Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Banana Pudding Poke Cake is a delightful and easy dessert that combines the classic flavors of banana pudding with a moist and fluffy cake. This delicious dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a sweet treat at home. With its creamy texture and sweet banana flavor, it is sure to please everyone who tries it.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make Banana Pudding Poke Cake. First, it is simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all levels. Second, it is incredibly delicious and brings back nostalgic flavors that many people love. Lastly, this cake is great for feeding a crowd, as it serves many people easily. The combination of cake, pudding, and bananas creates a wonderful dessert experience that everyone will enjoy.
How to Make Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Ingredients
- 1 15-ounce box of yellow cake mix plus box ingredients (use water not milk)
- 4 cups whole milk
- 6 ounces (3 4-ounce packages) instant banana pudding mix
- 4 medium-large bananas, sliced
- 1 8-ounce tub Cool Whip, thawed from frozen
- Crushed vanilla wafer Nilla cookies
- Sliced banana
Directions
- Follow the package directions and bake a yellow cake in a 9×13 pan. Once slightly cooled (about 15 minutes), poke holes throughout the cake using a small-diameter wooden spoon. Make sure to space the holes and go full depth without pushing too hard on the bottom.
- In a large bowl, mix 2 packages of pudding with 4 cups of milk using a whisk or hand-mixer for 2 minutes.
- Pour pudding evenly over the cake, ensuring to fill all the holes, then refrigerate for a couple of hours to set.
- Remove from the fridge, place banana slices evenly on top, then spread Cool Whip over the top.
- Garnish with crushed vanilla wafers and/or sliced bananas.
How to Serve Banana Pudding Poke Cake
To serve Banana Pudding Poke Cake, cut it into squares. You can add extra banana slices or crushed vanilla wafers on each piece for added decoration and flavor. This cake is best served chilled, so keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to enjoy it.
How to Store Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Store any leftover Banana Pudding Poke Cake in the refrigerator. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will keep well for about 3-5 days. However, the bananas may brown over time, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh.
Tips to Make Banana Pudding Poke Cake
- Make sure to poke the holes in the cake evenly for better pudding distribution.
- Use ripe but firm bananas for the best taste and texture.
- Chill the cake for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set properly.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding other toppings like chocolate chips or caramel sauce. For a twist, consider using vanilla pudding instead of banana pudding for a different flavor profile.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of cake mix?
Yes, you can use other flavors, like chocolate or spice cake, for a different taste.
2. How do I prevent the bananas from browning?
You can sprinkle a little lemon juice over the sliced bananas to slow down the browning process.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it and keep it refrigerated until serving.
Enjoy making and sharing this delicious Banana Pudding Poke Cake! It is sure to be a hit with friends and family alike.
