There’s something magical about a cake that’s moist, sweet, and irresistible—enter the Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert is not only easy to make with a simple box cake mix, but it’s also perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a little midweek treat. Soft, tender cake infused with a sweet topping and crowned with rich cream cheese frosting makes this recipe an instant favorite. You’ll feel like a dessert pro without spending hours in the kitchen.
Recipe Info
| Category | Dessert |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Servings | 12 |
| Calories | 350 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 box (18 oz) red velvet cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 (8 oz) container cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2–3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup milk (as needed for frosting consistency)
- Optional: sprinkles or red velvet crumbs for topping
Step‑By‑Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cake batter by combining the red velvet cake mix, eggs, water, vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in a large bowl. Mix until smooth.
- Bake the cake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- Poke the cake using the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork, making holes all over the cake’s surface.
- Optional soak: Pour 1/2 cup of sweetened condensed milk or a mixture of milk and vanilla over the poked holes to make the cake extra moist.
- Make the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Adjust consistency with milk until fluffy.
- Frost the cake generously with cream cheese frosting, spreading it evenly across the top.
- Garnish with sprinkles or reserved cake crumbs if desired. Chill for 30 minutes before serving for best results.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Room temperature ingredients help the batter and frosting come together smoothly.
- Storage: Keep the cake covered in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for extra softness.
- Make-ahead tip: The cake can be baked a day in advance; just frost before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Chocolate Red Velvet Poke Cake – add a drizzle of chocolate ganache over the frosting.
- Berry Poke Cake – fill the holes with raspberry or strawberry jam before frosting.
- Lower Sugar Version – use a sugar-free box cake mix and powdered sugar substitute in frosting.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh berries.
- Perfect for celebrations, afternoon tea, or a cozy dessert night at home.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like the joy of sharing a homemade dessert, and this Easy Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to bring smiles. Soft, sweet, and effortlessly impressive, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Grab a fork, enjoy a slice, and savor every bite with your loved ones!