Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Name: Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box red velvet cake mix; Ingredients needed to make the cake: eggs, oil, and water; 2 (3.4 ounce) boxes instant vanilla pudding mix; 4 cups milk; 8 ounce tub whipped topping; Green gel food coloring; Red and white Christmas sprinkles

Author: Samantha Reed

Published: December 8, 2025

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Introduction to Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

As the holidays approach, the hustle and bustle can become overwhelming. I know firsthand how busy life can get while trying to juggle work, family, and festive preparations. That’s why I absolutely adore this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a delightful way to spread joy and warm smiles. With its vibrant red hue and creamy texture, this dish will surely impress your loved ones and leave them asking for more. Plus, it’s a quick solution that lets you enjoy the season without all the stress. Let’s dive into this festive treat!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is the perfect blend of ease and flavor. In just a few simple steps, you can create a dessert that looks stunning and tastes divine. It’s like wrapping your holiday spirit in a slice of cake! With its velvety texture and sweet vanilla pudding, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. Plus, it lets you spend more time with loved ones and less time in the kitchen!

Ingredients for Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Creating this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is both fun and rewarding! Here’s what you’ll need:

Red Velvet Cake Mix: The heart of this dessert, its vibrant color and rich flavor set the festive tone.
Eggs, Oil, and Water: These ingredients bring moisture and richness to the cake, helping it rise beautifully.

Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix: This quick mix adds a creamy layer of sweetness that pools in the cake’s poke holes.
Milk: Essential for making the pudding. You can use whole milk for creaminess or lower-fat versions if desired.

Whipped Topping: This fluffy ingredient crowns the cake, offering a light and airy finish. Feel free to use a dairy-free version if needed!
Green Gel Food Coloring: A holiday favorite! A couple of drops will help achieve that perfect festive green to dollop on top.
Red and White Christmas Sprinkles: These sprinkle delights not only enhance presentation but add a touch of holiday cheer.

For exact quantities, don’t forget to check the bottom of the article where you can find a handy printable version!

How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Making this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is a joyous journey! Each step brings you closer to a delightful dessert that adds a spark to your holiday celebrations. Let’s walk through this together, one simple step at a time.

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Cake

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grab your red velvet cake mix and prepare it as instructed on the box. It’s like a dance party—just follow the rhythm! Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until it’s fluffy and firmly set, about 30 minutes.

Step 2: Poke Holes in the Cake

Once your cake cools slightly, it’s time for a little poke action! Use the handle of a wooden spoon to make holes all over the cake, about an inch apart. This step is crucial—the holes are what make the cake a poke cake, inviting the luscious pudding in for a cozy embrace.

Step 3: Make the Pudding

In a large bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and milk until it’s smooth and creamy. It’s akin to creating a lovely cloud of sweetness! Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens, adding to the anticipation.

Step 4: Pour the Pudding

This is the fun part! Pour the thickened pudding over the cake, focusing on filling those delightful holes. Don’t worry if some pudding spills over the edges. It’s all part of its charming personality! Use the back of a spoon to gently nudge the pudding deeper into the cake.

Step 5: Chill the Cake

Now, cover your cake with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge for about two hours. This chilling time allows the pudding to meld perfectly with the cake, creating a deliciously moist treat. You deserve a break during this, too, so sit back and relax!

Step 6: Prepare the Topping

While you wait, let’s elevate that cake with a dreamy topping. In a medium bowl, stir the whipped topping with a few drops of green gel food coloring. Go ahead and mix until you achieve the festive shade you desire. This will create a visually appealing contrast with the red velvet!

Step 7: Spread the Topping

After the cake has chilled, carefully spread the whipped topping over the cooled cake. Use a spatula to ensure even coverage. It’s like slathering on holiday cheer! The topping adds that delicious finishing touch to your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake.

Step 8: Final Chill

Place the cake back into the fridge and let it chill for another couple of hours. This allows the whipped topping to firm up nicely. Trust me, the wait is worth it! You can think of this cake as getting cozy with a nice warm blanket.

Step 9: Serve with Sprinkles

When you’re ready to serve, sprinkle the red and white Christmas sprinkles over the top for that sparkle! Slice into this festive masterpiece, and watch the smiles spread around the table. This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake isn’t just dessert; it’s a memory-making treat!

Tips for Success

Always let the cake cool completely before adding pudding and topping to avoid a soggy mess.

Use high-quality food coloring for vibrant and appealing colors.
If you’re short on time, prepare the cake a day in advance and chill overnight.
For a lighter version, consider using sugar-free pudding and reduced-fat whipped topping.
Feel free to personalize the cake with seasonal decorations!

Equipment Needed

Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for mixing the cake and pudding. A sturdy glass or plastic bowl works perfectly.

Whisk: Essential for combining the pudding. A fork can also do the trick in a pinch!
Baking Pan: Use a 9×13 inch pan for baking. If you don’t have one, a round cake pan will suffice.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for poking the holes in the cake. A skewer or the handle of a large spoon works, too.

Plastic Wrap: For covering the cake while it chills. Aluminum foil can be a great substitute!

Variations on Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Chocolate Pudding Swap: For a twist, replace the vanilla pudding with chocolate pudding. This adds a rich, decadent layer that pairs beautifully with the red velvet.
Dairy-Free Option: Use almond, coconut, or oat milk along with dairy-free whipped topping and pudding mix for a delicious vegan-friendly dessert.

Layered Poke Cake: Create layers by using a round cake pan. Stack two layers of red velvet, with pudding and whipped topping in between. It looks stunning and adds depth!
Nutty Surprise: Fold in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the whipped topping. This gives a delightful crunch that contrasts the soft cake.
Cream Cheese Topping: For an extra tangy flavor, blend cream cheese with your whipped topping for the ultimate indulgent finish.

Serving Suggestions for Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Pair with Hot Cocoa: This cake pairs perfectly with a warm cup of hot chocolate for a cozy treat.
Seasonal Fruits: Fresh berries or citrus slices provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cake.
Festive Platter: Present the cake on a beautiful holiday-themed platter for an elegant touch.

Nutmeg Cream: Top individual slices with a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon for extra holiday flair.
Ice Cream Scoop: A scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside brings a delightful creaminess to each bite.

FAQs about Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake

Can I make this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake ahead of time? Absolutely! This cake can be prepared a day in advance, making it ideal for busy holiday schedules. Just be sure to cover it well in the fridge!

What can I use instead of red velvet cake mix? If you’re feeling adventurous, you can make your own red velvet cake from scratch. Just combine cocoa powder with all-purpose flour, sugar, and buttermilk to mimic that classic flavor.

Can I substitute the pudding mix? Yes! Feel free to use any flavored instant pudding mix you like. Chocolate pudding would create a decadent twist, while banana pudding would lend a delightful surprise.

How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep your Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake fresh for a few days!

Is this cake suitable for freezing? Yes, you can freeze the cake! Just make sure to wrap individual slices well in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving to enjoy its moistness.

Final Thoughts

Creating this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is more than just a baking project; it’s an invitation to make heartfelt memories during the holiday season. Each slice tells a story, spreading joy around your dinner table. The vibrant colors, creamy layers, and festive sprinkles embody the spirit of Christmas. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to engage your family in the kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or celebrating with loved ones, this cake adds a touch of magic to every occasion. So, roll up your sleeves and embrace the delight of festive baking!