Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake

The scent of tart cranberries and warm vanilla fills the air, promising a Winter holiday treat that dances on your tongue. Imagine a moist, fluffy cake soaked in a vibrant cranberry sauce, topped with a creamy, dreamy frosting: This is Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake.

Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a festive centerpiece that embodies the joy and flavors of the holiday season. It is one of the best desserts that will leave everyone feeling warm, fuzzy, and ready for some carols.

Here’s why you’ll adore this Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake:

• This recipe requires minimal effort and uses simple ingredients, making it perfect for busy holiday schedules.
• The combination of sweet cake, tangy cranberry, and smooth frosting creates a perfectly balanced taste experience.
• Its vibrant red cranberry sauce and white frosting create a stunning dessert that will impress everyone at your table.
• It’s easily adaptable to different dietary needs and preferences, making it a crowd-pleasing option for all.

Ingredients for Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boxed White Cake Mix Provides the base for the cake; choose your favorite brand and flavor.

Eggs They add richness and structure to the cake, binding the ingredients together.

Vegetable Oil Keeps the cake moist and tender.

Water Hydrates the cake batter, ensuring a smooth consistency.

Canned Cranberry Sauce The star of the show! It’s best to use whole berry cranberry sauce for the perfect texture in this poke cake.

Sweetened Condensed Milk Creates the luscious, creamy filling that soaks into the cake.

Heavy Whipping Cream The base for the frosting, providing a rich and decadent texture.

Powdered Sugar Sweetens the frosting, creating a smooth and stable topping.

Alcohol-free alcohol-free vanilla extract Enhances the flavor of the frosting with its warm and inviting aroma.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Bake the Cake

Prepare the white cake mix according to the package directions, using eggs, vegetable oil, and water as instructed. Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for the time indicated on the cake mix box, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 2: Poke and Soak

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the surface of the cake. In a bowl, combine the canned cranberry sauce and sweetened condensed milk. Pour this mixture evenly over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.

Step 3: Chill the Cake

Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the cranberry mixture to fully soak into the cake, creating a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the heavy whipping cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Gradually add the powdered sugar and Alcohol-free alcohol-free vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting evenly over the chilled cranberry-soaked cake. For an extra touch of festivity, garnish with fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Slice into squares and serve chilled. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve cake nirvana, bake the cake first and let it cool completely. Then, poke those glorious holes! Next, pour the cranberry sauce mixture evenly so every bite is infused with that festive zing. Finally, frost it once the sauce has settled.

Add Your Touch

Want to get wild? Try adding orange zest to the cranberry sauce for an extra citrusy kick. Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the frosting for added crunch. For a different frosting, try a cream cheese version.

Storing & Reheating

This Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake is best stored in the refrigerator, covered tightly, to maintain its moisture. It’s usually served cold, there’s no need for reheating! The flavors meld together beautifully after a day or two, so plan accordingly!

3 Helpful Tips:

• To ensure even distribution of the cranberry sauce, use the back of a spoon to gently press it into the poke holes; this helps prevent dry spots.
• Don’t overbake the cake! Start checking for doneness a few minutes early to avoid a dry cake, which won’t absorb the cranberry sauce as well.
• For an extra festive look, garnish with fresh cranberries and a dusting of powdered sugar before serving your delightful poke cake.

(Personal anecdote formated as paragraph subheading)

My family raved about this cake last Winter holiday! My notoriously picky uncle even asked for seconds, which, let me tell you, is a Winter holiday miracle in itself. The cranberry sauce was a hit!

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Okay, folks, gather ’round, because we’re about to embark on a culinary journey that’s more exciting than finding the last roll of wrapping paper on Winter evening! Today, we’re diving headfirst into the wonderful world of the Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake. And trust me, this isn’t your grandma’s fruitcake (no offense, Grandma!).

Why This Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake Is a Must-Try

Let’s be honest, the holiday season is jam-packed with food. From the Harvest celebration leftovers that linger longer than your in-laws to the endless supply of cookies, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But this Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake? It’s different. It’s a showstopper, a crowd-pleaser, and surprisingly easy to make.

Imagine this: A moist, fluffy cake soaked in a tangy-sweet cranberry sauce, topped with a cloud of creamy frosting. Sounds divine, right? This cake isn’t just delicious; it’s also visually stunning. The vibrant red cranberry sauce seeping into the cake makes it look like a work of art. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up that leftover cranberry sauce (you know, the kind that’s not jelly-like from a can!). We’re talking real cranberry sauce here, people!

The History (or My Version of It)

Now, I’m not going to bore you with the actual history of poke cakes (because, let’s face it, who really cares?). But I will tell you my personal history with them. My first encounter with a poke cake was at a summer potluck, and it was… interesting. The cake was dry, the filling was gloppy, and the whole thing tasted vaguely of regret.

But I saw the potential! I knew that with a little tweaking, a poke cake could be a masterpiece. And that’s how this Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake was born. After several attempts (and a few near-disasters), I finally perfected the recipe. And now, I’m sharing it with you! I also want to ensure that my poke cake is not like others I have tasted, ensuring the cranberry and cake flavor is prominent, and there’s plenty of moistness.

Gather Your Arsenal: Ingredients You’ll Need

Alright, let’s get down to business. Here’s what you’ll need to create this festive masterpiece:

For the Cake:

• 1 box of yellow cake mix (and the ingredients listed on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water) – Let’s keep things simple, shall we?
• 1/2 cup of sour cream – This is our secret weapon for a super moist cake.
• 1 teaspoon Alcohol-free alcohol-free vanilla extract – Because everything is better with vanilla.

