Coconut Cream Poke Cake

I have been dying to bake something in my new kitchen! With so many ideas and not enough time, I found myself craving something… you know how it is when you can’t quite put your finger on what you want. Judging from the Facebook responses, it seems a lot of us have those days! Ultimately, it was driving me crazy trying to figure out what to make. Coconut sounded good to me, and a poke cake also sounded appealing—so why not combine the two?! I made this Coconut Cream Poke Cake, and oh my gosh, it really hit the spot. For the record, I enjoyed a piece of this cake with a cup of coffee that had International Delight Almond Joy coffee creamer in it! It was so delicious and the perfect little treat! 😋

Now, about the cake—it’s perfect for potlucks and cookouts because, as you all know, it’s that season, right?! It’s super moist, and since it starts with a boxed cake mix, it’s so easy! In case you’re wondering where to find the cream of coconut, you can usually find it in the international section of the store or check the alcohol aisle. Goya, Costamar, and Coco Lopez are some fairly common brands.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Coconut Cream Poke Cake is incredibly easy to make thanks to its boxed cake mix base. It’s perfect for any gathering, moist and flavorful, and evokes those tropical vibes we all love. Plus, who can resist the combination of creamy coconut and sweetened condensed milk that sinks into every bite?

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• 9×13-inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Wooden spoon (for poking holes)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking spray

Ingredients

• 1 box (15.25 oz.) White Cake mix (any brand)
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 small box (3.4 oz.) coconut cream instant pudding
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 can (15 oz.) cream of coconut
• 1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk
• 8 oz. container of Cool Whip, thawed
• Sweetened coconut flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, mix together the cake mix, eggs, milk, oil, instant pudding, and vanilla until smooth. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
3. Bake for 32-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. While the cake is still hot, mix the cream of coconut and sweetened condensed milk in a medium bowl.
5. Using the round end of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the hot cake. Slowly pour the cream mixture over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let the cake cool completely.
6. Once cooled, top the cake with Cool Whip and sprinkle with the desired amount of sweetened coconut flakes.
7. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours before serving. It’s even better the next day, if you can wait that long!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cake is completely cool before adding the Cool Whip to prevent it from melting.
• Poke plenty of holes to ensure the coconut mixture soaks into every part of the cake.
• For a more intense coconut flavor, toast the coconut flakes before sprinkling them on top.

Additional Tips or Variations

Try adding a teaspoon of coconut extract to the cake batter for even more coconut goodness. You can also experiment with different pudding flavors, like vanilla or banana, for a unique twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This cake is a delightful indulgence, providing a good amount of sweetness and creaminess. Keep portion sizes in mind if you’re watching your calorie intake!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different cake mix flavor?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cake mix flavors like vanilla or yellow cake for a unique twist.

Where can I find cream of coconut?

Look for cream of coconut in the international or alcohol aisle of your grocery store. Brands like Goya, Costamar, and Coco Lopez are popular options.

How long will this cake last?

This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, although it’s so delicious it might not last that long!

Conclusion

There you have it—an easy-to-make, deliciously moist Coconut Cream Poke Cake that’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experiences. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee or on its own, this cake is a treat you won’t want to miss!