Why make this recipe

Pumpkin Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the warm flavors of fall with a fun and easy poke cake concept. It’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply to enjoy at home. The moist pumpkin cake, combined with a sweet, creamy topping, makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. This recipe is also simple to make, using common ingredients you might already have in your pantry, which makes it an accessible choice for anyone looking to bake something special.

How to make Pumpkin Poke Cake

Ingredients:

• 1 can Pumpkin (canned)
• 3 large Eggs
• 1/2 tsp ground Cinnamon
• 1 cup Nuts or chocolate chips
• 1 box Spice cake mix
• 1 container Whipped Topping
• 1/4 cup Vegetable oil
• 1 can sweetened Condensed milk
• 1/2 cup Heavy cream
• 1 cup Water

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the pumpkin, eggs, vegetable oil, and water until well combined.
3. Add the spice cake mix and cinnamon, stirring until smooth.
4. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
7. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly all over the cake.
8. In a separate bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk and heavy cream, and pour over the cake, making sure to fill the holes.
9. Let the cake sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight.
10. Before serving, top with whipped topping and sprinkle with nuts or chocolate chips.

How to serve Pumpkin Poke Cake

Pumpkin Poke Cake can be served as a dessert at any meal. Cut it into squares and place them on dessert plates. It’s best enjoyed chilled, with the cool whipped topping contrasting nicely with the moist cake. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

How to store Pumpkin Poke Cake

To store Pumpkin Poke Cake, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, you can freeze individual pieces. Just make sure to wrap them tightly.

Tips to make Pumpkin Poke Cake

• Make sure to use canned pumpkin and not pumpkin pie filling, as they have different flavors and sweetness levels.
• To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the batter.
• Use a large baking dish to ensure even cooking and easier poking of holes.
• Allow the cake to chill for longer if you want it to absorb more of the creamy filling.

Variation

You can easily switch up the flavors by using other cake mixes, like chocolate or vanilla, and adjusting the toppings accordingly. You could also add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade pumpkin puree instead of canned?
Yes, homemade pumpkin puree works well too! Just ensure it is well-drained to avoid a watery cake.

2. How long does the cake need to cool before I poke it?
Let the cake cool for about 10 minutes before poking holes in it. This helps to prevent the filling from running off the sides.

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free spice cake mix in this recipe to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.