive Flavor Explosion: The marriage of tart cranberries and sweet whipped cream creates a delightful harmony that captures the essence of the season.
Simplicity at Its Finest: With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, this poke cake is perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Make Ahead Option: Prepare the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake up to 24 hours in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the festivities with family and friends.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This cake not only looks stunning but also tantalizes taste buds, making it the ultimate centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
Versatile Variations: Feeling adventurous? Swap cranberries for strawberries or try a flavorful peppermint topping to mix things up!
Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Ingredients
• Get ready to bake something magical!
For the Cake
• White Cake Mix – Serves as the fluffy base; can substitute with yellow or vanilla cake mix.
• Eggs – Essential for binding; ensure they’re at room temperature for better mixing.
• Butter – Adds moisture and richness; using unsalted butter gives you better control over saltiness.
For the Cranberry Sauce
• Fresh Cranberries – Provide tang and vibrant color; alternatively, opt for canned whole-berry cranberry sauce for an easy shortcut.
• Sugar – Balances the tartness of the cranberries; feel free to adjust based on your sweetness preference.
For the Whipped Cream Topping
• Heavy Cream – Key for fluffy whipped topping; remember to chill everything before whipping for best results.
• Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor; always use pure vanilla extract for the richest taste.
This Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is sure to create delightful memories during the holiday season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake
Step 1: Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions, typically combining it with eggs, butter, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare Cranberry Sauce
While your cake cools, prepare the homemade cranberry sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine fresh cranberries and sugar. Stir frequently until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10–15 minutes. Once completed, remove from heat and allow the sauce to cool for a few minutes until it reaches a warm temperature that won’t break the cake.
Step 3: Poke Holes
After the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake, about one inch apart. Make sure to probe deep enough, but not completely through the cake. This step is essential for the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake, as it allows the cranberry sauce to seep in and flavor every bite.
Step 4: Add Sauce
Pour the warm cranberry sauce evenly over the surface of the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. For optimal absorption, gently spread it out with a spatula to ensure every hole is filled. Allow the cake to absorb the sauce for about 20 minutes at room temperature, which helps meld the flavors beautifully and gives the cake that festive hue.
Step 5: Make Whipped Cream
While the cake is soaking up the cranberry sauce, prepare the whipped cream. In a chilled mixing bowl, pour in the heavy cream and beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed. Add vanilla extract and sugar to taste—continue whipping until stiff peaks form, typically about 3–5 minutes. The chilled tools and cream will help achieve a perfect fluffy texture.
Step 6: Top the Cake
Once the whipped cream is ready, spread it generously over the cranberry-topped cake using a spatula. Make beautiful swirls and peaks for a festive presentation. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and chill in the refrigerator for at least two hours to let the flavors develop and the whipped cream set, making it the perfect holiday treat to enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake
Fridge: Keep any leftover Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the cake remains moist and the flavors meld beautifully.
Freezer: You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Slice individual portions and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen slices, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. If you prefer a warm treat, microwave on low for 15-20 seconds. Avoid overheating to maintain the cake’s fluffy texture.
Serving: For best taste, serve chilled directly from the refrigerator. The contrast of the cold whipped cream with the tangy cranberry is simply delightful!
Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake
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Chill Your Whipped Cream: Always chill your heavy cream and mixing tools before whipping. This ensures a light and fluffy texture for the topping.
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Sauce Consistency Check: If your cranberry sauce seems too runny, simmer it longer until it thickens to a syrupy consistency. This will soak into the cake better.
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Cooling Time: Make sure the cake is completely cool before adding whipped cream. This prevents the cream from melting and losing its shape atop the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake.
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Poking Holes Technique: When poking holes, make them about an inch apart but be careful not to reach the bottom of the cake. This allows for better absorption without compromising the structure.
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Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to the cranberry mixture. This enhances the tartness and adds depth to the cake’s flavor profile.
Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Variations
Let your imagination run wild with these fun twists! You’ll create a delightful masterpiece that stands out with each unique touch.
- Citrusy Kick: Swap white cake for lemon cake for a refreshing twist that blends beautifully with the tart cranberries.
- Chocolate Delight: Stir in some cocoa powder into the white cake mix for a decadent chocolate cake base; serve with chocolate whipped cream for a delightful pairing.
