Craving a decadent dessert that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat? Dive into the world of Red Velvet Poke Cake recipes! This irresistible treat combines the rich flavors of red velvet cake with a luscious cheesecake filling, all topped with a dreamy layer of whipped cream and crushed Oreos.
Inspired by the success of the Banana Pudding Poke Cake, this Red Velvet version is a perfect sweet surprise for any occasion, especially Valentine’s Day. Whether you opt for a homemade red velvet cake base or a convenient mix, the result is a moist, chocolatey delight that’s sure to impress.
Indulge in the moist, sweet, and velvety goodness of this Red Velvet Poke Cake – a dessert that’s not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes. Get ready to elevate your baking game with this easy yet impressive recipe that’s bound to become a favorite year-round.
Ingredients
Creating a delicious Red Velvet Poke Cake requires the perfect combination of ingredients. Let’s break down what you need for the cake, the poke filling, and the cream cheese frosting.
For the Red Velvet Cake:
- 1 box red velvet cake mix
- Ingredients listed on the cake mix box (typically eggs, oil, and water)
For the Poke Filling:
- 1 can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup (236.59 g) salted butter, at room temperature
- 8 ounces (226.8 g) cream cheese, at room temperature
- 3 ½ cups (420 g) powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
Equipment Needed
When preparing this delectable Red Velvet Poke Cake, having the right equipment on hand is essential to ensure a smooth baking experience. Here are the tools you will need to create this indulgent dessert:
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Aluminum foil
- Cooking spray
- Wooden spoon (blunt end)
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Preparation Steps
Let’s dive into the preparation steps to create this delectable Red Velvet Poke Cake. Follow these simple guidelines to make a mouth-watering dessert that will impress your guests on any occasion.
Preparing the Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy for about 3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, to the creamed mixture, making sure to beat well after each addition.
- In a separate small bowl, mix cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and red food coloring to form a thick paste. Add this paste to the batter and mix until fully combined.
- Gradually add buttermilk and flour to the batter, alternating between the two until all ingredients are incorporated and the batter is smooth.
- Reduce the mixer speed and add salt, baking soda, and vinegar. Beat the mixture on high speed for about 1 minute.
- Pour the prepared cake batter into the greased baking pan and bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-28 minutes, or follow the package directions until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before proceeding to the next step.
- Use the blunt end of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly over the surface of the cake.
- Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk mixture over the holes, ensuring even distribution to soak the cake.
- Place the cake in the fridge to cool for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the frosting.
Creating the Poke Cake
For a delicious Red Velvet Poke Cake, follow these steps to create a decadent dessert that will impress everyone.
Adding the Poke Filling
- After baking the red velvet cake and allowing it to cool, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface of the cake.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, combine melted white chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk until smooth.
- Slowly pour the white chocolate mixture over the cake, ensuring that it seeps into all the holes for a moist and flavorful outcome.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set and infuse the cake with richness.
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the cream cheese frosting by combining softened cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.
- Add mini semisweet chocolate chips to the frosting for a delightful texture and flavor contrast.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the chilled cake, covering it completely for a luscious finish.
- Top the cake with your choice of decorations like sprinkles, mini chocolate chips, or themed toppings to personalize the dessert and make it visually inviting.
Decorating Tips
Decorating a red velvet poke cake can take it from delicious to extraordinary with some simple yet elegant garnishing ideas and final touches.
Garnishing Ideas
For a touch of sophistication, consider garnishing your red velvet poke cake with a drizzle of raspberry sauce or a handful of fresh berries. These additions not only add a pop of color but also complement the rich flavors of the cake beautifully.
Final Touches
To give your cake a professional finish, try decorating it with edible flowers, slices of fruit, or delicate chocolate shavings. These final touches not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide a delightful surprise for anyone indulging in this decadent dessert.
Serving and Storing
Best Ways to Serve
When ready to serve the red velvet poke cake, consider topping each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for added decadence. The contrast of the creamy topping with the moist cake will enhance the overall flavor experience.
Storage Tips
To keep your red velvet poke cake fresh and delicious, store it covered in the refrigerator. Properly covered, the cake can last for up to 3-4 days, ensuring that you can enjoy this delightful dessert over multiple servings without compromising its taste and texture.
Conclusion
Red Velvet Poke Cake recipes offer a delightful twist on traditional desserts. With a rich red velvet base, creamy cheesecake filling, and endless topping possibilities, this dessert is sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving something sweet, this cake is a perfect choice. By following the detailed instructions and decorating tips provided, you can create a visually stunning and delicious treat that will leave your guests coming back for more. Remember to store any leftovers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and enjoy the cake for days to come. Get creative with your decorations and toppings to make each slice a work of art. Try out different combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy this decadent Red Velvet Poke Cake.