Homemade Cherry Poke Cake with Pudding

Homemade Cherry Poke Cake with Pudding is a delicious dessert made with moist cake with sweet cherry flavor and creamy custard. It originally originated in American kitchens and is very popular due to its appealing taste and easy preparation. This dessert is a comforting treat that can be enjoyed as a delicious snack for any occasion, including get-togethers and celebrations. Its appeal lies in its blend of fruity freshness, velvety texture and nostalgic charm, making it a popular choice among dessert lovers.

Homemade Cherry Poke Cake with Pudding

Difficulty: Easy

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Break Time: 2 hours

Vegetarian

Cuisine: American

Ingredients for Homemade Cherry Poke Cake with Pudding:

• Cake:
  • 1 box of white or yellow cake mix (approximately 15.25 ounces)
  • Ingredients needed for cake mix (usually eggs, oil, water)
  • 1 cup cherry pie filling (for layers and holes)
• Cherry pudding layer For:
  • 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 1 1/2 cups cold milk
  • 1/2 cup cherry juice (saved from cherry pie filling)
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (adds flavor)
• For the topping:
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup powdered sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Additional cherry pie filling for topping (optional)
  • Sliced ​​almonds or for garnish Maraschino Cherries (Optional)
• Ingredient Substitutions:
  • If you don’t have cherries, you can use fresh or frozen cherries for the
  • pie filling. Core it, chop it, and cook it with a little sugar until it releases its juice and thickens a bit.
  • If desired, you can replace the cherry juice in the pudding layer with water, but the taste may change slightly.
  • You can omit the almond extract if needed or if you have a nut allergy. For a different flavor profile, you can substitute 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Cooking Guidelines: Homemade Cherry Poke Cake with Pudding

• Directions:
  • Specify oven Preheat to temperature. cake mix box.
  • Grease a 9-by-13-inch baking dish or pan.
• Preparations:
  • Prepare cake batter according to package instructions.
  • Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, making sure to distribute it evenly.Bake the cake according to package instructions. Place a toothpick in the center to test for doneness. After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool slightly.
  • While the cake is cooling, make the pudding. In a medium bowl, combine instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until smooth and thick. Follow the instructions on the package.
  • If the cake has cooled slightly but is still warm, use the edge of a wooden spoon or chopstick to poke holes in the cake about 1 inch apart.
  • Pour the prepared pudding over the warm cake, filling the holes and spreading it evenly over the surface.
  • Next, spoon the cherry pie filling over the pudding layer and spread it out evenly.
  • In a separate bowl, mix the cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
  • Spread the whipped cream over the cherry cake filling layer so that the cake is completely covered.
  • Optionally, decorate the cake with fresh cherries.
  • Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to cool and set before serving.
  • Slice the Cherry Poke Cake and serve cold. enjoy!
• Critical Points:
  • Be careful not to bake for too long so the cake stays moist and soft.
  • Let the cake cool slightly before adding the pudding layer to avoid it becoming too soggy.
  • Place the cake in the refrigerator for the specified time to allow the layers to set properly before serving.

Kitchen Tools and Equipment: Cherry Poke Cake

• 1. Mixing Bowl: Used to mix cake mix, pudding mix, and other ingredients.
• 2. Electric mixer or whisk: Mix cake batter or pudding thoroughly.
• 3. 9×13 inch baking pan: For baking cakes.
• 4. Cooking spray or parchment paper: Grease the baking dish with oil to prevent sticking.
• 5. Wooden skewer or fork: Used to poke holes in the baked cake.
• 6. Measuring cup/measuring spoon: For accurately measuring the amount of ingredients.
• 7. Cooking pot: For preparing cherry pie filling.
• 8. Rubber spatula or spoon: Used to stir and spread cake batter, pudding, and cherry filling.
• 9. Cooling rack: Cool the cake before adding the pudding and cherry filling.
• 10. Refrigerator: Chill the cake and set the pudding and cherry topping.
• 11. Cake server or spatula: Used to serve portions of the finished cake.

