If you’re a coconut lover like me, you’re in for a treat with this Coconut Cream Poke Cake recipe. This delightful dessert combines the tropical flavors of coconut with a moist white cake base, creating a heavenly indulgence perfect for summer potlucks.
Imagine a luscious white cake soaked in rich coconut cream, topped with fluffy cool whip, and generously sprinkled with shredded coconut. This Coconut Cream Poke Cake is a must-try for anyone craving a taste of paradise in every bite.
Whether you’re a die-hard coconut enthusiast or just looking to elevate your dessert game, this easy-to-make Coconut Cream Poke Cake promises to transport your taste buds to warm summer days with its creamy texture and irresistible coconut flavor.
Ingredients
For this wonderful Coconut Cream Poke Cake, you’ll need these essential ingredients divided into categories for ease of preparation:
Cake Base Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix
- 3 large egg whites
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 cup oil
Coconut Cream Mixture
- 1 15oz can Cream of Coconut
- 2 cups of coconut flakes (toasted)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp coconut extract
- 1 1/2 cups toasted coconut
- 8 ounces frozen whipped topping (like Cool Whip, thawed)
- 1 cup sweetened shredded coconut
These ingredients will come together to create a flavorful and decadent Coconut Cream Poke Cake that will surely impress your taste buds.
Required Utensils and Equipment
To prepare this delicious coconut cream poke cake recipe, you will need a few essential utensils and equipment. Here is what you will need:
Utensils:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Fork for poking holes in the cake
- Mixing bowl for combining liquids
- Medium saucepan for heating the coconut milk mixture
- Whisk for stirring and combining ingredients
- Wooden spoon for poking holes in the cake
- Serving platter for presentation
- Oven for baking the cake
- Stove for heating the coconut milk mixture
- Refrigerator for chilling the cake before serving
Having these utensils and equipment ready will make the preparation process smooth and enjoyable.
Cake Preparation
Preparing a delicious Coconut Cream Poke Cake is a delightful experience that results in a tropical dessert everyone will love. Here’s how to mix the cake ingredients and bake it to perfection:
Mixing the Cake Ingredients
- Gather all your ingredients, including the white cake mix, eggs, vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla. Ensure you have a neutral-flavored white cake mix for the best coconut taste.
- Mix the white cake mix with the required ingredients according to the package instructions. Combine the cake mix with the coconut cream pudding mix for that extra coconut flavor.
- Preheat your oven following the instructions on the cake mix box. Ensure your 9×13-inch baking pan is ready by spraying it with cooking spray.
- Spread the cake batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake according to the package directions. My cake usually bakes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 23 minutes.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before poking holes all over the top using a fork or the end of a wooden spoon.
It’s time to move on to the next step of creating this irresistible Coconut Cream Poke Cake.
Assembling the Coconut Cream Poke Cake
Poking the Cake
After baking the white cake mix and letting it cool, it’s time to create channels for the delicious coconut cream to seep into. Using the end of a wooden spoon, poke holes throughout the cake, ensuring to vary the depths for optimal flavor absorption.
Adding the Coconut Cream
Pour the decadent mixture of cream of coconut and condensed milk all over the cake slowly. Make sure the liquid evenly covers the surface without overflowing the edges, ensuring a moist and flavorful outcome.
Applying the Toppings
To finish off this coconut delight, generously spread Cool Whip over the top of the cake, and sprinkle sweetened coconut flakes for an added crunch and flavor. Refrigerate the cake to set the flavors before serving in perfect slices of coconut goodness.
Make-Ahead Tips
When preparing this delightful coconut cream poke cake, I like to utilize a few make-ahead tips to streamline the process and ensure a stress-free baking experience. Here are my recommended steps for prepping ahead:
- Prepare the White Cake: You can bake the white cake layer a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature once cooled. This eliminates last-minute baking and allows the cake to settle for optimal flavor absorption.
- Soak the Cake: After baking the white cake, you can poke it with holes and pour the coconut cream mixture over it. Cover the cake and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld together, enhancing the overall taste and texture of the dessert.
- Whipped Topping: While fresh whipped cream always elevates the cake, you can also prepare the whipped topping ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This step saves time on the day of serving and ensures a beautifully finished cake.
By incorporating these make-ahead tips into your coconut cream poke cake preparation, you can enjoy a delectable dessert without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Plan ahead, and savor the delicious results when serving this delightful treat to your guests or family.
Serving and Storage
Serving Suggestions
When serving this delightful Coconut Cream Poke Cake, consider cutting the cake into smaller square sizes due to its rich and dense texture. The cake is best enjoyed cold from the refrigerator, offering a refreshing tropical dessert experience. Additionally, consider garnishing individual slices with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for an extra crunch and coconut flavor burst.
Storage Instructions
To preserve the freshness and quality of the Coconut Cream Poke Cake, cover the cake securely and store it in the refrigerator. Due to the cream and butter content, refrigeration is necessary to maintain the integrity of the cake. When storing leftovers, ensure they are covered well to prevent drying out and maintain the moistness of the cake. Enjoy the cake at its best within a few days of preparation for optimal taste and texture.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of creating a delectable Coconut Cream Poke Cake is a delightful journey for coconut lovers. The blend of moist white cake, rich coconut cream, and fluffy Cool Whip creates a harmonious symphony of flavors and textures. By following the simple steps outlined in this recipe, you can indulge in a slice of tropical paradise with every bite. Remember to prepare ahead for optimal taste and convenience, allowing the cake to chill and flavors to meld together seamlessly. Whether enjoyed as a refreshing dessert on a warm day or as a sweet treat for any occasion, this Coconut Cream Poke Cake is sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more. Elevate your baking skills and treat yourself to a slice of coconut bliss with this irresistible recipe.
