If you’re a fan of coconut, then this Coconut Cream Poke Cake recipe is a must-try for you. This easy and homemade cake is the perfect sweet treat for any occasion, especially during the summer season. Made with a white cake mix, coconut cream pudding mix, cream of coconut, and sweetened condensed milk, this poke cake is moist, creamy, and bursting with coconut flavor.
Impress your guests with this delicious coconut dessert that is topped with a generous layer of Cool Whip and sprinkled with sweetened coconut flakes. The combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. Plus, the cake needs to be chilled for at least 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld together, resulting in a truly decadent dessert.
Key Takeaways:
- Coconut Cream Poke Cake is a delicious and easy homemade dessert.
- The cake is made with a white cake mix, coconut cream pudding mix, cream of coconut, and sweetened condensed milk.
- Chilling the cake for at least 8 hours enhances the flavors.
- Top the cake with Cool Whip and sweetened coconut flakes for added indulgence.
- This coconut treat is perfect for summer gatherings and potluck parties.
Ingredients for Coconut Cream Poke Cake
To make this Coconut Cream Poke Cake, you will need the following ingredients:
- A box of white cake mix
- Eggs
- Vegetable oil
- Milk
- Vanilla extract
- Coconut cream pudding mix
- Cream of coconut
- Sweetened condensed milk
- Cool Whip (frozen whipped topping)
- Sweetened coconut flakes
These ingredients come together to create a flavorful and moist coconut cake that is sure to impress. The white cake mix forms the base of the cake, while the coconut cream pudding mix and cream of coconut add a rich coconut flavor. The filling combines cream of coconut and sweetened condensed milk for a creamy and sweet center. Finally, the cake is topped with Cool Whip and sprinkled with sweetened coconut flakes for a delicious finishing touch.
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, let’s move on to the instructions for making this delectable Coconut Cream Poke Cake.
Instructions for Making Coconut Cream Poke Cake
To make this Coconut Cream Poke Cake, follow these simple instructions:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the white cake mix box.
- Prepare a 9×13-inch baking pan by spraying it with cooking spray.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the white cake mix, eggs, milk, oil, coconut cream pudding mix, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for the specified time on the cake mix box or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- While the cake is still hot, use a wooden spoon to poke holes evenly across the surface.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of coconut and sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the cake, making sure to fill the holes.
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Once the cake has cooled, spread a layer of Cool Whip over the top.
- Sprinkle sweetened coconut flakes on top of the Cool Whip.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Slice and serve the delicious Coconut Cream Poke Cake.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|—————————-|————-|
| White cake mix | 1 box |
| Eggs | As indicated|
| Milk | As indicated|
| Vegetable oil | As indicated|
| Coconut cream pudding mix | 1 box |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Cream of coconut | 1 can |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1 can |
| Cool Whip | 1 container |
| Sweetened coconut flakes | As desired |
Enjoy this moist and creamy Coconut Cream Poke Cake for a delightful dessert experience.
Cooking and Serving Tips for Coconut Cream Poke Cake
To ensure the best results with this Coconut Cream Poke Cake recipe, follow these cooking and serving tips.
- Cooling is Key: Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the filling and toppings. This will help the cake absorb the flavors and create a moist, delicious dessert.
- Chill for Flavor: Once assembled, chill the cake for at least 8 hours. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together and enhances the creaminess of the coconut filling.
- Toasted Coconut Topping: For an extra burst of coconut flavor and a delightful crunch, toast the sweetened coconut flakes before sprinkling them on top of the cake. Simply spread the flakes on a baking sheet and toast in a preheated oven at 350°F for 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serving Slices: When ready to serve, cut the cake into slices, and enjoy! The cake can be served chilled or at room temperature, depending on personal preference.
“Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the filling and toppings.”
“Chill the cake for at least 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.”
“For even more coconut flavor, you can toast the sweetened coconut flakes before sprinkling them on top of the cake.”
“When serving, cut the cake into slices and enjoy!”
