Description
Discover the ultimate Cranberry Poke Cake recipe! A moist, flavorful cake infused with tangy cranberry sauce, perfect for holidays.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Cake Base:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- A pinch of salt
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh cranberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon orange zest (optional)
Optional Toppings:
- Whipped cream
- Crushed nuts (e.g., pecans or walnuts)
- White chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Preparing the Cake Base:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Making the Cranberry Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens (about 10 minutes).
- Add orange zest for a hint of citrus flavor.
- Let the sauce cool slightly before use.
- Assembling the Poke Cake:
- Allow the cake to cool for 10-15 minutes after baking.
- Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly across the cake.
- Pour the warm cranberry sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes.
- Let the cake rest until the sauce is fully absorbed.
- Adding the Toppings:
- Once the cake is completely cool, spread a layer of whipped cream or frosting on top.
- Sprinkle crushed nuts or white chocolate shavings for added flair.
Notes
- Choose a Different Cake Base:
- Vanilla Cake: A classic choice that lets the cranberry flavor shine.
- Chocolate Cake: For a rich and decadent twist.
- Spice Cake: Add warmth and depth with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.
- Alternative Fillings:
- Substitute cranberry sauce with raspberry, blueberry, or mixed berry compote for variety.
- Add a layer of cream cheese filling to enhance the richness.
- Unique Toppings:
- Experiment with flavored whipped cream, such as cinnamon or maple.
- Top with caramel drizzle or a sprinkle of sea salt for a sweet-salty combo.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 30 min