PUNCH BOWL CAKE RECIPE BY PAULA DEEN

Spring is one of my favorite times of year in Chicago. As we move through May, the air becomes sweeter and the blossoming greenery promises a beautiful summer full of new possibilities. Even as I write this, the sun is beaming in through my living room windows, and my anticipation for warmer weather is growing. Get excited with me, y’all!

Spring incorporates many different forms of celebration, with my favorite being Mother’s Day. This year marks my second Mother’s Day with my little girl Harmony. I couldn’t be more grateful for both her and the opportunity I’ve been given to be her mom. Becoming a mother has changed my life and given me a new appreciation for each and every one of the women in my life.

I was raised by strong, intelligent women who knew the importance of supporting one another. My Big Mama, Mom, and my aunts taught me the importance of balance, confidence, kindness, and so much more. Each virtue I was taught made me the woman I am today and allowed me to find success as a businesswoman, a wife, and now, a mother. I look forward to taking all that I have learned and passing it on to Harmony as she grows into the astounding woman I know she’s meant to be.

In my family, Mother’s Day is always celebrated with a Sunday church service followed by a family brunch. Aunts, sisters, and cousins gather around the table with their children to share a delicious spread. The fellas usually treat us by either taking the mothers out or attempting to create the feast themselves. If the fellas are so daring, I still always try to assist a bit (since they need it!). You shouldn’t be surprised to know that your homegirl always brings dessert. This year is no exception.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Punch Bowl Cake brings together layers of moist pound cake, creamy strawberry-infused filling, fresh whipped cream, and vibrant strawberries, making it a perfect spring dessert. If you’re a fan of strawberries, especially in dishes like Strawberry Pound Cake or Strawberry Cheesecake, you’ll fall in love with this recipe!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Two 9-inch round cake pans
• A large punch bowl
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer (for whipping cream, if not using Cool Whip)
• Spatula

Ingredients

• One 18 1/4-ounce package yellow cake mix
• Two 3 1/2-ounce packages instant vanilla pudding mix (prepared according to instructions on the box)
• One 20-ounce can crushed pineapple, drained
• 6 medium bananas, sliced
• 2 pints strawberries (crush one pint, slice one pint, and mix both together)
• One 24-ounce container Cool Whip (thawed), or fresh whipped cream (1 quart heavy cream whipped with 1 cup sugar until stiff)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the yellow cake mix in two 9-inch round pans as directed on the package.
2. Once baked and cooled, place one layer of the cake at the bottom of a punch bowl.
3. Add half of the prepared pudding, half of the pineapple, 3 sliced bananas, half of the strawberry mixture, and half of the Cool Whip or whipped cream.
4. Repeat with the second layer of cake, followed by the remaining pudding, pineapple, bananas, and strawberries.
5. Finish with a layer of Cool Whip or whipped cream on top.
6. Sprinkle some strawberry juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Success

• Ensure all ingredients are well-chilled before assembling for a refreshing dessert.
• Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
• Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the whipped cream by adding sugar to taste.

Additional Tips and Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a layer of chocolate shavings or nuts for added texture. You could also experiment with different fruits like blueberries or raspberries for a twist.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

• Calories: Approx. 350
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator, making it perfect for entertaining.

What can I use instead of a punch bowl?
If you don’t have a punch bowl, a large glass bowl or trifle dish will work well.

Conclusion

This Strawberry Punch Bowl Cake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delight for the taste buds. It’s a perfect way to celebrate spring and bring a smile to your loved ones’ faces. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences in the comments below. Happy baking!