If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines festive cheer with irresistible indulgence, this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe is your new holiday hero. Imagine a moist, vibrant red velvet cake dotted with pockets of creamy sweetened condensed milk and rich hot fudge, all topped with fluffy whipped topping, delicate white chocolate chips, and colorful sprinkles. It’s a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. This dessert not only looks stunning on any holiday table but also brings warmth and excitement with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a key role: from the vibrant red velvet cake base that brings a hint of cocoa and stunning color, to the luscious condensed milk and fudge that soak into the cake, creating unexpected bursts of sweetness and texture.
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box): The foundation for our festive cake that delivers moistness and that signature red hue.
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk: Adds creamy sweetness that seeps into every hole for delightful pockets of flavor.
- 1 (12 oz) jar hot fudge sauce: Brings rich, chocolatey goodness that turns this cake into pure decadence.
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed: For a light, airy finish that balances the richness.
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips: Tiny melts of sweetness adding texture and a touch of elegance.
- Sprinkles, for garnish: Bright, festive finishing touches that make this cake perfect for Christmas celebrations.
How to Make Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
Step 1: Bake the Red Velvet Cake
Start by preparing your red velvet cake according to the box instructions. This ensures a moist and perfectly textured base. Bake as directed, allowing your kitchen to fill with that classic, inviting aroma of chocolate and red velvet together.
Step 2: Poke Holes While Still Warm
Once out of the oven, let the cake cool for about 10 minutes—just enough so it’s not too hot but still warm. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the surface of the cake. This step creates little wells that will later soak up the delicious sweetened condensed milk, ensuring every bite is rich and moist.
Step 3: Pour Sweetened Condensed Milk
Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, making sure to fill each of those holes created in the previous step. This step is what transforms the cake into a luscious, almost creamy dessert that melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Add the Warmed Hot Fudge Sauce
Heat your hot fudge sauce briefly in the microwave—about 30 seconds—to make it easier to spread. Pour the smooth, warm fudge evenly over the cake, letting it mingle with the condensed milk. This layer adds intense chocolate flavor and a glossy, decadent finish.
Step 5: Chill and Let the Flavors Meld
Pop your cake into the refrigerator for at least two hours. This resting time is essential as it allows the sweetened condensed milk and fudge to soak deeply into the cake, enhancing every bite with rich, gooey luxury.
Step 6: Top With Whipped Topping, White Chocolate, and Sprinkles
Just before serving, spread a generous layer of whipped topping to add a creamy, airy contrast to the dense, rich cake below. Sprinkle white chocolate chips for a delightful bite-sized sweetness and finish with colorful sprinkles to give it that unmistakable Christmas sparkle.
How to Serve Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
Garnishes
While the classic topping of whipped cream, white chocolate chips, and sprinkles is timeless and festive, you can also get creative by adding fresh raspberries or a sprinkle of crushed peppermint to amplify the holiday vibe. These garnishes add freshness and a hint of color that will wow your guests.
Side Dishes
This poke cake pairs beautifully with simple sides like a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of crème fraîche to balance its richness. For a warm contrast, serve alongside a cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation is everything! Serve this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe in a clear glass baking dish to showcase its gorgeous layers, or slice it into squares and plate with a drizzle of extra hot fudge and a sprig of fresh mint for a restaurant-quality touch at your holiday feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your festive feast, cover any leftover cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, maintaining its moisture and flavor without drying out.
Freezing
If you want to extend the life of your poke cake, freezing is an option. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. For best taste, consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
Reheating
Since this is a chilled dessert, reheating is generally not recommended as it’s best enjoyed cold to appreciate the textures. If you prefer it slightly warmer, bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
FAQs
Can I make this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe from scratch?
Absolutely! While the boxed cake mix is convenient, you can bake your own red velvet cake from scratch for a more homemade touch. Just be sure it’s moist and sturdy enough to hold the poke and fillings.
What if I don’t like hot fudge sauce?
You can swap the hot fudge with caramel sauce, white chocolate ganache, or even a cream cheese glaze to customize the flavor while keeping the cake moist and decadent.
How long does it take to prepare this poke cake?
This recipe is surprisingly quick. Prep time is around 15 minutes, bake time about 25 minutes, and then a couple of hours chilling. It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert for busy holiday days.
Can I use fresh whipped cream instead of whipped topping?
Definitely! Freshly whipped cream adds a lovely homemade touch and can be flavored with a hint of vanilla or almond extract to complement the cake beautifully.
Is this cake suitable for Christmas parties?
This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe is ideal for parties! It serves 12 generously, looks festive, and offers a fun twist on traditional red velvet cake that guests will love.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe enough for your holiday celebrations. It’s easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and brings that special festive magic to the table. Once you try it, this cake might just become your annual holiday tradition—so gather your ingredients, have fun making it, and get ready to wow your family and friends!
Print
Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Christmas Red Velvet Poke Cake is a festive and indulgent dessert featuring a moist red velvet cake infused with sweetened condensed milk and rich hot fudge sauce. Topped with fluffy whipped topping, white chocolate chips, and colorful sprinkles, this poke cake is perfect for holiday celebrations and easy to prepare using a boxed cake mix.
Ingredients
Red Velvet Cake
- 1 box red velvet cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
Filling & Topping
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) jar hot fudge sauce
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping, thawed
- 1/2 cup white chocolate chips
- Sprinkles, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat the oven and prepare the red velvet cake according to the package instructions. Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and bake for about 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Poke Holes: After baking, allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the warm cake to allow the filling to seep in.
- Add Sweetened Condensed Milk: Pour the entire can of sweetened condensed milk evenly over the poked cake, ensuring the liquid fills each hole to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Apply Hot Fudge Sauce: Warm the hot fudge sauce in the microwave for 30 seconds to make it easier to spread. Pour it over the cake and spread evenly with a spatula to cover the cake’s surface.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to let the condensed milk and fudge sauce soak into the cake holes, delivering a creamy and rich texture.
- Decorate and Serve: Before serving, top the chilled cake with whipped topping, sprinkle white chocolate chips evenly, and add festive sprinkles for a colorful, holiday-ready finish.
Notes
- For best results, allow the cake to cool slightly but remain warm when poking holes so the fillings soak in better.
- You can substitute the whipped topping with freshly whipped heavy cream for a less processed option.
- Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator; this cake is best enjoyed within 3 days.
- Feel free to add additional decorations like crushed candy canes for extra holiday flair.
- If you prefer a stronger chocolate flavor, use homemade hot fudge sauce instead of store-bought.
