Red White and Blue Cheesecake Poke Cake

Sharing is caring!

This Red White and Blue Cheesecake Poke Cake is a stunning dessert that’s perfect for summer gatherings, barbecue parties, or festive celebrations like the Fourth of July. With layers of moist yellow cake, creamy cheesecake filling, and topped with vibrant strawberries and blueberries, it’s as delicious as it is visually appealing. This simple yet impressive cake is sure to be the centerpiece of your dessert table.

The beauty of this poke cake lies in its ability to captivate your guests’ hearts while being incredibly straightforward to prepare. In just a few steps, you’ll turn a classic yellow cake mix into a creamy, fruity dream that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a must-try!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Red White and Blue Cheesecake Poke Cake offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. The fluffy yellow cake serves as the perfect base for the rich cheesecake layer. By poking holes in the cake and allowing the filling to seep into every bite, you create a dessert that is bursting with moisture and flavor. Topped with fresh strawberries and blueberries, it not only looks beautiful but also provides the fresh taste of summer. Ideal for any occasion, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

• 1 (15.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix
• Ingredients listed on the cake mix package (usually water, oil, and eggs)
• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp fresh lemon zest
• 1 tsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cups Homemade Cool Whip (or store-bought if preferred)
• 1 pint strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 pint blueberries

How To Make Red White and Blue Cheesecake Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Yellow Cake

Begin by preheating your oven to the temperature specified on the cake mix box. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking dish. In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix with water, oil, and eggs according to the package instructions. Mix until well combined and smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for the time recommended on the package or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan.

Step 2: Make the Cheesecake Filling

While the cake cools, it’s time to prepare the cheesecake filling. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gradually add in the sweetened condensed milk, mixing until well combined. Then, fold in the vanilla extract, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Mix until everything is well combined and you have a luscious cheesecake filling.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

Once the cooled cake is ready, take a wooden spoon or a skewer and poke holes all over the surface of the cake, about an inch apart. Ensure not to poke all the way through to the bottom, just enough to create pockets for the filling.

Step 4: Fill with Cheesecake Mixture

Pour the cheesecake filling over the poked cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Make sure the filling seeps into the holes, ensuring that every bite will be full of flavor. Cover the cake with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours to chill and set.

Step 5: Top with Cool Whip and Berries

After the cheesecake filling has set, remove the cake from the refrigerator. Spread the Homemade Cool Whip over the top of the cake, smoothing it out into an even layer. Now it’s time to decorate! Arrange the hulled and sliced strawberries in rows on one side of the cake and scatter the blueberries on the other side to create a beautiful red, white, and blue presentation.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. Watch as your guests delight in their first bite, surrounded by the festive colors reminiscent of a summer celebration!

Expert Tips

• Ensure that your cream cheese is at room temperature to prevent lumps in the cheesecake filling.
• Consider adding a layer of fruit preserves under the Cool Whip for an extra burst of fruit flavor.
• For added flavor, you can mix in a teaspoon of almond extract into the cheesecake filling.
• Let the cake chill overnight for even better flavor and texture before serving.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the yellow cake for a lemon or white cake for a different flavor profile.
• Use raspberries instead of blueberries for a different berry experience.
• Add a layer of crushed graham crackers on top of the Cool Whip for a cheesecake crust crunch.
• Drizzle some chocolate syrup over the Cool Whip for a delightful chocolate contrast.

How to Store Leftovers

This Red White and Blue Cheesecake Poke Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just be sure to cover it well to keep the Cool Whip from losing its firmness. Be aware that the cake may become a bit soggier over time as it sits, so it’s best enjoyed within a couple of days for optimal texture.

FAQ

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Yes! You can certainly use chocolate, lemon, or even a strawberry cake mix to customize your dessert according to your taste preferences.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors meld beautifully overnight.

Is there a non-dairy option for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream or whipped coconut for the Cool Whip for a non-dairy version.

How can I add more fruit flavor to the cake?

You can mix pureed strawberries or blueberries into the cheesecake filling or substitute half of the sweetened condensed milk with fruit puree for added fruity sweetness.

Conclusion

The Red White and Blue Cheesecake Poke Cake is an irresistible dessert that brings together the best of summer fruits and a creamy cheese filling, all atop a soft, moist cake. This recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also adds a pop of color to your table, making any occasion special. So why not give this delicious cake a try? With its ease of preparation and delightful flavors, you’re sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy making this festive dessert, and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire!