Easter poke cake recipe. It’s light, colorful, and made for spring. With soft cake, creamy filling, and a whipped topping, this dessert brings simple joy without any fuss.
I’m Edward Hale, raised in Texas kitchens and shaped by the lessons of my grandmother. She taught me that food made with care always stands out. That mindset lives on in every recipe I share.
The easter poke cake recipe is all about easy steps and bold results. Swirl pastel batter, bake, poke, fill with pudding, and finish with cream. No stress. Just flavor and fun.
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels fresh, looks great, and serves up easily, the easter poke cake recipe checks every box. It’s the kind of dish you’ll come back to every spring.
Table of Contents
The Magic of Easter Poke Cake
Why Easter Desserts Matter
In spring, food lightens up. People gather with fresh flowers on the table, soft pastels all around, and something sweet waiting by the coffee pot. This is when dessert shines.
The easter poke cake recipe captures everything Easter desserts are known for—color, ease, and joy. It’s not heavy or fussy. It feels like sunshine on a plate. Families love it. Kids dive into it. Guests ask for seconds. That’s what makes it special.
What Makes This Cake Special
It’s simple but exciting. You start with a boxed white cake mix, divide the batter, add soft spring colors, and swirl it into something beautiful. After baking, you poke the cake all over and pour in creamy white chocolate pudding.
With each bite, the pudding blends right in, making the cake extra moist and indulgent. After a short time in the fridge, it’s ready to be crowned with whipped cream and, if you like, a handful of sprinkles or festive candy eggs. It’s light, cold, sweet, and beautiful.
Anyone can make this cake, and it always delivers. That’s why it keeps showing up in kitchens across America every Easter.
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Easter Poke Cake Recipe: The Most Colorful & Easy Dessert
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
A colorful, chilled spring dessert made with cake mix, pudding, and whipped topping. The Easter poke cake recipe is easy to prep, fun to decorate, and perfect for make-ahead entertaining.
Ingredients
1 box white cake mix
Ingredients as listed on box (eggs, oil, water)
2 boxes (3.3 oz) instant white chocolate pudding
3 ½ cups whole milk
2 cups heavy cream
¼ cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pink, green, blue, and yellow food coloring
Optional: sprinkles or candy for topping
Instructions
Preheat oven as directed on the cake mix box. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
Prepare cake batter according to box instructions. Divide into 4 bowls. Add a different food color to each.
Spoon colored batter randomly into the baking dish. Lightly swirl with a toothpick.
Bake according to the box directions. Let cool for 10 minutes.
Gently press the handle of a wooden spoon into the cake, making evenly spaced holes across the top.
Mix pudding with milk in a bowl until smooth. Pour evenly over the cake, filling the holes. Chill 30 minutes.
Whip the cream together with powdered sugar and a splash of vanilla until it becomes thick and forms sturdy, airy peaks. Spread over the chilled cake.
Top with sprinkles or decorations if desired. Chill again before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 30 mins
- Category: Dessert
What Is a Poke Cake ?
The Vintage Charm of Poke Cake
Poke cake has been a classic in American kitchens since the 1970s. It started with a simple idea. First, you bake the cake, then gently pierce it all over and let a luscious filling soak into every gap. That filling soaks into the cake, making every bite moist and full of flavor.
The easter poke cake recipe builds on that tradition. Instead of using Jello, we use white chocolate pudding. It adds a rich, creamy texture and deep flavor, all without any extra hassle.
Why This Method Still Works
Poke cakes are practical. They’re easy to make, easy to serve, and always taste fresh. The holes let the filling settle in without making the cake soggy. The topping keeps it cool and light.
This style of cake isn’t about looks alone. It’s about making something simple that turns out right every single time. That’s why it continues to work in home kitchens today.
Don’t miss our beef steak with mashed potatoes recipe for a satisfying main to pair with dessert.
Ingredients for the Perfect Easter Poke Cake Recipe
Simple Pantry Staples That Deliver Big Flavor
The beauty of this easter poke cake recipe is how little it asks from you. The ingredients are basic, but the result feels special. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 box of white cake mix
- The ingredients called for on the cake mix box, like eggs, oil, and water, are all you’ll need to get started.
- 2 boxes (3.3 oz each) of instant white chocolate pudding
- 3 1/2 cups whole milk
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pink, green, blue, and yellow food coloring
You likely have most of these ingredients waiting in your kitchen, either in the pantry or the fridge.
The Role Each Ingredient Plays
White cake mix creates a soft, airy base that soaks up flavor beautifully. Divide the batter, mix in a few drops of food coloring, and just like that, a simple cake transforms into a colorful springtime centerpiece.
The pudding adds richness and moisture. The filling soaks into every hole, forming a smooth, chilled layer under the light and airy whipped topping.
The whipped cream isn’t from a can here. You make it yourself. Just heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla. Beat it until stiff peaks form. It’s light, but it holds up on top of the cake.
The food coloring gives it the Easter touch. You control how soft or bold the colors are. This part makes the cake fun to prepare and beautiful to serve.
Don’t miss our teres major steak recipe for a flavorful protein to complete your spring spread.
How to Make Easter Poke Cake Step-by-Step
Mixing and Coloring the Batter
Heat your oven as directed on the cake mix box. Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish and set it aside for later
Make the cake batter using the instructions on the box. Once smooth, divide it into four small bowls. Add a few drops of food coloring to each one. Choose soft spring tones like pastel pink, light green, sky blue, and warm yellow for a cheerful touch. Stir gently until the colors are even.
Drop spoonfuls of each colored batter in random spots across the baking dish. Don’t worry about patterns. Just get it in there. Tap the pan lightly to even it out. For a marbled design, lightly drag a toothpick through the top of the batter just once or twice. Take care not to swirl too much, so the colors remain bright and clearly defined.
Follow the baking time listed on the cake mix box to bake your cake just right. When a toothpick comes out clean, it’s done. Let the cake rest for 10 minutes.
Creating Clean Swirls and Poking the Cake
For smooth color swirls, don’t overwork the batter. Just a couple of gentle swirls across the top will do the trick.
After the cake cools, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a thick straw to gently poke holes all over the top. Space them about an inch apart. Go about halfway down, not all the way through. These little pockets will catch and hold the pudding you’ll pour in next.
Let the cake cool completely before you add the filling.
Looking for inspiration? Try our instant pot corned beef as a savory pairing for your spring celebration.
Filling the Cake with White Chocolate Pudding
How to Make the Pudding Smooth and Flavorful
Now that your cake has cooled and is full of neat, even holes, it’s time to make the filling. Grab a mixing bowl and pour in both boxes of instant white chocolate pudding. Add 3 and a half cups of cold whole milk. Whisk it right away. Don’t wait, or the pudding will start to set unevenly.
Whisk until the mixture is smooth and creamy with no lumps. It should still be pourable. If it thickens too fast, give it a few firm stirs to loosen it up. This step matters. You want the pudding just thick enough to cling, but not so set that it won’t fill those cake holes.
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Pouring and Spreading the Pudding
Take your time here. Slowly pour the pudding over the top of the cake, aiming to fill each hole as you go. Use a rubber spatula or the back of a spoon to gently spread it. Don’t press hard. Let the pudding settle into the holes naturally.
Once all the pudding is poured, smooth out the top. It should look even and feel a little glossy. Any leftover pudding can be spread across the surface to seal in extra flavor.
Now slide the whole cake into the fridge. Give it about 30 minutes. That chill time helps the pudding set inside the cake and locks in that creamy texture.
This step is where the easter poke cake recipe really starts to come together. You’re building layers of flavor without doing anything complicated. Just steady hands and a little patience.
Check out our firecracker steak and shrimp if you want to balance dessert with something bold on the savory side.
Finishing Touch – Homemade Whipped Cream Layer
Making the Cream from Scratch, the Right Way
This is where the easter poke cake recipe gets its final texture. You’ve built the base and packed it with flavor. Now it’s time to give it a cool, creamy finish.
Grab a chilled bowl. Pour in two cups of heavy cream, cold straight from the fridge. Add a splash of vanilla extract, just enough to warm up the flavor, and a few spoonfuls of powdered sugar to sweeten it gently. Begin whipping on low speed, then turn it up as the cream starts to thicken.
You’re looking for structure, not stiffness. You want the cream to hold soft peaks. That’s when it stands up but still bends a little at the tip. If you mix it too much, the texture will turn stiff instead of staying smooth and spreadable, so take it easy.
When the whipped cream looks ready, give it a final fold with a spatula. That clears any streaks and gives it a glossy finish without knocking out the air you just built in.
Topping the Cake Without Overdoing It
Take your cooled cake out of the fridge. It should feel set and firm, ready for the last step. Drop the whipped cream on top in big spoonfuls. Grab an offset spatula or the back of a spoon, and gently spread the mixture all the way to the edges. No need to press, just guide it across.
What makes this step in the Easter poke cake recipe stand out is how easygoing and foolproof it is. Don’t worry if the top isn’t flawless, the delicious layers underneath will do all the talking. For a festive finish, sprinkle the top with colored sugar, crumbled meringue, or pastel candy bits. that little extra crunch on top contrasts the soft cream underneath.
Keep it simple, but let it look festive. Once finished, place the cake back in the fridge. Letting it sit for at least another 30 minutes brings everything together.
This cake always cuts clean and holds its shape, thanks to that final chilled layer of cream. That’s why the easter poke cake recipe earns its place on any spring table. Every bite brings soft cake, rich filling, and that cool, whipped top that finishes it just right.
Check out our teres major steak recipe if you want a hearty main dish to match your elegant dessert.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
How Far Ahead Can You Make This Cake?
One of the best things about the easter poke cake recipe is how well it holds up in the fridge. You can prepare the entire cake a full day before serving, and it actually tastes better the next day. The pudding sets deeper into the cake, the flavors blend, and the whipped topping firms up just enough to slice cleanly.