- Minty Freshness: Use peppermint extract in your whipped cream—this adds a festive flair that’s perfect for the holidays and enlivens the flavors beautifully.
- Berry Bliss: Exchange cranberries for strawberries or raspberries. Each berry lends its unique sweetness, creating a fresh and vibrant alternative.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top your cake with a warm caramel drizzle right before serving. The rich sweetness will complement the tangy cranberry sauce perfectly.
- Nutty Texture: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter or sprinkle them over the whipped topping for an added crunch and delightful nutty flavor.
- Spiced Seasonal Flavor: Infuse some ground cinnamon and nutmeg into the cake or whipped cream for that cozy holiday vibe.
- Pumpkin Twist: Incorporate pure pumpkin puree into the white cake mix for a festive fall-inspired poke cake that’s especially delightful in autumn!
For further inspiration, consider pairing your variations with refreshing desserts like a Matcha Sponge Cake or a rich Nutty Vanilla Cake. Each twist allows you to create an unforgettable dessert experience this holiday season!
What to Serve with Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake
Indulge in a festive feast by complementing your sweet treat with delicious sides and beverages that complete the holiday spirit.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A velvety side dish that adds a rich texture and warmth, making it ideal for balancing the tartness of the poke cake.
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Maple Glazed Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized sprouts bring a delightful sweetness and slight crunch, enhancing the flavors of your holiday meal. The earthy notes harmonize beautifully with the cranberries in the cake.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of colorful carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes add a wholesome touch, creating a comforting visual and flavor contrast to your dessert.
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Warm Apple Cider: This steaming drink warms hearts with spiced flavors, echoing the cake’s seasonal vibes while offering a refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
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Chocolate Truffles: Rich chocolate decadence makes for a luxurious addition, providing a sweet contrast to the cake’s tart notes, ideal for chocolate lovers.
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Ginger Snap Cookies: Spicy and crisp, these cookies are delightful when paired with the soft, moist cake, adding an enticing crunch to your dessert table.
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Peppermint Hot Chocolate: Create a cozy drink experience with this festive favorite—mellowing the tangy taste from the cake while providing a delightful contrast of flavors and aromas.
Make Ahead Options
The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is absolutely perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday hustle! You can prepare the cake base and cranberry sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while easing your workload. Simply bake the cake and let it cool completely before pouring the warm cranberry sauce over it. Once done, cover it tightly and refrigerate. Then, when you’re ready to serve, whip the cream and spread it on top—this method ensures that the whipped cream stays light and fluffy, keeping the cake just as delicious as if made fresh!
Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of cranberries should I use for the sauce?
Absolutely! Fresh cranberries provide the best tartness and vibrant color for your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake. Look for firm, plump berries without any dark spots. If fresh cranberries aren’t available, you can use canned whole-berry cranberry sauce as a quick and easy substitute.
How should I store the leftover cake?
Very simple! Keep any leftover Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps retain its moisture, and the flavors will continue to meld beautifully during that time.
Can I freeze the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, slice your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored for up to 2 months, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the slices in the refrigerator overnight.
Why is my cranberry sauce too runny, and how can I fix it?
If your cranberry sauce ends up too runny, don’t worry! Simply return it to the stovetop and simmer over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Let it cook until it thickens to a syrupy consistency, usually 5-10 more minutes. This will make it perfect for soaking into the cake!
Is this cake suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Great question! The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is vegetarian-friendly, and if you’re cautious about allergies, check the labels on your cake mix and heavy cream to avoid any dairy or gluten issues. For an egg-free version, you might substitute the eggs with a flaxseed mix (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) or use egg replacers available at the store.
Irresistible Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions, combining with eggs, butter, and water. Pour the batter into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and bake for 30–35 minutes until golden brown. Once baked, let cool for 10 minutes.
- While the cake cools, prepare the cranberry sauce by combining fresh cranberries and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until cranberries burst and mixture thickens, about 10–15 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Poke holes all over the top of the cooled cake about one inch apart using the handle of a wooden spoon. Ensure to poke deep enough without going through the bottom.
- Pour the warm cranberry sauce evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Let absorb for 20 minutes at room temperature.
- Prepare the whipped cream by beating the heavy cream in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form. Add vanilla extract and sugar to taste.
- Spread the whipped cream generously over the cake. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least two hours before serving.