Hawaiian Poke Cake

A Hawaiian Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that brings a taste of the tropics to your table. This cake is perfect for various occasions, from summer barbecues to birthday parties. Its moist vanilla base, soaked in creamy banana pudding and topped with crushed pineapple and whipped cream, offers a refreshing twist on traditional cake. Each bite is a burst of flavor, making it a favorite among friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Hawaiian Poke Cake comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy bakers.
• Deliciously Moist: The combination of banana pudding and crushed pineapple ensures every slice is incredibly moist.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any celebration or as a sweet treat after dinner, this cake suits any occasion.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare it in advance; just chill it overnight for the best flavor.
• Tropical Flavor: With its fruity toppings and creamy layers, this cake transports you straight to paradise.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Wooden spoon
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13-inch baking dish: The perfect size for this poke cake allows even baking and easy serving.
• Electric mixer: Makes mixing batter quick and effortless, ensuring smooth consistency.
• Spatula: Helps in spreading toppings evenly across the cake without messing up the layers.

Ingredients

A moist vanilla cake soaked with banana pudding, topped with crushed pineapple and fluffy whipped cream – tropical flavor in every bite!

Ingredients:
– 1 box French vanilla cake mix
– 3 large eggs, at room temperature
– 1 cup whole milk
– ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons sour cream
– 2 boxes (3.4 ounce each) banana cream instant pudding
– 3 cups cold whole milk
– 1 can (20 ounce) crushed pineapple in its juice
– 1 tub (8 ounce) whipped topping, thawed
– Fresh pineapple chunks for garnish (optional)
– Toasted coconut flakes for garnish (optional)

How to Make Hawaiian Poke Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Heat your oven to 350°F. Grab a 9×13-inch baking dish and give it a good spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a large bowl, mix together the French vanilla cake mix, eggs, whole milk, melted butter, and sour cream. Beat with an electric mixer for about 2 minutes until everything’s well combined. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish.

Step 3: Bake the Cake

Slide the cake into the oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. The cake is done when it springs back when touched or when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool for about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Create Holes in the Cake

While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake in rows. Ensure that the holes are deep enough for the pudding to seep into.

Step 5: Prepare Banana Pudding Mixture

In a separate bowl, whisk together the banana pudding mix, cold milk, and 1 cup of crushed pineapple along with its juice until it starts to thicken.

Step 6: Fill Holes with Pudding Mixture

Pour the pudding mixture over the warm cake, making sure it fills all those holes you’ve made. Use a spatula to spread any remaining pudding evenly across the top of the cake.

Step 7: Add Pineapple Topping

Drain any excess juice from the remaining crushed pineapple. Spread this over the layer of pudding on top of your cake.

Step 8: Finish with Whipped Topping

Spread whipped topping evenly over everything. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least four hours or overnight—let it chill for maximum flavor!

Step 9: Serve Chilled

Cut into squares and serve chilled. If you’re feeling fancy, consider topping each piece with fresh pineapple chunks and toasted coconut flakes for extra flair!

How to Serve Hawaiian Poke Cake

Hawaiian Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that offers a burst of tropical flavors. It is perfect for gatherings, parties, or simply as a treat for your family. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your experience.

Individual Portions

• Serve in small cups or bowls for personal servings. This makes it easy for guests to grab and enjoy without the need for slicing.

Tropical Fruit Garnish

• Top each slice with fresh fruit, like slices of kiwi or mango. This adds vibrant colors and a refreshing taste that complements the cake perfectly.

Toasted Coconut Topping

• Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top before serving. This adds a crunchy texture and enhances the tropical flavor profile of the Hawaiian Poke Cake.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla or coconut ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream pairs beautifully with the moist cake and pudding layers.

Drizzled Sauce

• Add a drizzle of caramel or chocolate sauce over each piece. This sweet touch can elevate the dessert experience even further.