These tips will ensure that your Coconut Cream Poke Cake is not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Cooling is Key | Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the filling and toppings. |
| Chill for Flavor | Chill the cake for at least 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld together. |
| Toasted Coconut Topping | For more coconut flavor, toast the sweetened coconut flakes before sprinkling them on top of the cake. |
| Serving Slices | Cut the cake into slices and serve chilled or at room temperature. |
These tips will ensure that your Coconut Cream Poke Cake is not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious.
Can I Use Coconut Milk Instead of Cream of Coconut?
No, you should use cream of coconut in this Coconut Cream Poke Cake recipe, not coconut milk. Coconut milk and cream of coconut are different products. Cream of coconut has a higher fat content and a sweeter, thicker consistency, which is what this recipe calls for. Using coconut milk as a substitute will result in a different texture and flavor.
How Long Does Coconut Poke Cake Take to Cook?
If you’re excited to indulge in a delicious Coconut Cream Poke Cake, you’re probably wondering how long it takes to make this delightful dessert. From start to finish, the total time for preparing this Coconut Cream Poke Cake is approximately 2 hours, including both prep and chilling time.
When it comes to baking the cake itself, the actual bake time is around 35 minutes. However, keep in mind that you will also need to account for the chilling time of at least 8 hours to allow the flavors to meld together and create a truly decadent treat.
The prep time for this Coconut Cream Poke Cake is approximately 30 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, preparing the cake batter, and preheating your oven. Once the cake is baked, the remaining time is dedicated to chilling and allowing the flavors to develop, resulting in a moist and flavorful dessert that is worth the wait.
So, if you’re planning to make this Coconut Cream Poke Cake, be sure to budget enough time to enjoy the full experience. Plan your baking schedule accordingly to ensure the cake has ample time to chill and reach peak tastiness before serving.
Coconut Cream Poke Cake Cooking Time Breakdown:
- Bake Time: Approximately 35 minutes
- Prep Time: Approximately 30 minutes
- Chilling Time: At least 8 hours
- Total Time: Approximately 2 hours (including prep and chilling time)
How Many Servings Does Coconut Cream Poke Cake Yield?
If you’re planning to make this irresistible Coconut Cream Poke Cake, you’re probably wondering how many servings it will yield. Well, you’re in luck! This recipe will produce one delicious 9×13 inch cake that can be sliced into approximately 18 to 24 servings, depending on how generous you are with your slices.
Whether you prefer smaller, bite-sized portions or larger, more indulgent slices, this cake is sure to delight all coconut lovers at your gathering. With its creamy filling, moist cake base, and topped with sweetened coconut flakes, each serving of this Coconut Cream Poke Cake is a little slice of tropical paradise.
So, get ready to treat your taste buds and share the goodness of this Coconut Cream Poke Cake with your friends and family. Let’s take a look at the mouthwatering image below to inspire your imagination.
Now that you know how many servings you can expect from this delightful dessert, it’s time to gather the ingredients, follow the instructions, and savor every heavenly bite. Get ready to enjoy a taste of paradise!
Where Can I Find Cream of Coconut?
When it comes to making a delicious Coconut Cream Poke Cake, one key ingredient you’ll need is cream of coconut. But where can you find it? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
You can usually find cream of coconut in two main sections of the grocery store:
International Section:
Head over to the international section, where you’ll discover a variety of flavors from around the world. Look for shelves or coolers with products from different countries. Cream of coconut is often stocked here, as its rich and tropical taste is popular in many cuisines.
Alcoholic Drink Mixers Aisle:
Another spot to check is the aisle dedicated to alcoholic drink mixers. Cream of coconut is a common ingredient in tropical cocktails like piña coladas, so you can often find it stocked alongside other mixers and garnishes.
Here are a few popular brands of cream of coconut that you can look for:
- Goya Cream of Coconut
- Costamar Cream of Coconut
- Coco Lopez Cream of Coconut
Keep in mind that some stores may also place cream of coconut in the alcohol aisle, alongside ingredients for mixed drinks. So, if it’s not in the international section or the mixer aisle, it’s worth checking there too!
