Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake Recipe

When the holiday season rolls around, there’s always that one dessert everyone looks forward to – the showstopper that not only tastes amazing but feels like a celebration in itself. For me, this Christmas cranberry poke cake is just that! It’s delightfully moist, bursting with the tangy-sweet flavor of cranberries, and topped with a creamy whipped layer that feels like winter clouds on your taste buds. The best part? Those red and green sprinkles that give it that undeniable holiday charm.

this RECIPE

A little memory that inspired this festive treat

Growing up, I remember my grandmother making her famous cranberry sauce every Christmas. She’d simmer those berries until they popped and filled the house with the scent of sweet-tart goodness. While this cake is a much simpler nod to those flavors, every bite brings back a flood of holiday memories: the laughter, the twinkling lights, and the warmth of her kitchen. When I first made this poke cake, it instantly became a tradition. I mean, who can resist a dessert that combines nostalgia, effortless prep, and a picture-perfect finish?

Cranberries and cake: The perfect holiday pair

The concept of poke cake was born in the 1970s, popularized as an easy way to infuse flavor into every single bite of a dessert. Cranberries, on the other hand, are as Christmassy as it gets. Did you know that cranberries were once called “craneberries” because their blossoms resemble the head of a crane? Over time, they became a staple in winter feasts, especially in sauces and baked goods. This cake brings the best of both worlds: a classic poke cake with a holiday twist that’s as pretty as it is delicious.

Let’s talk ingredients: A few secrets to success

1. White cake mix: The foundation of this dessert. A simple boxed mix makes this recipe quick and foolproof, but if you’re feeling ambitious, a homemade vanilla sponge works beautifully too.
2. Cranberry sauce: The star ingredient! Whole berry sauce adds texture, while jellied sauce offers a smoother finish. Use whichever you love most. (Psst… homemade cranberry sauce is also an option if you’re feeling fancy!)
3. Whipped topping: This light, fluffy layer balances the tartness of the cranberries. If you’d prefer something homemade, fresh whipped cream with a hint of powdered sugar and vanilla works wonderfully.
4. Red and green sprinkles: Pure holiday joy in sprinkle form. These are optional, but trust me, they take the festive vibe to the next level.
5. Vanilla extract: A small but mighty addition that elevates the whipped topping into something special.

Kitchen gear you’ll need

For this cake, simplicity is key. Here’s what you’ll want on hand:

• 9×13-inch baking pan: A classic, no-frills pan that’s perfect for poke cakes.
• Wooden spoon handle: To create those signature “poke” holes. A straw or chopstick also works if that’s what you’ve got handy.
• Saucepan: To warm and combine the cranberry sauce with water and sugar.
• Offset spatula: This makes spreading the whipped topping a breeze, but a regular spatula or the back of a spoon works too.

Step-by-step: Making your Christmas cranberry poke cake

Let’s dive into the magic of making this cake!

1. Bake the base: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your white cake mix according to the box instructions (or your favorite homemade recipe), combining the eggs, water, and oil. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for about 10-15 minutes – just enough to handle but still slightly warm.
2. Prepare the cranberry layer: While the cake cools, grab a saucepan and stir together the cranberry sauce, water, and sugar over medium heat. The mixture should blend into a smooth, pourable consistency. Let it cool slightly, but not too much – you want it warm so it seeps easily into the cake.
3. Poke the cake: Once the cake is cool enough to touch, grab the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the surface. Space them about 1 inch apart, making sure you don’t poke all the way to the bottom. (Tip: Wiggling the spoon slightly widens the holes for better filling coverage!)
4. Infuse with cranberry goodness: Pour the warm cranberry mixture evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes. Don’t worry if it looks messy – that’s the beauty of poke cakes! Allow the cake to cool completely, then pop it into the fridge for at least 2 hours.
5. Add the finishing touches: In a mixing bowl, stir the vanilla extract into the whipped topping, then spread it generously over the chilled cake. Smooth it out for an even layer or create soft swirls for a more textured look. Finally, sprinkle the red and green sprinkles over the top. (Go as heavy or light as you like – no judgment here!)
6. Slice and serve: Cut into squares and serve chilled. Watch everyone’s faces light up as they take that first festive bite!

Variations and festive twists

This cake is endlessly adaptable. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

• Gluten-free: Swap the white cake mix for a gluten-free alternative. Most brands work well with the same instructions.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut whipped topping or another dairy-free alternative to make this cake friendly for everyone.
• Citrus kick: Add orange zest to the cranberry mixture for a bright, zippy flavor.
• Chocolate lovers’ dream: Replace the white cake mix with chocolate cake mix for a surprisingly decadent twist. Chocolate and cranberry are a match made in heaven!
• Seasonal flair: Experiment with different sprinkles or edible glitter to fit other occasions – like gold and silver for New Year’s or pastel shades for Easter.

Serving and presentation ideas

Want to make your cake even more memorable? Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream on the side and a sprig of fresh mint for a festive touch. Or, plate it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to add an indulgent contrast to the tangy cranberry flavor. For a party, arrange slices on a cake stand and garnish with sugared cranberries for a truly Instagram-worthy dessert table.

Pair it with the perfect holiday drinks

This cake pairs beautifully with warm, cozy beverages. A mug of mulled wine or spiced cider highlights the cranberry’s tart notes, while hot chocolate brings out its sweetness. For a non-alcoholic option, try cranberry punch or even a simple cup of tea – Earl Grey or chai are my personal favorites.

Storing and reheating

Leftovers? Lucky you! Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making it even better the next day. Freezing is also an option – just skip the whipped topping and sprinkles, wrap the cake tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then add the topping and garnish before serving.

Adjusting for different crowd sizes

Feeding a crowd? Double the recipe and bake it in two pans. If you’re serving a smaller group, halve the ingredients and bake in an 8×8-inch pan. Keep in mind that thicker cakes might need a few extra minutes in the oven, so keep an eye on them!

Common questions about Christmas cranberry poke cake

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake is even better when made a day ahead since it gives the cranberry mixture time to soak in. Just add the whipped topping and sprinkles before serving.

2. Can I use homemade cranberry sauce?
Yes! If you have leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving, this is the perfect way to use it up. Just make sure it’s smooth enough to pour.

3. Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?
Totally. Vanilla, butter, or even lemon cake mix can work. Each one adds a unique twist to the dessert.

4. How do I avoid soggy cake?
Be sure to let the cranberry mixture cool slightly before pouring it over the cake. Also, refrigerating the cake helps everything set beautifully.

5. Can I skip the sprinkles?
Of course, but they add that festive sparkle that’s hard to resist. Try crushed candy canes or edible glitter for a fun alternative!

Time to make it your own

There’s something magical about creating a dessert that feels so uniquely tied to the holiday season. This Christmas cranberry poke cake is simple, festive, and utterly delicious – a guaranteed hit at any gathering. So gather your ingredients, put on your favorite holiday playlist, and let’s bake some memories. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out!

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