Lemon Burst Poke Cake

Lemon Burst Poke Cake is a refreshing and vibrant dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. With a moist lemon cake base soaked in lemon pudding and topped with whipped cream, this cake delivers a bright citrus flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for spring and summer gatherings, or whenever you crave something sweet, tart, and easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is a citrus lover’s dream. It’s incredibly moist thanks to the pudding that “pokes” through each bite. It uses simple ingredients and is semi-homemade—perfect for busy bakers or last-minute entertaining. The vibrant lemon flavor is both sweet and tangy, offering a light and satisfying dessert that’s a hit at potlucks and parties.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Lemon cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box such as eggs, oil, and water)
• Instant lemon pudding mix
• Milk (for the pudding)
• Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
• Fresh lemon zest (optional for garnish)
• Lemon slices (optional for garnish)

directions

this recipe

1. Preheat your oven and prepare the lemon cake mix according to the package instructions.
2. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake until golden and cooked through. Let cool slightly.
3. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake.
4. Whisk together the instant lemon pudding mix and milk until thickened but still pourable.
5. Pour the pudding evenly over the cake, letting it seep into the holes.
6. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to set.
7. Spread whipped topping over the chilled cake.
8. Garnish with lemon zest or lemon slices if desired.
9. Slice and serve cold.

Servings and timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• From Scratch: Use a homemade lemon cake recipe if preferred over boxed mix.
• Extra Tangy: Add lemon juice or zest to the cake batter or pudding.
• Berry Twist: Top with fresh raspberries or blueberries for added flavor and color.
• Lemon-Lime: Mix in lime zest or use lime pudding for a fun citrus variation.
• Frosting Swap: Replace whipped topping with lemon buttercream or cream cheese frosting.

storage/reheating

Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cake actually becomes more flavorful as it chills. This dessert is best served cold and does not require reheating. Freezing is possible for up to 1 month, but texture may slightly change upon thawing.

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a sheet cake that has holes poked into it after baking so a filling (like pudding or Jell-O) can seep into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.

Can I use homemade lemon pudding?

Yes, homemade pudding works great as long as it’s thick enough to stay in the cake without making it soggy.

Does the cake need to be completely cool before adding pudding?

No, the cake should be warm but not hot to help absorb the pudding effectively.

Can I use other cake flavors?

Absolutely. White or vanilla cake mix also pairs well with lemon pudding for a milder flavor.

What kind of milk should I use for the pudding?

Whole milk is best for a rich consistency, but 2% works fine too. Avoid non-dairy or low-fat milk as they may not set properly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake is ideal for making a day ahead. It needs to chill, and the flavor intensifies overnight.

Can I make this cake without whipped topping?

You can use homemade whipped cream or a light lemon frosting as an alternative.

How do I keep the whipped topping from getting runny?

Make sure the cake is completely chilled before adding the topping and keep it refrigerated until serving.

Is this cake overly sweet?

It’s sweet but balanced by the tart lemon flavor. You can reduce sweetness by using less topping or choosing sugar-free pudding.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to a month. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Conclusion

Lemon Burst Poke Cake is a bright and cheerful dessert that’s simple to make and impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just need a sweet treat in the fridge, this cake delivers bold lemon flavor and perfect texture in every slice. Make it once, and it’ll quickly become a staple in your dessert lineup.

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