What exactly is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a type of cake where holes are poked into the baked cake, and a liquid (like gelatin, pudding, or condensed milk) is poured over to soak in, making the cake incredibly moist and flavorful throughout.

Can I prepare Lemon Poke Cake in advance?

Absolutely! Lemon Poke Cake is an excellent make-ahead dessert. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day as the lemon gelatin has more time to fully infuse the cake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days.

How should I store leftover Lemon Poke Cake?

To keep your Lemon Poke Cake fresh and moist, store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The chilling helps maintain the cake's texture and refreshing flavor.

What makes this Lemon Poke Cake so moist?

The secret to its incredible moisture lies in the 'poke' method! Pouring the lemon gelatin mixture into the holes allows it to penetrate deep into the cake, keeping every bite wonderfully tender and juicy.

Zesty & Moist Lemon Poke Cake: The Ultimate Spring Dessert!

Name: Zesty & Moist Lemon Poke Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: PT-489170H39M7S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (15.25 ounce) box lemon cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box: eggs, oil, water); 1 (3 ounce) package lemon-flavored gelatin; 1 cup boiling water; 1/2 cup cold water; 8 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed; Fresh lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Description

A vibrant and refreshing dessert featuring a lemon-infused cake with a creamy, dreamy whipped topping, perfect for spring.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (15.25 ounce) box lemon cake mix (plus ingredients called for on box: eggs, oil, water)
1 (3 ounce) package lemon-flavored gelatin
1 cup boiling water
1/2 cup cold water
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 (8 ounce) container frozen whipped topping, thawed
Fresh lemon zest for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the cake according to package directions in a 9x13 inch baking pan. Let cool for 15 minutes.
Step 2: While the cake cools, dissolve the lemon gelatin in 1 cup boiling water in a medium bowl. Stir until completely dissolved, then add 1/2 cup cold water and stir.
Step 3: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes evenly over the top of the warm cake, about 1 inch apart.
Step 4: Carefully pour the gelatin mixture over the entire cake, ensuring it seeps into all the holes. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled and the gelatin has set.
Step 5: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until smooth and creamy. Beat in the vanilla extract.
Step 6: Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until well combined and smooth.
Step 7: Spread the cream cheese topping evenly over the chilled cake. Garnish with fresh lemon zest if desired.
Step 8: Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy your zesty and moist Lemon Poke Cake!

Notes

For an extra burst of lemon, add 1-2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to the cream cheese topping mixture. Ensure cake is fully chilled before adding frosting for best results.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking, No-bake topping
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 35g
Sodium: 350mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 50mg