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Funfetti birthday poke cake makes every celebration brighter with colorful bursts of sprinkles and rich vanilla pudding nestled in every bite. It is the ultimate easy crowd-pleaser that comes together quickly yet always feels special on the dessert table.
My nephew chose this cake for his fifth birthday and I have baked it for nearly every family birthday since. The pudding keeps it incredibly tender and everyone loves the cheerful sprinkles.
Ingredients
- Vanilla cake mix: boxed makes preparation speedy and ensures a lighter crumb look for brands with fewer additives for a more authentic vanilla flavor
- Vanilla instant pudding: brings creamy moisture use a classic brand for best texture
- Milk: whole milk will create the richest result but low fat works as well I like to bring it to room temperature for smoother mixing
- Frozen whipped topping: adds a fluffy finish thaw it fully in the fridge so it spreads without tearing the cake
- Rainbow sprinkles: for vibrant color and crunch check their ingredient list to avoid brands with artificial aftertaste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare and Bake the Cake:
- Preheat your oven and mix the cake as directed on the box briefly beat until just smooth before folding in the sprinkles to keep the colors from streaking Carefully pour the batter into a greased 9x13 pan and bake just until the top springs back Cool the cake completely to avoid melting the filling
- Make the Holes:
- Once cool use the end of a thick wooden spoon or similar tool to poke deep holes all over the cake Each hole should be about half an inch wide and spaced all over the surface This helps the pudding soak in for extra moistness
- Fill with Pudding:
- Whisk together one box of pudding with one and a half cups of milk until it thickens but remains pourable Using a piping bag or a small spoon fill every hole with pudding to make sure each bite is creamy Spread any leftover pudding in a thin layer over the top
- Mix and Add the Whipped Topping:
- Whisk the remaining pudding mix with the final cup of milk until beginning to thicken and then gently fold in all the whipped topping Do not overmix or it will deflate The topping should look light and cloudlike Spread it evenly over the whole cake
- Decorate and Chill:
- Scatter plenty of extra rainbow sprinkles generously on top of the whipped layer Refrigerate the finished cake for at least thirty minutes or until the pudding is well set for the cleanest slices
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My favorite part is always adding more sprinkles over the top and seeing my family’s faces light up The pudding makes the cake so soft that it never lasts long especially after birthday candles have been blown out
Storage Tips
Leftover cake stays fresh if covered tightly and kept cold for up to five days The texture is best on day two after the pudding sets in fully For longer storage slice and wrap pieces individually and freeze for up to three months Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use homemade vanilla cake if you prefer Scratch cake is especially nice if you want a denser bite For a fun twist switch the vanilla pudding for cheesecake or white chocolate flavors Dairy free milk and coconut whipped topping work for an allergy friendly take but may set slightly softer
Serving Suggestions
Slice in neat squares with a sharp knife that you wipe clean between cuts I love serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for double birthday joy Add candles for celebrations or top with even more sprinkles or crushed cookies for extra flair
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The Origin of Poke Cake
Poke cake first became popular in American kitchens during the seventies thanks to clever ads that highlighted how quick box mixes and instant pudding could become something fresh and exciting Over time funfetti versions took over birthdays and potlucks turning a classic technique into a festive treat for all ages
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of cake mix should I use?
A vanilla cake mix works best for this dessert, providing a light flavor base for sprinkles and pudding. You may also substitute a white cake mix if preferred.
- → How do I get the pudding into the cake?
Once cooled, poke holes across the surface using a spoon handle. Pipe or spoon runny pudding directly into the holes for a moist, flavorful center.
- → Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, this cake benefits from time in the refrigerator. Prepare a day ahead so the pudding sets and flavors mature for the best texture.
- → Can I customize the sprinkles and pudding flavor?
Absolutely! Experiment with your favorite pudding varieties and different sprinkle blends to suit any celebration or personal taste.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Keep leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze individual pieces for future enjoyment.
- → Is it possible to prepare this without boxed cake mix?
Certainly. Substitute your preferred homemade vanilla cake, baking in a 9x13 pan before proceeding with the poke and filling steps.