Description
This festive Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake is a show-stopping holiday dessert! Featuring a moist red velvet cake infused with peppermint-flavored sweetened condensed milk and topped with a fluffy peppermint whipped topping, it’s perfect for Christmas gatherings.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cake
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
For the Topping
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream (or 1 container of whipped topping)
- 2 tbsp powdered sugar
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract
- Red food coloring (optional, for a festive swirl effect)
For the Garnish
- Crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
- Shaved white or dark chocolate (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the red velvet cake batter according to the instructions on the box. Pour the batter into the prepared dish and bake as directed, typically 25–30 minutes.
- Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes, then use the back of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the cake.
2. Infuse the Cake
- Mix the sweetened condensed milk with the peppermint extract.
- Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to cool completely.
3. Prepare the Topping
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with a hand mixer until soft peaks form.
- Add the powdered sugar and peppermint extract, then whip until stiff peaks form.
- (Optional) For a festive swirl, gently fold in a few drops of red food coloring, leaving streaks for a marbled effect.
4. Decorate the Cake
- Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cooled cake.
- Sprinkle with crushed peppermint candies and chocolate shavings for garnish.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and serve chilled. This cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee!
Notes
- Make Ahead: This cake can be prepared a day in advance. Keep it covered and refrigerated until ready to serve.
- Peppermint Intensity: Adjust the peppermint extract to your taste. Start with less and add more if needed.
- Variation: Substitute the whipped cream with store-bought whipped topping for convenience.