Tips for perfecting the flavor of your homemade cherry poke cake with custard:

• 1. Quality ingredients: Start with fresh, high-quality ingredients, especially when it comes to cherries. For the best flavor, choose ripe, juicy cherries or a high-quality cherry pie filling.
• 2. Enhance cherry flavor: If using canned cherry pie filling, consider adding cherry juice or 1 teaspoon cherry extract to intensify the cherry flavor.
• 3. Punch holes strategically: When punching holes in the cake, make sure the holes are evenly spaced all the way through the cake. This allows the pudding mixture to penetrate and infuses each bite with flavor.
• 4. Choose a complementary pudding: Choose a pudding flavor that complements the cherry. For example, vanilla or white chocolate. This adds depth to the overall flavor profile without overpowering the cherry flavor.
• 5. Mix the pudding correctly: When preparing the pudding mix, follow the instructions carefully to achieve the correct consistency. Use cold milk to get a smooth and creamy consistency.
• 6. Layering Technique: Layer cherry pie filling or sliced ​​cherries on top of the cake before pouring the pudding mixture over it. This imparts a strong cherry flavor throughout the cake.
• 7. Cool completely: Chill the cake in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to mix and the pudding to firm up.
• 8. Decorate wisely: Garnish your cake with fresh cherries, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings to add flavor and visual interest.
• 9. Serve at the correct temperature: Before serving, let the cake come to room temperature for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to fully develop and the texture to soften slightly.
• 10. Experiment with toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings like toasted almonds, shredded coconut, or cherry syrup to add texture and flavor complexity.

Service Suggestions: Cherry Poke Cake

• Presentation:
  • 1. First, cut the cherry poke cake into equal pieces to expose the delicious cake and pudding layers.
  • 2. Carefully transfer each slice to an individual dessert plate, being careful not to damage the layers.
  • 3. If desired, drizzle a little cherry syrup over each slice for added flavor and presentation.
  • 4. Dust the top of each slice with powdered sugar, if desired, for added elegance.
• Garnish:
  • 1. Garnish each slice with a fresh cherry or several cherry slices for added color and freshness.
  • 2. To enhance the sweetness of the cake, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side.
• Sides:
  • 1. Pair cherry poke cake with vanilla ice cream for a classic and delicious dessert experience.
  • 2. Enjoy with hot coffee or tea to bring out the sweetness of the cake.
  • 3. For a more elaborate presentation, add fresh berries such as strawberries or raspberries to the sides of the cake for a fun flavor contrast.
• Final touches:
  • 1. Before serving, make sure the plates are clean and wipe up any spills or stains to ensure a sparkling presentation.
  • 2. Consider adding a few cherries to the decorative plate or garnishing with a sprig of mint.
  • 3. Encourage guests to savor each bite slowly so that the flavor of the cherry poke cake can fully delight their taste buds.

Storage and Reheating: Cherry Poke Cake

• 1. Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely at room temperature before storing. By doing this, the cake won’t get soggy from condensation building up within the storage container.
• 2. Cover: Once the cake has cooled, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Make sure the cover is tightly closed to prevent air from getting in and drying out the cake.
• 3. Refrigerate: Store cakes that contain perishable ingredients such as pudding or whipped cream in the refrigerator. This will help maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. Cake can be stored in the refrigerator for usually 3-4 days.
• 4. Freezing (optional): If you have a large amount of cake left over or want to extend its shelf life, you can freeze it. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. If stored properly, the cake will keep in the freezer for 1-2 months. To thaw, simply place the wrapped cake in the refrigerator to thaw overnight.
• 5. Reheating: If you want the cake to stay warm, you can reheat individual slices in the microwave on medium power for about 20 to 30 seconds. Alternatively, place the slices on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated 175°C (350°F) oven for 5 to 10 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition information for Cherry Poke Cake with Pudding (1 serving):

• Calories: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Fat: Around 10-15 grams
• Protein: Approximately 3-5 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1-2 grams
• These values ​​are Please note that , may vary depending on the specific ingredients and serving sizes used in the recipe.

