Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake – Festive Holiday Dessert Recipe

Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake – A Festive, Flavor-Packed Holiday Dessert

If you’re searching for the ultimate holiday dessert that combines festive flair with irresistible flavor, this Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is the showstopper your table has been waiting for. With its moist white cake base, vibrant cranberry filling that sinks deliciously into every bite, and a cloud-like whipped topping sprinkled with holiday colors, this cake delivers the perfect balance of sweet, tart, creamy, and utterly celebratory. It’s the kind of dessert that guests rave about, request the recipe for, and look forward to year after year.

What makes this cake truly spectacular is its poke-cake magic: warm cranberry sauce seeps into tiny tunnels throughout the cake, infusing it with bold seasonal flavor and keeping every slice exceptionally moist. Paired with the refreshing lightness of whipped topping, this dessert is festive without being heavy—ideal after a big holiday feast.

Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Cake:

White Cake Mix (15.25 oz): Provides a soft, tender base that absorbs the cranberry filling beautifully.
Eggs (3 large): Add richness and structure, ensuring the cake holds up under the cranberry layer.
Water (1 cup): Helps the batter achieve the perfect consistency and moisture level.
Vegetable Oil (1/4 cup): Ensures a plush, moist crumb that stays soft even after chilling.

For the Cranberry Layer:

Cranberry Sauce (14 oz can): Delivers sweet-tart holiday flavor and a gorgeous red color.
Water (1/2 cup): Thins the cranberry mixture so it flows into the poked holes.
Granulated Sugar (1/4 cup): Enhances the sweetness and balances cranberry’s natural tartness.

For the Whipped Topping:

Whipped Topping (8 oz): Creates a light, creamy finish that complements the cranberry layer.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Elevates the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
Festive Sprinkles: Adds holiday charm and visual appeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, eggs, water, and vegetable oil until smooth and lump-free. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick emerges clean. Allow the cake to cool for 10–15 minutes.

2. Prepare the Cranberry Layer

In a saucepan, combine the cranberry sauce, water, and sugar. Warm over medium heat until silky and well blended. Let it cool slightly—warm, not hot, is ideal for absorbing into the cake.

3. Poke the Cake

Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a sturdy straw, poke holes evenly across the cake, about 1 inch apart. These channels will hold the cranberry mixture for maximum flavor.

4. Add the Cranberry Filling

Pour the warm cranberry mixture slowly over the cake, ensuring it drips into every hole. Allow the cake to cool completely, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.

5. Add the Whipped Topping

Mix the whipped topping with vanilla until smooth. Spread it generously over the chilled cake.

6. Decorate & Serve

Finish with festive red and green sprinkles. Slice into squares and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

Perfectly festive: The bright red cranberry layer screams Christmas cheer.
Make-ahead friendly: Ideal for busy holiday hosting—prepare it the night before.
Crowd-pleasing flavors: Sweet, tart, creamy, and refreshing all at once.
No complicated steps: Beginner-friendly yet impressive enough for gatherings.

Pro Tips for a Flawless Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

Don’t skip the chilling: It enhances moisture and helps the flavors develop.
Poke deeper holes: The more filling the cake absorbs, the better.
Warm cranberry mix works best: Too cool and it won’t seep properly; too hot and it may melt the cake.
Add orange zest: For a gourmet twist, add 1 tsp of orange zest to the cranberry mixture.
Use homemade cranberry sauce: For a richer, more authentic flavor if you have extra time.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with hot cocoa or spiced apple cider for the perfect holiday dessert plate.
Add fresh cranberries or sugared cranberries on top for extra sparkle.
Serve after a hearty Christmas dinner as a refreshing, light dessert alternative.

Conclusion

This Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration in every slice. With its simple ingredients, stunning appearance, and unforgettable flavor, it’s guaranteed to earn a spot on your yearly holiday menu. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply sharing a cozy treat at home, this cake’s perfect blend of sweet, tart, and creamy goodness makes it a standout dish that looks impressive while remaining wonderfully easy to make. Bring joy to your table this season with a cake that tastes as magical as Christmas feels.