Name: Delightful Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake to Wow Your Guests
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 170 min
Ingredients: 1 box White Cake Mix (Consider making a homemade version for a personal touch.); 1 cup Water (Ensure it's at room temperature for even mixing.); 1 cup Cranberry Sauce (Store-bought is convenient, but homemade elevates flavor.); 1 container Whipped Topping (Substitute with fresh whipped cream for an indulgent twist.)

The moment I spied that vibrant red cranberry sauce nestled on the shelf, I knew I had to create something extraordinary for the holidays. Enter my Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake—a festive delight that captures the essence of the season! This dessert features a moist white cake that acts as the perfect canvas for a tangy cranberry infusion, all topped with a fluffy layer of whipped cream. It’s a simple yet impressive treat that makes holiday gatherings feel extra special and can even turn a quiet evening into a celebration. Not only does it tick all the boxes as a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a breeze to prepare. Imagine slicing into this colorful cake, revealing all its layers of flavor and festivity. Are you ready to bring some holiday cheer into your kitchen?

Why Will You Love This Festive Cake?

Ease of Preparation: This cake comes together effortlessly, even for beginner bakers! With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dessert that will impress your guests.

Bright and Festive Flavors: The sweet and tangy cranberry sauce pairs beautifully with the moist white cake, giving each bite a cheerful burst of flavor perfect for holiday gatherings.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to experiment! Swap the cranberry sauce for other fruit preserves, like raspberry or blueberry, to create your own crowd-pleasing spin.

Make-Ahead Delight: Prepare it in advance for stress-free entertaining! It’s best served chilled, saving you valuable time on the big day.

Showstopper Presentation: With its vibrant colors and fluffy topping, this Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake will become the centerpiece of your dessert table. Your guests won’t be able to resist slicing into it! For another delightful option, check out my Nutty Vanilla Cake for more mouthwatering holiday treats.

Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Ingredients

• Get ready to delight your guests!

For the Cake

White Cake Mix – Offers a light and fluffy structure; consider making a homemade version for a personal touch.
Water – Hydrates the mix; ensure it’s at room temperature for even mixing.

For the Cranberry Layer

Cranberry Sauce – Adds that necessary tanginess; store-bought is convenient, but homemade elevates the flavor!

For the Topping

Whipped Topping – Creates a light, airy finish; substitute with fresh whipped cream for an indulgent twist.

Each ingredient in this festive Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake enriches the holiday spirit, making it an unforgettable centerpiece for your gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix and water, stirring until the batter is smooth and well blended. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Create Poke Holes
After allowing the cake to cool slightly, use a skewer or the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the entire surface of the cake. Make sure the holes are about an inch apart to ensure that the cranberry sauce can seep into the cake. This step is crucial for your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake, as it allows the flavors to infuse delightfully into the moist cake.

Step 3: Add Cranberry Sauce
Take your cranberry sauce and pour it evenly over the top of the cake, allowing it to seep into the poked holes. As you pour, be sure to cover the surface so that every bite will have that festive tang. Let the cake sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the cranberry sauce fully before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Top with Whipped Topping
Once the cranberry sauce has settled into the cake, it’s time to add the whipped topping. Using a rubber spatula, spread the whipped topping generously over the cranberry layer, ensuring to cover the cake completely for an inviting presentation. This fluffy layer makes the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake not just delicious but visually striking as well.

Step 5: Chill
Now, it’s important to refrigerate the cake. Cover it with plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. This chilling process helps the cake set properly and enhances its taste, so don’t rush this step!

Step 6: Serve
When you’re ready to serve your festive masterpiece, slice the chilled Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake into squares. Garnish each piece with fresh cranberries or a sprig of mint for a festive touch. This delightful dessert, perfect for holiday gatherings, is now ready to be enjoyed by all!

What to Serve with Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

Elevate your holiday experience with delightful sides and pairings that complement the vibrant flavors of this festive dessert.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness contrasts beautifully with the tangy cranberry, creating a well-rounded holiday plate.
Honey-Glazed Carrots: The sweet glaze perfectly balances the tartness of the cake, offering a hint of warmth and comfort.
Cranberry Sauce: Serve alongside for an extra pop of flavor; it enhances each slice, adding to the Christmas vibes!
Baked Ham: This savory dish pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the poke cake, making for a delightful culinary experience.
Fresh Salad: A light green salad with citrus dressing refreshes your palate between bites of the rich cake, keeping the meal vibrant.
Hot Cocoa or Spiced Cider: Cozy up with warm drinks that mirror the festive spirit, bringing warmth and comfort to your holiday table.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy goodness melts alongside the cake, creating an indulgent dessert sensation that’s simply irresistible.

Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake, allowing your unique taste to shine through!

Gluten-Free: Swap the white cake mix for a gluten-free version, ensuring all toppings are also gluten-free for a worry-free treat.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce: For a fresher taste, prepare your homemade cranberry sauce using fresh cranberries boiled with sugar until thickened, boosting the festive flavor. It’s a labor of love that pays off!
Berry Medley: Mix in different fruit preserves like raspberry or blueberry for a vibrant twist on the classic poke cake; each variation can evoke a fun new mood at your gatherings.
Spiced Poke Cake: Incorporate cinnamon and nutmeg into the cake mix for a warm, holiday spice that complements the tartness of the cranberries perfectly. Just a pinch can elevate the festive vibe!
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the whipped topping for an added layer of texture; the delightful crunch pairs wonderfully with the soft cake.
Chocolate Drizzle: Enhance the indulgence by drizzling melted chocolate over the whipped topping for a luxurious touch that every chocolate lover will appreciate!
Layered Delight: For a showstopper, create a layered version using two 9-inch round cakes. Alternate layers of cranberry sauce and whipped topping for an impressive presentation.

Explore these variations to craft your ideal holiday dessert! If you’re looking for another delightful cake option, consider making my Cream Cheese Cake for a rich twist!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

Fridge: Store the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake may become softer as it sits, but the flavors will continue to meld deliciously.

Freezer: If you want to freeze it, slice the cake first, then wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container. This will keep it fresh for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen cake, transfer the slices to the fridge to thaw overnight. Allow them to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Reheating: If desired, you can briefly microwave individual slices for about 10-15 seconds to enjoy a warm piece of this festive cake, bringing back that homemade feel!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Cranberry Poke Cakes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy quality time with loved ones during the busy holiday season. You can bake the white cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply cool it completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. The cranberry sauce can be prepared a day ahead as well; store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. On the day of serving, poke holes in the cake, pour over the cranberry sauce, and top with whipped topping. Chill for at least 2 hours before slicing, and you’ll have a show-stopping dessert that’s just as delicious and fresh as if made the same day!

Expert Tips for Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

Cooling Is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding cranberry sauce to avoid melting the topping and ensure a beautiful finish.
Poke with Purpose: Use evenly spaced holes to maximize flavor infusion; aim for about an inch apart for even distribution of the cranberry sauce.
Homemade Sauce Upgrade: For a richer taste, consider making your own cranberry sauce by simmering fresh cranberries with sugar until thickened—it’s worth the effort for this holiday dessert!
Chill for Flavor: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving; this allows the flavors of the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
Garnish Thoughtfully: A garnish of fresh cranberries or mint not only enhances presentation but also adds a refreshing burst of flavor to each slice!

Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cranberries for the cranberry sauce?
Absolutely! When selecting cranberries, look for firm, plump berries without any dark spots or mushiness. Fresh cranberries should be shiny and vibrant in color, indicating ripeness. If you’re using canned cranberry sauce, check the label for fewer preservatives for a more natural option.

What is the best way to store leftover Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake?
Very! After serving, cover the cake with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the cake may become softer as it sits, but the flavors will meld beautifully, making it just as delightful the next day!

Can I freeze Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake for later?
Definitely! To freeze, slice the cake into individual portions, then tightly wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in an airtight container or freezer bag. The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best eating quality, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
Not to worry! If your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing or not measuring your ingredients accurately. Be sure to gently fold the batter, and always use room temperature water for the perfect consistency. If baking from scratch, ensure you sift your flour before measuring it to prevent clumps.

Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies with this cake?
Absolutely! This Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is vegetarian-friendly, making it a delightful option for many. However, for those with allergies, be cautious of whipped toppings that may contain dairy or other allergens. If you have pets, avoid letting them have any cake, especially due to the sugar and potential chocolate in some toppings. Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens if you’re catering to specific dietary needs.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, indeed! To prepare a gluten-free version of the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake, you can use a gluten-free cake mix. Always read the labels on your toppings, such as whipped cream or sauces, to ensure that they are gluten-free as well. The cake may vary slightly in texture but will still be delightful and just as festive!