Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake
The holidays are all about indulging in delectable treats, and this Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake is the perfect recipe to satisfy your cravings. With its decadent red velvet base, creamy peppermint filling, and cool whip topping, this cake is a showstopper that’s sure to impress your guests.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or simply looking for a festive dessert to enjoy at home, this Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake is a must-try. Its combination of rich, chocolatey flavors and refreshing peppermint will transport you straight to a winter wonderland with every bite.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
This Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake is a true crowd-pleaser, thanks to its irresistible flavor profile and stunning presentation. The moist and tender red velvet cake is the perfect foundation, while the creamy peppermint filling and cool whip topping add a delightful contrast of textures. And the crushed peppermint candies on top give it a festive, crunchy finish that’s sure to delight your taste buds.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly easy to make, making it the perfect choice for busy holiday schedules. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can whip up this showstopping cake in no time, allowing you to focus on other holiday tasks without sacrificing your dessert game.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday party or looking for a special treat to enjoy with your family, this Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake is sure to become a new holiday favorite.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake ❓
• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup white chocolate chips
• 1 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
• 1 (8 oz) container Cool Whip, thawed
The beauty of this Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of rich red velvet cake, creamy peppermint filling, and cool whip topping creates a flavor profile that has made poke cake recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: Using the bottom of a wooden spoon or another round object, poke holes all over the top of the cooled cake, making sure to poke all the way to the bottom.
• Step 3: In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and softened cream cheese until smooth. Pour this mixture over the top of the cake, using the back of a spoon to spread it evenly and ensure it fills the holes.
• Step 4: Sprinkle the white chocolate chips evenly over the top of the peppermint filling.
• Step 5: Spread the Cool Whip over the top of the cake, covering the white chocolate chips.
• Step 6: Sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies or candy canes over the top of the Cool Whip.
• Step 7: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to set.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Compared to traditional cakes which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake saves you 40% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
• Protein: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 319mg
These Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cakes provide approximately 20% of your daily carbohydrate requirements and 30% of your daily fat needs, making them a decadent treat that still offers some nutritional value.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Replace the sweetened condensed milk with a sugar-free version, and use a sugar-free cake mix or low-carb flour blend.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Substitute the cream cheese and Cool Whip with dairy-free alternatives, such as vegan cream cheese and coconut whipped cream.
• Added protein: Fold in a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the peppermint filling for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Add a layer of chopped spinach or kale to the cake for an extra nutritional punch.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a steaming mug of hot cocoa or peppermint mocha for a cozy winter treat.
• Complement the cake with a fresh green salad or a light fruit salad for a complete dessert course.
• For a holiday gathering, serve the cake on a festive platter garnished with additional crushed peppermint candies and fresh mint leaves.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not poking enough holes: Make sure to poke holes all the way through the cake, ensuring the peppermint filling can soak in evenly.
• Letting the cake cool completely before poking holes: If the cake is still warm, the holes will be more defined and the filling will absorb better.
• Overfilling the cake: Pour the peppermint filling slowly and evenly, being careful not to overfill the cake and cause it to spill over the sides.
• Skipping the refrigeration step: Allowing the cake to chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours is crucial for the filling to set properly and the flavors to meld together.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cakes retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the cake up to the point of pouring the peppermint filling, then cover and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking and finishing the recipe.
• Freezing baked: Once the cake has been fully assembled, let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
• Reheating: To restore the texture, you can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds before serving.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This cake actually benefits from being made in advance. You can prepare the cake and poke the holes up to 2 days before serving, then add the peppermint filling and toppings just before serving. The cake will maintain its moisture and the flavors will meld together beautifully.
Can I substitute the white chocolate chips?
Yes, you can use other mix-ins in place of the white chocolate chips. Try chopped peppermint bark, crushed Oreos, or even mini chocolate chips for a different flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free or dairy-free?
This recipe is not naturally gluten-free or dairy-free, but you can easily make adaptations. Use a gluten-free red velvet cake mix and substitute the cream cheese and Cool Whip with dairy-free alternatives to accommodate those dietary needs.
Why is my cake dry or crumbly?
If your cake turns out dry or crumbly, it’s likely due to overbaking. Be sure to follow the instructions on the cake mix box and check the cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Underbaking is better than overbaking when it comes to maintaining the cake’s moisture.
Can I add extra peppermint flavor?
Absolutely! You can experiment with adding a teaspoon or two of peppermint extract to the peppermint filling for an extra minty punch. You can also use peppermint-flavored white chocolate chips or crush additional peppermint candies to sprinkle on top.
Conclusion
These Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cakes represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a festive holiday dessert or a special treat for a winter gathering, they’re sure to impress with their moist red velvet base, creamy peppermint filling, and cool whip topping. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cakes demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the assembly. So gather your loved ones, indulge in a slice of this festive and delicious cake, and experience the magic of the holiday season.