Now that you know where to find cream of coconut, you’re one step closer to creating the perfect Coconut Cream Poke Cake!
| Store Section | Brands of Cream of Coconut |
|---|---|
| International Section | Goya, Costamar, Coco Lopez |
| Alcoholic Drink Mixers Aisle | Goya, Costamar, Coco Lopez |
| Alcohol Aisle | Goya, Costamar, Coco Lopez |
Can Coconut Cream Cake Be Frozen?
If you find yourself with leftover Coconut Cream Poke Cake, don’t worry! You can freeze it for future enjoyment. However, it’s important to note that the texture may change slightly after thawing, becoming slightly mushy. To freeze the cake, follow these simple steps:
- Allow the cake to cool completely.
- Place the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container with the date and contents.
- Store the cake in the freezer for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen Coconut Cream Poke Cake, simply follow these thawing instructions:
- Remove the cake from the freezer and transfer it to the refrigerator.
- Thaw the cake in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.
- Once thawed, bring the cake to room temperature or serve it chilled.
This method will ensure that you can savor the delicious flavors of the Coconut Cream Poke Cake even after it has been frozen.
| Freezing Method | Storage Time | Thawing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Several hours or overnight in the refrigerator |
“Freezing the Coconut Cream Poke Cake allows you to enjoy it at a later date without any waste. Just be prepared for a slightly different texture after thawing, which can be countered by serving it chilled.”
Tips for Serving Coconut Cream Poke Cake
When it comes to presenting your delicious Coconut Cream Poke Cake, there are a few tips you can follow to make it even more appealing to the eyes and taste buds. Here are some cake serving tips and cake presentation ideas that will elevate your dessert to the next level:
- Garnish with Sweetened Coconut Flakes: Sprinkle additional sweetened coconut flakes on top of the cake to enhance its visual appeal and add a touch of texture. The sweetened coconut flakes will not only add a pop of white color but also provide a delightful crunch with every bite.
- Drizzle with a Coconut-Flavored Sauce: For an extra burst of coconut flavor, consider drizzling a coconut-flavored sauce over the cake before serving. Whether it’s a homemade coconut syrup or a store-bought coconut sauce, this addition will elevate the overall taste and presentation of the Coconut Cream Poke Cake.
- Serve Chilled: To experience the best texture and flavor, serve the Coconut Cream Poke Cake chilled. The creamy filling and coconut-infused cake will be at their most refreshing when enjoyed cold. It’s the perfect dessert to cool down on a hot summer day.
This Coconut Cream Poke Cake is not only delicious but also offers the opportunity for creative cake presentation. Whether you’re hosting a potluck, picnic, or any summer gathering, this visually stunning dessert will surely impress your guests.
Take a look at the image below to get an idea of how beautifully this Coconut Cream Poke Cake can be presented:
Variations and Substitutions for Coconut Cream Poke Cake
While this Coconut Cream Poke Cake recipe is delicious as is, you have the flexibility to add your own variations and substitutions to customize it according to your preferences. Here are some ideas to inspire your creativity:
1. Filling Variations:
Enhance the tropical flavors of the cake by adding crushed pineapple or mango chunks to the filling. The juicy sweetness of these fruits will complement the coconut cream pudding and cream of coconut, giving your poke cake a refreshing twist.
2. Cake Flavors:
Experiment with different cake flavors to create unique variations of the Coconut Cream Poke Cake. Consider using a chocolate cake mix for a richer and indulgent experience. Alternatively, you can opt for a lemon or strawberry cake mix to add a fruity burst of flavor to the dessert. The filling and topping ingredients can remain the same, allowing the coconut to still shine through.
3. Frosting Options:
While the recipe suggests using Cool Whip as the topping, you can explore other frosting options to suit your taste. Cream cheese frosting or whipped cream are great alternatives that complement the creamy coconut flavors beautifully. Consider adding a hint of vanilla extract or almond extract to the frosting for added depth of flavor.
