Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

This festive poke cake is the perfect holiday dessert! A moist vanilla cake is infused with tart cranberry sauce and topped with a creamy whipped topping, making it a delicious and colorful addition to your Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 1 box vanilla cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box: eggs, oil, water)
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Whipped Topping:

• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream)
• ½ cup sweetened condensed milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cranberry Drizzle (Optional):

• ½ cup cranberry sauce
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box (usually 350°F / 175°C).
   • Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
   • Prepare the cake mix according to the instructions on the box (usually mixing the cake mix with eggs, oil, and water).
   • Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the package directions until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, about 30-35 minutes.
2. Poke the Cake:
   • Once the cake is baked, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
   • Use the end of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the top of the cake, making sure to go all the way down to the bottom.
3. Prepare the Cranberry Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix 1 cup of cranberry sauce with 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir until combined.
   • Spoon the cranberry mixture evenly over the top of the warm cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
4. Make the Whipped Topping:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the whipped topping, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract until smooth.
   • Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cranberry-infused cake.
5. Chill the Cake:
   • Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the cake to set.
6. Optional Cranberry Drizzle:
   • If you want a little extra touch, mix ½ cup cranberry sauce with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar until smooth. Drizzle this over the cake just before serving for added sweetness and festive flair.

Tips:

• Make Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance, and it actually tastes better the longer it sits, allowing the cranberry sauce to soak into the cake.
• Fresh Cranberries: If you prefer, you can use homemade cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries for a more intense tartness.
• Decorate: Garnish the cake with fresh cranberries, mint leaves, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar to make it extra festive.

🎄 Enjoy your Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake! It’s a sweet and tangy dessert that’s sure to bring holiday cheer to your table!