Name: Red Velvet Poke Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: eggs, oil, water); 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk or 1 package instant cheesecake or vanilla pudding (prepared as directed); 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip); 4 oz cream cheese (optional, softened); Optional toppings: crushed cookies, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles

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Red Velvet Poke Cake is a rich, moist dessert that combines the elegance of classic red velvet cake with the creamy decadence of a pudding-soaked center. It’s finished off with a luscious layer of whipped topping, making each bite velvety and indulgent. Perfect for holidays, birthdays, or anytime I want to impress a crowd with minimal effort. Red Velvet Poke Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this cake takes a traditional red velvet recipe to a whole new level. The “poke” technique allows the cake to absorb sweet pudding or condensed milk, ensuring every forkful is moist and flavorful. It’s also incredibly easy to make using a boxed mix and a few pantry staples, so I can whip it up without stress. Whether I’m serving guests or satisfying a sweet tooth, this recipe always delivers.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Red velvet cake mix (plus the eggs, oil, and water needed to prepare it)
Sweetened condensed milk (or instant cheesecake or vanilla pudding)
Whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
Cream cheese (optional, for added richness)
Crushed cookies, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles for topping (optional)

Directions

I start by baking the red velvet cake according to the instructions on the box in a 9×13-inch pan.
Once the cake is done baking, I let it cool for about 10 minutes before using the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
I pour sweetened condensed milk or prepared pudding over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes.
Then, I chill the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours so the filling sets and flavors develop.
After it’s chilled, I spread whipped topping evenly over the surface.
Finally, I sprinkle crushed cookies, chocolate shavings, or sprinkles on top if I want a little extra flair before serving.

Servings and timing

This Red Velvet Poke Cake yields about 12 to 15 servings. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prepare, 30 minutes to bake, and at least 2 hours of chilling time before serving. I usually plan for around 3 hours total from start to finish.

Variations

I sometimes use cheesecake pudding instead of condensed milk for a richer flavor.
For a more intense chocolate taste, I mix cocoa powder into the whipped topping or sprinkle mini chocolate chips on top.
If I want a tangy finish, I blend cream cheese into the whipped topping before spreading it.
I’ve even tried this with homemade red velvet cake instead of a box mix when I have more time, and it turns out beautifully.

storage/reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Since it contains dairy, I always keep it chilled. This cake isn’t ideal for freezing because the texture of the whipped topping can change, but if I really need to, I freeze it without the topping and add that fresh before serving. No reheating is needed—this dessert is best served cold.

FAQs

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a cake that I bake and then poke holes into, usually with a spoon handle, so I can pour in a filling like pudding, sweetened condensed milk, or syrup. It helps infuse flavor and moisture throughout the entire cake.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead and keep it in the fridge. The longer it chills, the more flavorful and moist it becomes.

Can I use homemade red velvet cake?

Absolutely. I sometimes use a homemade red velvet recipe if I have the time, and it works perfectly for this style of cake.

What toppings work best?

I like to get creative with toppings—crushed Oreos, white chocolate curls, or festive sprinkles all make a great finish.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes, while red velvet is the star here, I’ve tried chocolate and even spice cake as alternatives and they work great with the same poke method.

Conclusion

Red Velvet Poke Cake is the kind of dessert that never fails to impress. It’s moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. Whether I’m preparing for a celebration or just want to indulge in something sweet and satisfying, this recipe is always a go-to. With its gorgeous red color and rich taste, it’s sure to become a favorite in any dessert lineup.