Health Benefits of Homemade Cherry Poke Cake and Pudding

• 1. Antioxidant-rich cherries: Cherries, the main ingredient in this cake, are rich in antioxidants such as anthocyanins and quercetin. These compounds help fight oxidative stress in the body, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and certain cancers.
• 2. Fortified with Vitamin C: Cherries are also a good source of vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports immune function and skin health. Eating a slice of cherry pie increases your daily intake of vitamin C and strengthens your overall immune system.
• 3. All Ingredients: If you want to make cherry poke cake at home, you can use healthy ingredients like whole wheat flour, eggs, and milk. Whole wheat flour contains dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
• 4. Moderate Sugar Content: This cake does contain sugar, but homemade versions often give you better control over how much you add. Moderate sugar intake maintains stable energy levels and reduces the risk of dental problems and weight gain associated with excessive sugar intake.
• 5. Portion Control: Eating desserts like Cherry Poke Cake in moderation can help you control portions, prevent binge eating, and promote mindful eating habits. Enjoying smaller portions allows you to satisfy your cravings without compromising your overall meal.
• 6. High-quality ingredients: Homemade cakes generally use higher-quality ingredients and avoid preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors compared to store-bought alternatives. Choosing healthy ingredients allows you to nourish your body with real, nutritious foods.
• 7. Mood-boosting effect: Treating yourself to a piece of cherry cake can lift your mood thanks to its mild and satisfying taste. Enjoying small pleasures, such as dessert, contributes to overall mental well-being and reduced stress.

DIY vs. Professional Bakery: Cherry Poke Cake

DIY (Do-It-Yourself): Cherry Poke Cake

• Advantages:
  • 1. Customization: DIY gives you complete control over the ingredients and allows you to tailor the cake to your exact taste preferences. To adapt. You can adjust the sweetness, sourness, and texture to your liking.
  • 2. Cost-effective: Making cherry poke cake at home is generally cost-effective because you can purchase ingredients in bulk and avoid the labor costs of a professional bakery.
  • 3. Family Bonding: Baking together is a great bonding activity for family and friends. We provide an opportunity to share experiences and create beautiful memories.
• Disadvantages:
  • 1. Time consuming: Making cherry poke cake from scratch takes time and effort. From making the dough, baking the cake, making the pudding, and assembling the layers, it can be a labor-intensive process.
  • 2. Required Skills: A certain level of baking knowledge may be required to achieve bakery quality results. If you have no experience making bread, the product may not meet your expectations in terms of appearance and taste.
  • 3. Required Equipment: You will need basic baking tools and equipment such as mixing bowls, cake pans, and ovens, which are not available to everyone.
• Budget considerations:
  • DIY: DIY may be more cost-effective in terms of material costs, but you should consider the value of your time and the cost of any specialized equipment you may need to purchase. It is important.

Professional Bakery: Cherry Poke Cake

• Advantages:
  • 1. Expertise and Consistency: Professional Bakery has experienced pastry chefs who have experience in preparing delicious desserts. They have perfected their recipes and techniques to ensure a consistently high quality product.
  • 2. Convenience: Choosing a professional bakery will save you time and effort. You can easily order and receive your finished cake without the hassle of shopping, baking, and cleaning up.
  • 3. Presentation: Bakery-made cherry poke cakes often have a professional presentation with intricate decorations and perfect layers, making them visually appealing for special occasions.
• Disadvantages:
  • 1. Limited customization options: Some bakeries may have limited customization options, but you won’t have the same level of control over ingredients and flavors as DIY. This can be a disadvantage if you have certain dietary restrictions or preferences.
  • 2. Higher costs: Professional baked goods tend to be more expensive due to labor and overhead costs. If you’re on a tight budget, shopping at a bakery may not be the most economical choice.
  • 3. Dependencies: If you depend on a bakery for your cherry poke cake, it depends on their availability and schedule. If you need a cake for a last-minute event, you may not be able to order it on time.
• Budget considerations:
  • Professional bakeries: Bakery prices vary depending on the size, complexity, and reputation of the business. Carefully consider your budget and research pricing options before ordering.

Budget-friendly options: Cherry Poke Cake

• Easy decoration:
  • Use powdered sugar: Dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar for a classic, elegant look It will be.
  • Fresh Cherry Garnish: Top cakes with fresh cherries or cherry slices to add color and freshness.
  • Sprinkle Decoration: Add a festive touch to your cake with colorful sprinkles and edible glitter.
• Budget-Friendly Ingredients:
  • Store Brand Cake Mix: To save money without sacrificing taste, choose a store brand cake mix instead of a premium brand.
  • Canned cherries: Substitute cherries in syrup for fresh cherries to reduce costs while maintaining great flavor.
  • Instant Pudding Mix: For stuffing, choose an affordable instant pudding mix that is convenient and budget-friendly.
• Creative Twist:
  • Infuse Flavor: Try adding a little almond extract or amaretto to your cake batter for a subtle twist on the classic cherry flavor.
  • Layered Presentation: Instead of a traditional single layer cake, you can also stack multiple cake layers with custard and cherry filling in between to create a multi-layer poke cake.
  • Mini Poke Cakes: Create individual mini poke cakes by filling a muffin tin with cake batter and baking. Perfect for adjusting portion sizes or easily serving at gatherings.
• Decorating DIY Details:
  • Homemade Whipped Cream: Whip your own whipped cream with cream and powdered sugar to cover the cake and add a homemade touch without breaking the bank.
  • Chocolate shavings: Use a vegetable peeler to make chocolate shavings from inexpensive chocolate bars and sprinkle them on top of cakes for a sophisticated finish.
  • Cookie Crumble Topping: Crumble a store-bought cookie, such as a vanilla wafer or chocolate sandwich cookie, and sprinkle the crumbs over the cake to add texture and flavor.

