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Have you ever wondered how to make a cake that’s not only delicious but also fun and colorful for Easter? Imagine slicing into a moist, fluffy cake and discovering vibrant pastel colors inside, bursting with flavor! That’s exactly what an Easter Poke Cake is all about. This easy and festive dessert will brighten up your Easter table and impress your family and friends. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple, quick, and absolutely delightful!

What Makes Easter Poke Cake Special?

The Easter Poke Cake is a light and fluffy cake filled with sweet, colorful pudding that seeps into every bite. Topped with a luscious whipped cream layer and festive Easter decorations, it’s the perfect combination of fun, flavor, and texture.

Time Requirement: Ready in about 1 hour (including cooling time).
Difficulty Level: Super easy! If you can bake a cake and poke holes, you can make this recipe.
Perfect for: Easter parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.

Easter Poke Cake recipe — picture of a hommade Easter Poke Cake

Essential Ingredients

To make this delightful cake, you’ll need:

Cake Base

1 box of white or yellow cake mix – The perfect base for absorbing flavors.
Eggs, oil, and water – As directed on the cake mix box.

Filling

1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding – Creates a creamy and colorful filling.
2 cups milk – To mix with the pudding.
Food coloring (pastel colors: pink, blue, yellow, purple) – Adds Easter charm.

Topping

1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip) – Light and fluffy topping.
Easter sprinkles, mini chocolate eggs, or coconut flakes – For decoration.

Substitutions & Variations:

Swap vanilla pudding for lemon or coconut pudding for a tangy twist.
Use cream cheese frosting instead of whipped topping for a richer flavor.
Replace food coloring with fruit purees (strawberry, blueberry) for a natural touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions.
Pour the batter into the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool for 10-15 minutes before moving to the next step.

2. Poke and Fill the Cake

Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
Prepare the pudding by whisking instant vanilla pudding mix with milk until smooth.
Divide the pudding into 4 bowls and add a few drops of food coloring to each.
Spoon the colored pudding into the holes, alternating colors for a beautiful effect.

3. Add the Topping and Decorations

Spread whipped topping evenly over the cake.
Sprinkle with Easter-themed decorations like pastel sprinkles, mini chocolate eggs, or shredded coconut dyed green (to resemble grass).
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the pudding set.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Make the cake a day in advance for the best texture and flavor.
Avoid freezing, as the pudding may change texture.

Recipe Variations

Chocolate Lover’s Easter Poke Cake: Use chocolate cake mix with chocolate pudding.
Berry Bliss Easter Cake: Use strawberry or raspberry pudding for a fruity flavor.
Coconut Cream Delight: Swap vanilla pudding for coconut pudding and top with toasted coconut flakes.

Conclusion

Easter Poke Cake is a fun, colorful, and delicious dessert that’s easy to make and perfect for celebrating the holiday. Whether you stick to the classic version or try a creative variation, this cake will be a showstopper at your Easter gathering. So, grab your ingredients and start baking—your family and friends will love every bite!

FAQs

1. What is the traditional cake eaten at Easter?

One of the most traditional Easter cakes is Simnel Cake, a fruitcake topped with marzipan, historically associated with the holiday.

2. What should be eaten on Easter Sunday?

Common Easter Sunday meals include roast lamb, ham, hot cross buns, deviled eggs, and carrot cake.

3. What is the most popular Easter sweet?

Chocolate eggs and marshmallow Peeps are among the most popular Easter treats.

4. What is the Easter candy called?

Easter candies include Cadbury Eggs, Peeps, Reese’s Eggs, and Jelly Beans.