Caramel Poke Cake
It is no secret that we love poke cakes around here. We’ve made dozens of different versions over the years, yet somehow skipped over a classic Caramel Poke Cake! Once I realized this, I knew I needed to address the situation immediately. I landed on this easy caramel and cream cheese version, and it was love at first bite. If you’re a caramel fan, then you are in for quite the treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Caramel Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of caramel and cream cheese with a moist, tender cake. The magic of poke cakes lies in their ability to absorb delicious sauces, creating a dessert that’s flavorful in every bite. This particular recipe is incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13 baking dish
- Large mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Fork
- Knife
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 (16 oz) white cake mix
- 3 eggs
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup milk
Topping
- 1 (12 oz) jar caramel sauce, divided
- 12 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla
- 4 cups powdered sugar
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together all cake ingredients just until combined.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared baking dish and bake for 22-25 minutes, or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
- Use a fork to poke holes all over the hot cake, then pour half of the caramel sauce on top (caramel can be heated slightly beforehand if it’s too thick to pour). Spread caramel to cover the top of the cake.
- Allow the cake to fully cool as the caramel seeps in.
- For the frosting: In a large bowl, beat together butter and cream cheese until light and smooth. Add vanilla and powdered sugar and continue mixing for 2-3 more minutes.
- Frost the cooled cake with the cream cheese frosting then drizzle the remaining 1 cup of caramel sauce on top. Gently drag a knife through the frosting to create a marbled pattern.
- Chill until ready to serve.
Tips for Success
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For best results, use room temperature ingredients for the frosting.
Additional Tips or Variations
Try adding chopped pecans or a sprinkle of sea salt on top for an extra layer of flavor. You can also experiment with chocolate or butterscotch sauce for a twist on the classic caramel.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This cake is rich and indulgent. Please enjoy in moderation and consider it a sweet treat to savor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cake mix? Yes, you can substitute with yellow or butter cake mix for a slightly different flavor.
How should I store the cake? Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, covered to maintain freshness.
Can this cake be made in advance? Absolutely, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Conclusion
This Caramel Poke Cake is a decadent dessert that will impress your family and friends. Its luscious caramel and cream cheese frosting make it a standout treat. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any variations you come up with!