Remember, the best part about creating your own variations of the Coconut Cream Poke Cake is the opportunity to experiment and make it uniquely yours. Whether you choose to mix in different fruits, play with cake flavors, or switch up the frosting, have fun and enjoy the process.
| Variation | Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Tropical Twist | Crushed pineapple or mango chunks | Add the crushed pineapple or mango chunks to the filling mixture before pouring it over the cake. Proceed with the recipe as usual. |
| Double Chocolate | Chocolate cake mix | Prepare the cake batter using the chocolate cake mix instead of the white cake mix. Continue with the recipe as directed. |
| Fruity Delight | Lemon or strawberry cake mix | Prepare the cake batter using the lemon or strawberry cake mix instead of the white cake mix. Follow the remaining recipe instructions accordingly. |
| Decadent Cream Cheese Frosting | Cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract | Prepare a cream cheese frosting by beating together cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Spread the cream cheese frosting over the chilled cake and proceed with sprinkling sweetened coconut flakes. |
With these variations and substitutions, you can truly make the Coconut Cream Poke Cake your own, tailoring it to your unique taste preferences and creative ideas. Have fun exploring different flavors and ingredients to create a delicious and personalized twist on this classic dessert.
Conclusion
This Coconut Cream Poke Cake recipe is a fantastic choice for any coconut lover. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and yields a moist and flavorful cake. The combination of cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, and Cool Whip creates a luscious filling, while the sweetened coconut flakes on top add a delightful crunch.
Whether you’re hosting a summer party or simply craving a sweet treat, this Coconut Cream Poke Cake is sure to impress! The creamy and coconutty flavor of this cake will transport you to a tropical paradise with every bite.
So why wait? Gather your ingredients, whip up this Coconut Cream Poke Cake, and get ready to indulge in a deliciously satisfying dessert. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular day, this cake is the perfect way to treat yourself and your loved ones. Enjoy the coconut bliss!
FAQ
Can I use coconut milk instead of cream of coconut?
No, you should use cream of coconut in this Coconut Cream Poke Cake recipe, not coconut milk. Coconut milk and cream of coconut are different products. Cream of coconut has a higher fat content and a sweeter, thicker consistency, which is what this recipe calls for. Using coconut milk as a substitute will result in a different texture and flavor.
How long does Coconut Poke Cake take to cook?
The total time for making this Coconut Cream Poke Cake is approximately 2 hours, including prep and chilling time. The actual bake time for the cake is around 35 minutes, but you will also need to account for the chilling time of at least 8 hours. The prep time is about 30 minutes.
How many servings does Coconut Cream Poke Cake yield?
This Coconut Cream Poke Cake recipe yields one 9×13 inch cake, which can usually be cut into about 18 to 24 slices or servings, depending on how large or small you cut the slices.
Where can I find cream of coconut?
Cream of coconut can usually be found in the international section of the grocery store or in the aisle with the alcoholic drink mixers. Look for brands such as Goya, Costamar, or Coco Lopez. You may also find it in the alcohol aisle.
Can Coconut Cream Cake be frozen?
Yes, Coconut Cream Poke Cake can be frozen, but keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after thawing. It can become slightly mushy. If you do freeze the cake, store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving and allow it to come to room temperature or serve it chilled.
What are some tips for serving Coconut Cream Poke Cake?
When serving Coconut Cream Poke Cake, you can garnish it with additional sweetened coconut flakes or drizzle it with a coconut-flavored sauce for added visual appeal. Serve it chilled for the best texture and flavor. This cake is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any summer gathering.
Are there any variations or substitutions for Coconut Cream Poke Cake?
While this Coconut Cream Poke Cake recipe is delicious as is, you can add your own variations and substitutions to suit your preferences. For example, you can add crushed pineapple or mango chunks to the filling for a tropical twist. You can also experiment with different cake flavors or frostings. Get creative and make this recipe your own!