Variations of Homemade Cherry Poke Cake with Custard:

• Chocolate Cherry Delight: Instead of vanilla pudding, try chocolate pudding for a rich and decadent twist. You can also add chocolate shavings on top for even more fun.
• Cherry Almond Bliss: Add almond extract to the cake batter and top the pudding with sliced ​​almonds for a delicious flavor combination.
• Cherry Cheesecake Fusion: Stir softened cream cheese into pudding mixture, then spread over cake. Make a cheesecake-like treat by topping it with cherry pie filling and plenty of whipped cream.
• Cherry Coconut Dream: Mix grated coconut into the cake batter and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes over the pudding for a tropical touch.
• Cherry Lemonade Surprise: Squeeze lemon juice and zest into cake batter to add a refreshing citrus flavor. Garnishing the pudding with lemon zest gives it an extra sparkle.
• Cherry Chocolate Chip Extravaganza: Stir mini chocolate chips into cake batter before baking and enjoy a delicious chocolate surprise in every bite. If you want to make it even more indulgent, top it with cherry pie filling and chocolate syrup.
• Cherry Lime Infusion: Add lime juice and zest to the cake batter for a tangy touch. Add lime zest and a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the pudding for a citrusy flavor.
• Cherry Nut Crunch: Mix chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) into cake batter to add texture and crunch. For a nutty finish, sprinkle more chopped nuts over the pudding.
• Cherry Berry Blast: Mix fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, etc.) into the pudding to add a fruity flavor. Top with fresh berries for a colorful and refreshing dessert.
• How to enjoy cherry caramel: Drizzle caramel sauce over the cake before spreading the pudding layer. Top with cherry pie filling and sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt for a sweet-salty flavor.

Why Stands Out: Cherry Poke Cake

• Decadent Moisture: The cake is infused with delicious cherry syrup that permeates each crumb, making every bite moist and bursting with fruity flavor.
• Creamy taste: The addition of pudding creates a creamy layer between the cake and topping, creating a luxurious contrast to the lightness of the cake.
• Brilliant visuals: With the bright red tones of the cherries and the glossy luster of the pudding, this dessert is a feast for the eyes and captivates all who see it.
• Versatility: Although cherries are the star of this recipe, the custard poke cake concept opens the door to endless flavor variations to suit different tastes and occasions.
• Nostalgic Appeal: Reminiscent of childhood desserts and potlucks, this cake has a nostalgic appeal that evokes fond memories and a sense of comfort.
• Easy to prepare: Despite its impressive appearance and complex taste, this cake is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it easy for both experienced bakers and beginners to make.
• A crowd favorite: Whether it’s a family dinner or a festive occasion, this cake is sure to impress, get rave reviews, and make you want to eat it for seconds.
• Customizable: From the type of cake you use as a base to your choice of pudding flavors, toppings, and garnishes, this recipe is highly customizable, allowing for creative expression in the kitchen.
• Simplicity meets elegance: A perfect balance between simplicity and elegance, showing that sometimes the most memorable desserts come from humble beginnings.
• Attractive Taste: What ultimately sets this cake apart is its enticing taste. A harmonious symphony of sweet cherries, velvety pudding and delicate cakes will make your taste buds dance with joy.

