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
Scale
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.