Description
This Pumpkin Poke Cake is a moist and delicious fall dessert that combines spiced pumpkin cake with creamy vanilla pudding and a fluffy whipped topping. Every bite is filled with the warm flavors of pumpkin spice, making it perfect for Thanksgiving, holiday gatherings, or any cozy autumn occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 1 box yellow cake mix (432 g / 15.25 oz)
- 1 can (425 g / 15 oz) pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Pudding Filling:
- 1 box (96 g / 3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
- 2 cups cold milk
For the Topping:
- 1 container (250 g / 8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip or homemade whipped cream)
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (optional)
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for dusting)
Instructions
🍰 Prepare the Cake:
-
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray.
-
Mix the Cake Batter:
- In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, pumpkin puree, eggs, oil, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, and cinnamon.
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
-
Bake the Cake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
-
Cool and Poke Holes:
- Let the cake cool for 10 minutes, then use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake (about 1 inch apart).
🍮 Make the Pudding Filling:
-
Prepare the Pudding:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant pudding mix and cold milk until smooth (about 2 minutes).
- Pour the pudding mixture evenly over the cake, spreading it with a spatula to fill the holes.
-
Chill the Cake:
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour to allow the pudding to set.
🧁 Add the Topping:
-
Top with Whipped Cream:
- Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
-
Add Garnishes:
- Drizzle with caramel sauce if using.
- Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts and dust lightly with cinnamon.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
- Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Notes
- Make Ahead: This cake can be made 1-2 days in advance. It actually tastes better as the flavors meld together!
- Storage: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.