Vegan and Gluten-Free: Cherry Poke Cake

• Ingredients:
  • For the cake:
    • 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
    • 1 cup almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
    • 1 cup granules Sugar
    • 1/3 cup vegetable oil
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
    • 1 cup vegan cherry pie filling
  • For the pudding:
    • Almonds 2 cups milk (or other plant-based milk)
    • 1/4 cup cornstarch
    • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For topping:
    • 1 cup whipped coconut 1 cup cream (or other Vegan Whipped Cream Substitute)
    • Fresh cherries for garnish (optional)
• Directions:
  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Coat a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with oil and flour.
  • In a large mixing bowl, stir together the almond milk, sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  • In a separate bowl, combine gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until everything is well mixed.
  • Mix apple cider vinegar until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
  • Evenly spread out the batter after pouring it onto the baking sheet that has been ready.
  • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  • While the cake is baking, prepare the pudding. Stir almond milk, cornstarch, sugar, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Stirring continually, cook the mixture until it thickens and gently boils.
  • After taking the pudding off of the stove, whisk in the vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
  • When the cake is finished baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
  • Use the handle of a wooden spoon or chopsticks to poke holes in the surface of the cake.
  • Pour the cherry pie filling over the pie, spreading it evenly and filling the holes.
  • Pour the pudding over the cherry cake and spread it evenly with a spatula.
  • Place the cake in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or until the pudding is set.
  • Spread coconut whipped cream on top of the cake before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh cherries if desired.
  • Slice and serve chilled. Enjoy our vegan and gluten-free homemade cherry pie and pudding.

Homemade Cherry Poke Cake with Custard Recipe Notes:

• History and Cultural Significance: Poke cakes originated in the United States in the 1970s and became widely popular due to their simplicity and versatility. It is a popular dessert in American culture, often served at potlucks, picnics, and family gatherings.
• Ingredient Substitutions: This recipe uses cherry pie filling, but you can experiment with other fruit fillings like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a unique twist. Additionally, you can customize the taste according to your preference using different flavored pudding mixes.
• Choosing the right cake mix: Choose a white or yellow cake mix as the base for this recipe. These flavors perfectly complement the cherry and custard layers. If you prefer homemade cake, you can use your favorite white or yellow cake recipe instead of cake mix.
• Carefully poke holes: When making holes in the cake, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to make holes evenly spaced. Be careful not to pierce the cake all the way. Make sure it gets about three-quarters of the way through the cake so the custard can soak into the cake without making it soggy.
• Cool: After pouring the pudding mixture over the cake, refrigerate for at least a few hours or overnight. This will allow the pudding to set and infuse the cake with flavor, creating a moist and delicious dessert.
• Creative garnishes: Make a special treat by garnishing the cake with fresh cherries, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings before serving. You can also sprinkle some crushed nuts or coconut flakes on top for more texture and flavor.
• Make ahead: This cake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before serving. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld and time has passed.
• Personal Details: Add your own personal touches to this recipe, like adding a little almond extract to the cake batter for a nutty touch, or mixing chopped nuts into the pudding mix for an extra crunch. Please feel free to add. rent.

FAQ:

• What is cherry poke cake?
• Cherry poke cake is a delicious dessert made by punching holes in a baked cake and filling the holes with a cherry-flavored mixture (usually gelatin or custard) to create a moist, flavorful treat.

• How to make homemade cherry pie?
• To make homemade cherry cake, first bake the cake according to your favorite recipe or use a cake mix. Once the cake is baked and cooled, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface. Prepare cherry-flavored gelatin or pudding according to package directions and pour over cake to soak into holes. Refrigerate until cake is set, then top with whipped cream or frosting and, if desired, a cherry.

• Can I use fresh cherries in my cherry poke cake?
• Yes, you can use fresh cherries to enhance the flavor of cherry pie. Pit the fresh cherries, cut them into small pieces and mix them into the gelatin or pudding mixture before pouring them over the cake. This adds freshness and natural sweetness to the dessert.

• How long should cherry poke cake be chilled before serving?
• After pouring the cherry gelatin or pudding over the cake, it is best to refrigerate the cake for at least 2 to 3 hours, or until the gelatin or pudding has set. is. This cooling time allows the flavors to meld and the cake stays moist and delicious.

• Can I bake the cherry poke cake in advance?
• Yes, you can make Cherry Poke Cake in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to eat it. In fact, by making it ahead of time, the flavors will infuse even more, resulting in a more delicious dessert. Simply cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh, and add toppings and garnishes just before serving for optimal presentation.

In summary, Homemade Cherry Poke Cake with Custard offers a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. The moist cake base is drenched in cherry syrup and filled with creamy custard, giving you a symphony of sweetness with every bite. The bright red cherries add a refreshing touch and complement the rich flavor of the dessert. This homemade treat is not only easy to make, but also a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for any occasion or gathering.