For the Cranberry Sauce:

• 1 (12-ounce) bag of fresh or frozen cranberries – The star of the show!
• 1 cup of sugar – Because cranberries are tart little devils.
• 1 cup of water – To help the cranberries cook down.
• 1/2 cup orange juice – Adds a bright, citrusy note.
• 1 teaspoon orange zest – More orange flavor, please!
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon – A touch of holiday warmth.

For the Frosting:

• 1 (8-ounce) container of whipped topping, thawed – Easy peasy, lemon squeezy.
• Optional: Fresh cranberries and powdered sugar for garnish – For that extra “wow” factor.

Step-by-Step: Making the Magic Happen

Okay, now for the fun part! Here’s how to bring this Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake to life:

Bake the Cake:

1. Preheat your oven according to the cake mix box instructions. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. We don’t want any sticky situations here!

2. Prepare the cake batter according to the box instructions, but add the sour cream and Alcohol-free alcohol-free vanilla extract. The sour cream makes the cake very moist, which is essential to a good poke cake.

3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake according to the box instructions, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and springy to the touch.

4. Let the cake cool completely in the pan. This is crucial! If you poke a warm cake, you’ll end up with a soggy mess.

Make the Cranberry Sauce:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, orange zest, and cinnamon.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As the cranberries burst, they release their juices, creating a beautiful, vibrant sauce.

3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the cranberry sauce cool slightly. You don’t want to pour hot sauce onto the cake.

Poke and Soak:

1. Once the cake has cooled completely, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the cake. Make sure the holes are evenly spaced and go all the way to the bottom of the cake. This is where the magic happens!

2. Slowly and evenly pour the slightly cooled cranberry sauce over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes. The cake will absorb the sauce, becoming incredibly moist and flavorful.

3. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to fully absorb the cranberry sauce.

Frost and Garnish:

1. Once the cake has chilled, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top.

2. If desired, garnish with fresh cranberries and a dusting of powdered sugar. This adds a festive touch and makes the cake look even more appealing.

3. Slice, serve, and prepare for rave reviews!

Troubleshooting: Avoiding Disaster

Even the best cooks have their off days. Here are a few common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• **Dry Cake:** Make sure you don’t overbake the cake. And don’t skip the sour cream!
• **Soggy Cake:** Let the cake cool completely before poking and soaking. And don’t pour hot cranberry sauce over the cake.
• **Uneven Cranberry Distribution:** Pour the cranberry sauce slowly and evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes.
• **Bland Frosting:** Feel free to add a little Alcohol-free alcohol-free vanilla extract or orange zest to the whipped topping for extra flavor. Or swap it out for a cream cheese frosting!

Variations: Spice Things Up

Want to put your own spin on this Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake? Here are a few ideas:

• **Spice it up:** Add a pinch of ground cloves or nutmeg to the cranberry sauce for a warmer, spicier flavor.
• **Nutty Delight:** Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
• **Citrus Burst:** Use lemon juice and zest instead of orange for a different citrusy twist.
• **Cake Swap:** Use a chocolate cake mix instead of yellow for a richer, more decadent dessert.

Serving Suggestions: Making It a Meal

This Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake is the perfect ending to any holiday meal. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s also delicious on its own, with a cup of coffee or tea. This Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake makes a festive centerpiece for a Winter holiday dessert buffet. Its vibrant colors and delicious flavors are sure to impress your guests.

The Final Verdict

So there you have it, folks! The Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake – a festive, flavorful, and surprisingly easy dessert that’s sure to become a holiday favorite. This Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake is a dessert that brings joy and festivity to any occasion, from family dinners to holiday parties. Go ahead, give it a try. You might just surprise yourself (and your taste buds!). And who knows, maybe this will be your new Winter holiday tradition.

Conclusion for Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake

This Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake is a delightful holiday treat that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious. The combination of the moist cake, the sweet-tart cranberry sauce, and the creamy frosting creates a symphony of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. Whether you’re serving it at a festive gathering or enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee by the fireplace, this cake is sure to bring joy to your holiday season. It is also a recipe that invites creativity, so feel free to tweak it to your taste.

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FAQs

Can I make Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake is practically begging to be made in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight allows the cranberry sauce to seep into those delightful little pokes, making each bite even more flavorful and moist. Just prepare the cake according to the instructions, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. You can then frost it just before serving, or even frost it in advance too! It’s a fantastic way to get a head start on your holiday baking and free up some precious time for other festive activities like untangling Winter holiday lights or hiding from carolers.

How do I prevent the Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake from being soggy?

The key to avoiding a soggy Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake lies in using the right amount of cranberry sauce. Don’t go overboard! While we want those delicious cranberry flavors infused throughout the cake, too much liquid can make it overly moist. Also, ensure your cake is completely cool before you start poking holes and adding the cranberry sauce. A warm cake will absorb the sauce much faster, increasing the risk of sogginess. If you’re concerned, you can even drain some of the excess juice from the cranberry sauce before pouring it over the cake.

What’s the best way to store leftover poke cake?

Storing your leftover Winter holiday Cranberry Poke Cake is a breeze. Simply cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Then, pop it in the refrigerator. The cool temperature will help keep the cake moist and prevent it from drying out. It should stay fresh and delicious for up to three to four days, although I highly doubt it will last that long. I mean, who can resist a slice of moist, cranberry-infused cake? Every time I make it, it disappears in a flash!

Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?

You sure can! While a white cake mix provides a beautiful canvas for the cranberry sauce, feel free to experiment. A yellow cake mix would add a richer, buttery flavor, or even a lemon cake mix could create a delightful tartness that complements the cranberries perfectly. Just keep in mind that the color of the cake will affect the overall appearance. Also, adjust the baking time accordingly, as different cake mixes may bake at slightly different rates. But honestly, it is hard to mess this recipe up, so feel free to get creative!