Caramel Cream Poke Cake

If you’re looking for a dessert that will impress at any gathering, look no further than this rich and indulgent Caramel Cream Poke Cake. This cake combines the moistness of a classic yellow cake with layers of sweet caramel and fluffy whipped topping, creating a treat that’s simply irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just a sweet evening at home, this cake is sure to delight your taste buds and leave your guests asking for seconds!

What Makes This Recipe Special

There’s something magical about poke cakes that makes them incredibly delightful. This Caramel Cream Poke Cake stands out due to its generous infusion of caramel into every slice, ensuring that each bite is an explosion of flavor. The combination of the soft cake, creamy topping, and luscious caramel sauce creates a satisfying texture contrast that is hard to resist. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make, making it a go-to recipe for busy bakers.

Ingredient Breakdown

To create this heavenly Caramel Cream Poke Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 – 16.50-ounce box yellow cake mix (I used Duncan Hines; feel free to use a homemade version for a personal touch)
• 1 cup heavy cream (for a rich, creamy texture)
• 6 ounces caramel sundae topping (about half of a 12-ounce jar, adjust to taste)
• 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed (I opted for fat-free, but you can use regular)
• ¾ cup salted caramel sauce (for drizzling over the top, homemade or store-bought)

Hardware & Gadgets

To make your Caramel Cream Poke Cake a success, you will need the following kitchen tools:

• 9×13-inch baking pan (for baking and serving)
• Mixing bowls (for combining ingredients)
• Electric mixer (to whip the cream and mix the cake batter)
• Toothpick or skewer (to poke holes in the cake)
• Spatula (for spreading the whipped topping)

Caramel Cream Poke Cake — Do This Next

Follow these simple steps to create your Caramel Cream Poke Cake:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with the ingredients listed on the box (usually water, eggs, and oil). Mix until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake according to the package instructions, typically around 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

Once the cake has cooled for about 10 minutes, use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Be generous with the holes – this is where the caramel will seep in!

Step 4: Infuse with Caramel

Drizzle the caramel sundae topping evenly over the poked cake, allowing it to fill the holes. Let the cake cool completely before proceeding.

Step 5: Add Whipped Topping

In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until blended. Spread this creamy mixture over the cooled cake, covering it evenly.

Step 6: Drizzle with Salted Caramel Sauce

Finally, drizzle the salted caramel sauce over the top of the whipped cream layer. Feel free to get creative with your drizzle pattern!

Step 7: Chill Before Serving

For the best flavor and texture, refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Fit It to Your Goals

If you want to customize your Caramel Cream Poke Cake, consider these ideas:

• Gluten-Free Version: Substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free blend.
• Lower Calorie Option: Use a sugar-free cake mix and whipped topping.
• Add Ins: Toss in some chopped pecans or chocolate chips for extra texture.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with chocolate cake mix or add a touch of vanilla extract to the cream.

Problems & Prevention

While making your Caramel Cream Poke Cake, keep these common issues in mind to ensure success:

• Cake Sticking: Always grease your baking pan well to prevent the cake from sticking.
• Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix your cake batter, which can lead to a dense cake.
• Dry Cake: Check your cake a few minutes before the recommended bake time to avoid overbaking.
• Uneven Caramel Distribution: When poking holes, make sure they are evenly spaced to allow the caramel to soak in properly.

Prep Ahead & Store

To make your baking process smoother, consider these tips for prepping ahead and storing your Caramel Cream Poke Cake:

The cake can be baked a day in advance. Once it has cooled and you’ve added the caramel and whipped topping, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, for the best texture and flavor, I recommend enjoying it within the first two days. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator, and make sure to cover them to keep the moisture in.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use homemade caramel sauce instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel sauce adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your sweetness preference. Just make sure it’s thick enough to drizzle.

How can I make a dairy-free version of this cake?

To make a dairy-free Caramel Cream Poke Cake, use a dairy-free cake mix, coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and a non-dairy whipped topping. Ensure that the caramel sauce is also dairy-free.

Can I freeze the Caramel Cream Poke Cake?

While you can freeze the cake without the whipped topping, it’s best to freeze it without the cream layer. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Allow it to thaw in the refrigerator before adding the whipped topping.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the experience by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of coffee for a perfect dessert pairing.

Explore More

If this Caramel Cream Poke Cake has whetted your appetite for more delicious treats, check out these recipes:

• Sally’s Chocolate Cupcakes
• Pinch of Yum’s Creamy Tuscan Chicken
• Minimalist Baker’s Simple Vegan Banana Bread
• Sally’s Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the details, it’s time to dive into the kitchen and create this scrumptious Caramel Cream Poke Cake. With its rich flavors and creamy textures, it’s bound to be a hit at your next gathering. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy the delightful process of baking. Happy cooking!