Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake

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The holiday season is synonymous with joy, laughter, and delightful culinary traditions. One show-stopping dessert that encapsulates the festive spirit is the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake. With its vibrant cranberry topping and creamy frosting, this cake is as visually striking as it is delicious. Despite its elegant appearance, this dessert is surprisingly easy to make, making it the perfect addition to your holiday table.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Imagine the soft, tender crumb of a white cake infused with a burst of sweet-tart cranberry sauce and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. The combination of flavors—the subtle citrus notes from the cranberry sauce, the smooth sweetness of the frosting, and the rich drizzle of white chocolate—creates an unforgettable dessert experience. Perfect for holiday gatherings or simply indulging in a seasonal treat, this poke cake is sure to become a new holiday favorite.

Ingredients Breakdown

Cranberry Sauce:

• 12 oz. fresh or frozen cranberries: The heart of the sauce, providing a tart, fruity flavor.
• 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice: Adds a bright, citrusy undertone that enhances the cranberries.
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar: Balances the tartness and sweetens the sauce.
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional): Adds warmth and depth to the sauce.
• Dash of ginger and nutmeg (optional): Lends subtle spice notes that evoke holiday cheer.
• 2 tablespoons corn starch dissolved in 2 ½ tablespoons water: Thickens the sauce to a pudding-like consistency.

Cake:

• 16.25 oz. box white cake mix: A time-saver that serves as the base for the cake.
• Ingredients listed on the box: Usually includes eggs, water, and oil.
• 1 tablespoon red sprinkles: Adds a festive touch to the batter.
• 1 tablespoon green sprinkles: Enhances the holiday color scheme.

Frosting:

• 8 oz. cream cheese, softened: Adds a tangy, rich base for the frosting.
• 1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting without making it too dense.
• 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the frosting with warm, aromatic notes.
• 2 ½ cups whipped topping (or 1 ¼ cups heavy whipping cream): Provides a light, airy texture.

Garnish:

• 3.5 oz. white chocolate, finely chopped: For an elegant drizzle on top.
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil: Helps the melted chocolate drizzle smoothly.
• 1/3 cup dried cranberries: Adds texture and a pop of color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cranberry Sauce

1. In a large saucepan, combine the cranberries and sugar. Let it sit for a few minutes to allow the cranberries to release some juices.
2. Add the freshly squeezed orange juice and stir well. For extra holiday warmth, add the cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Continue simmering for 8-10 minutes until the cranberries burst and soften, and the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in the corn starch slurry and cook for an additional few minutes until the mixture reaches a pudding-like consistency.
5. Set the sauce aside to cool slightly. You can leave it slightly chunky or process it for a smoother consistency, depending on your preference.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with baking spray and set aside.
2. Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Gently fold in the red and green sprinkles to create a festive look but avoid overmixing to prevent the colors from bleeding.
3. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake according to the package directions.
4. Once baked, let the cake cool for a few minutes. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes about an inch apart, ensuring they don’t go all the way to the bottom.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Spoon the cranberry sauce into the holes, allowing it to seep into the cake, and spread any remaining sauce evenly across the top.
2. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.

Step 4: Prepare the Frosting

1. Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and mix until combined.
3. Fold in the whipped topping (or homemade whipped cream) until evenly incorporated. Adjust the sweetness with more powdered sugar if desired.
4. Spread the frosting over the chilled cake.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle dried cranberries over the frosting for added color and texture.
2. Melt the white chocolate with the coconut oil, transfer it to a ziplock bag, snip a small corner, and drizzle over the top.
3. Store the cake in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Flavor, Texture, and Aroma: A Sensory Journey

As you prepare and bake this cake, the kitchen will fill with the sweet-tart scent of cranberries simmering with citrusy orange and warm spices. The fluffy, moist cake provides a perfect backdrop for the tangy cranberry sauce that oozes into each bite. The cream cheese frosting adds a velvety, rich layer, while the drizzle of white chocolate lends a hint of sweetness and sophistication. Every forkful delivers a harmonious blend of flavors that evoke holiday nostalgia.

Tips for Success

• Substitute Ingredients: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, frozen ones work just as well. Lemon juice can be used in place of orange juice for a different citrus profile.
• Make It Your Own: Add a hint of almond extract to the frosting for a unique twist or sprinkle crushed candy canes on top for an extra festive touch.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair this cake with a cup of spiced tea or a glass of mulled wine for the ultimate holiday treat.

Final Thoughts

The Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake is a delightful blend of simplicity and festivity. Whether you’re making it for a holiday party or just to savor a seasonal dessert at home, this cake is bound to impress both visually and in flavor. Its make-ahead nature means less stress and more time to enjoy the holiday season with loved ones. Give it a try, and watch as it becomes a beloved part of your holiday traditions!