Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Imagine a cake that is not only stunning to look at but also bursting with flavor and moistness. The Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is your answer to a delightful dessert that will impress friends and family alike. This cake combines the classic red velvet flavor with the creamy goodness of cream cheese frosting and a sweetened condensed milk soak that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just because, this cake is sure to become a favorite.

Reasons to Love Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

There are countless reasons to adore this delectable treat. First, the vibrant red color makes it visually striking, instantly catching the eye. Second, the poke cake technique allows for a unique texture and flavor infusion, making each slice moist and full of sweet goodness. The addition of cream cheese frosting brings a tangy richness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake. Lastly, this cake is incredibly easy to make, ensuring that even novice bakers can whip it up with confidence.

What We’re Using

To create this mouthwatering Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather the following ingredients:

• One 16.25-ounce box red velvet cake mix (I used Duncan Hines)
• One 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk
• Eight ounces brick-style cream cheese, softened (lite okay)
• Half a cup unsalted butter, softened (half of 1 stick)
• Two cups confectioners sugar
• One teaspoon vanilla extract
• One teaspoon salt, or to taste
• One cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips (mini preferred, regular size may be substituted)

Equipment at a Glance

Before diving into the baking process, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

• Mixing bowls – for combining ingredients.
• Electric mixer – to achieve a smooth and creamy frosting.
• 9×13 inch baking dish – the perfect size for a poke cake.
• Toothpick or skewer – for poking holes in the cake.
• Spatula – for spreading the frosting evenly.

Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: How It’s Done

Creating this stunning cake is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to make your own Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the red velvet cake mix with the ingredients listed on the box, usually water, eggs, and oil. Mix according to package instructions until smooth.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 28-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for about 15 minutes in the pan.

Step 3: Poke the Cake

Once the cake has cooled slightly, use a toothpick or skewer to poke holes all over the surface of the cake, about 1 inch apart. Be careful not to poke all the way to the bottom; just create enough holes to allow the condensed milk to seep in.

Step 4: Add the Sweetened Condensed Milk

In a small bowl, pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes you’ve poked. This step is crucial as it infuses the cake with sweetness and moisture. Let the cake sit for about 30 minutes to absorb the condensed milk.

Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter together until light and fluffy. Gradually add in the confectioners sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Frost the Cake

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake, making sure to cover it well. For an added touch, sprinkle mini semi-sweet chocolate chips on top for extra sweetness and texture.

Step 7: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake for at least 1 hour before slicing. This allows the flavors to meld and the frosting to set. Serve chilled and watch as your guests delight in every bite of this heavenly Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, don’t worry! This cake can be adapted to suit various needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix to make this cake gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut milk or almond milk in place of sweetened condensed milk.
• Reduced Sugar: Opt for a sugar-free cake mix and use a sugar substitute in the frosting.

Things That Go Wrong

Even the best bakers encounter a few hiccups. Here are some common issues you might face and how to resolve them:

• Dry Cake: Ensure you don’t overbake the cake. Check for doneness a few minutes early.
• Too Sweet: If the cake is overly sweet, reduce the amount of sweetened condensed milk or confectioners sugar in the frosting.
• Frosting Not Spreading: If your frosting is too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up.

Storage & Reheat Guide

To keep your Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it taste even better the next day! If you want to keep the cake longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy cold or at room temperature.

FAQ

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make the cake a day or two in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. The flavors improve as it sits!

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you prefer not to use cream cheese, you can substitute it with mascarpone cheese or a whipped topping for a lighter frosting.

Can I add other toppings?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. Chopped pecans, crushed Oreos, or even a drizzle of chocolate ganache would be delicious!

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to grease your baking dish well before adding the batter. You can also line the bottom with parchment paper for an extra layer of protection.

Cook This Next

If you enjoy this Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, you might also love these delicious recipes:

• Carrot Cake With Cream Cheese
• Sausage Cream Cheese Crescent Rolls

Ready to Cook?

Now that you have everything you need to create this beautiful and delicious Red Velvet Poke Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s time to get started! Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and enjoy the process of baking something truly special. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy. Happy baking!