Festive Platter Presentation

• Arrange slices on a colorful platter with additional tropical fruits around them. This eye-catching display will impress your guests at any gathering.

How to Perfect Hawaiian Poke Cake

To ensure your Hawaiian Poke Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use room temperature ingredients – Allow eggs and milk to sit out for about 30 minutes before mixing. This helps create a smoother batter and better texture.

• Poke holes evenly – Make sure to space the holes properly so that the pudding can seep in uniformly throughout the cake, enhancing each bite.

• Chill adequately – Letting the cake chill in the fridge for at least 4 hours allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Overnight chilling is even better!

• Customize garnishes – Feel free to get creative with toppings! Fresh fruits, nuts, or even chocolate shavings can personalize your cake and make it special.

• Serve cold – This dessert is best enjoyed chilled. Serving it cold enhances its refreshing qualities, making it perfect for warm days.

• Store properly – Keep any leftovers covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. It should last for up to three days if stored correctly.

Best Side Dishes for Hawaiian Poke Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Hawaiian Poke Cake can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Grilled Pineapple Skewers – Sweet, caramelized pineapple pieces add a delicious contrast and enhance the tropical theme.

2. Coconut Rice – Fluffy rice cooked with coconut milk provides a creamy base that complements the cake’s flavors beautifully.

3. Tropical Salad – A mix of greens topped with mango, avocado, and lime dressing creates a fresh counterpoint to the sweet dessert.

4. Shrimp Tacos – Lightly seasoned shrimp wrapped in soft tortillas bring savory elements that balance the sweetness of the poke cake.

5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dessert nicely.

6. Fruit Salsa – A fresh fruit salsa made with berries, citrus, and mint offers a refreshing bite that pairs well with Hawaiian flavors.

7. Cheese Platter – A selection of cheeses provides an elegant touch and variety that complements both sweet and savory tastes in your meal.

8. Lemonade or Iced Tea – Refreshing beverages like lemonade or iced tea round out your meal perfectly, keeping everything light and enjoyable.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Hawaiian Poke Cake, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes and how you can avoid them:

• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Not poking enough holes: If the holes are too shallow or infrequent, the pudding won’t soak through properly. Make sure to poke plenty of deep holes all over the cake.
• Using warm pudding: Pouring warm pudding over the cake can make it soggy instead of allowing it to set. Always let the pudding mixture cool slightly before pouring it on.
• Skipping refrigeration time: Not chilling the cake long enough means the flavors won’t meld as well. Aim for at least four hours, but overnight is best!
• Ignoring personal touches: While this recipe is delicious as written, don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite toppings or flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Hawaiian Poke Cake

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• This cake can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Hawaiian Poke Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Warm individual pieces for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 15-20 seconds for a quick warm-up.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet on low heat. Cover it and gently warm each slice for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hawaiian Poke Cake?

Hawaiian Poke Cake is a moist vanilla cake soaked with banana pudding and topped with crushed pineapple and whipped cream. It’s a delightful tropical dessert!

Can I use other flavors of pudding?

Absolutely! While banana pudding works beautifully, you can experiment with vanilla, coconut, or even chocolate pudding for different flavor profiles.

How do I ensure my Hawaiian Poke Cake stays moist?

To keep your cake moist, always poke enough holes and ensure that you refrigerate it after adding the pudding layer. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together.

Can I make Hawaiian Poke Cake ahead of time?

Yes! In fact, it’s best when made ahead of time. Prepare it at least four hours before serving, or even better, overnight for optimal flavor.

What toppings can I use besides whipped cream?

Feel free to get creative! You can add toasted coconut flakes, fresh fruit like mango or strawberries, or even nuts for added crunch.

Final Thoughts

Hawaiian Poke Cake is not just delicious; its tropical flavors make it perfect for any occasion. The versatility in toppings and flavors allows you to customize this dessert according to your taste. Give it a try and enjoy every bite of this delightful treat!

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