If you’re prepping for a busy holiday, this recipe takes some pressure off. Just make sure the cake is covered tightly. A layer of plastic wrap works, but press it gently against the whipped cream to avoid air pockets. ant to keep your cake at its best? Just tuck it into a cake box with a tight-fitting lid. It’ll stay fresh, neat, and ready to impress.
How to Store Leftovers the Right Way
After serving, if you have any leftovers, keep them chilled. The easter poke cake recipe does not do well sitting out at room temperature for long periods. It’s made to stay cool and moist. Store individual slices in airtight containers, or keep the whole tray sealed in the fridge.
This dessert stays fresh for up to four days. After that, the whipped cream can start to lose structure, and the pudding may soften the cake too much. Still edible, just not as crisp and clean as those first couple of days.
If you’re taking the cake to a gathering, place it in a cooler bag with ice packs. Keep it out of the sun, and it’ll hold its shape until it’s time to serve. The texture, temperature, and flavor are what make the easter poke cake recipe shine, so treat it like the cool dessert it is.
Serving Ideas for Spring Occasions
Not Just for Easter: When to Serve It
The easter poke cake recipe may have Easter in its name, but don’t box it into one weekend. This dessert works anywhere you want color, freshness, and a little joy on the plate.
It’s perfect for spring birthdays, baby showers, garden parties, or weekend brunch. The soft pastels and creamy texture make it feel right at home with fresh flowers and light dishes. Serve it after grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or anything that leans into spring ingredients. The contrast between a savory main and a chilled, colorful cake hits just right.
Bring it to potlucks or family dinners, especially when you want to offer something easy to slice and easy to carry. The easter poke cake recipe travels well once it’s chilled and covered. If you’re hosting, cut it ahead of time and set it out on a tray with a few fresh berries or mint leaves on the side.
Plating Like a Pro
This cake doesn’t need much to look beautiful, but a little extra care goes a long way. Wipe your knife between cuts for clean slices. Use a pie server or offset spatula to lift each piece without crushing it.
If you want to elevate the plate, lay down a drizzle of raspberry sauce or a light dusting of powdered sugar. Serve it on white or pastel plates to make those colors pop.
The easter poke cake recipe brings color, flavor, and comfort to the table. You don’t need to overthink it. Just cut a slice, keep it cool, and let the cake speak for itself.
Try something unexpected for the main course, like our picanha steak guide for a balanced and memorable spring menu.
Easter Poke Cake Recipe Variations
Simple Ideas for Kids and Families
To make the easter poke cake recipe even more fun for kids, use candy toppings they can help add. Think crushed cookies, mini marshmallows, or pastel sprinkles. Swap out plain whipped cream for a whipped cream and cream cheese blend if you want a richer, tangy layer.
You can also serve the cake in cups instead of slices. Layer the colorful cake, pudding, and topping into clear cups for easy grab-and-go portions.
Small Batch or Lighter Options
If you’re not feeding a crowd, cut the ingredients in half and bake in an 8-inch square pan. You get the same great result in a smaller size.
Want a lighter version? Use sugar-free pudding and a light whipped topping. It still delivers the texture without all the richness.
Dairy-Free Adjustments
For a dairy-free twist on the easter poke cake recipe, choose plant-based pudding mix and whip up a coconut milk topping. The flavor changes slightly, but the cake still holds its color and charm.
This recipe is flexible. You can adjust it without losing what makes it special: bright colors, soft texture, and a cool, creamy finish.
Conclusion
The easter poke cake recipe is easy to make, fun to serve, and always brings a little color to the table. It’s light, chilled, and full of flavor without being complicated.
You don’t need fancy tools or training. Just mix, swirl, poke, and chill. That’s what makes the easter poke cake recipe perfect for busy kitchens and spring get-togethers.
It’s flexible too. Switch colors, change toppings, or keep it classic. No matter what, the easter poke cake recipe holds its charm.
If you’re after a dessert that looks good, tastes better, and never overcomplicates things, the easter poke cake recipe delivers every time.
Frequently Asked Questions About easter poke cake recipe
What cake is traditionally eaten at Easter?
Different families serve different cakes, but carrot cake is probably the most traditional. Its earthy sweetness and rich cream cheese frosting feel right at home on a spring table. Still, a colorful and chilled option like the easter poke cake recipe brings something playful and fresh, especially for those looking for something less heavy.
Is it okay to prepare this cake a day in advance?
Absolutely. The easter poke cake recipe is actually better when made ahead. After chilling, the pudding settles in, the flavors blend, and the whipped topping firms up just enough. It cuts easier the next day, and the texture becomes even more enjoyable.
When is the best time to poke the cake?
Wait until the cake has cooled slightly. It should still be warm, but not hot enough to steam. If you poke it too early, it may tear. Too late, and it won’t absorb well. Using a wooden spoon handle works great for this Easter poke cake. It makes just the right-sized holes, spaced evenly so the filling seeps in beautifully.
Does poke cake turn soggy after a while?
Not if it’s made and stored correctly. Chill it well, keep it covered, and serve within two or three days. The layers stay firm, moist, and full of flavor without falling apart. The structure of the easter poke cake recipe holds up beautifully with just the right balance of moisture and chill time.
