Lemon Poke Cake Recipe
A bright and refreshing Lemon Poke Cake featuring a moist yellow cake soaked with instant lemon pudding and fresh lemon juice, topped with a luscious cream cheese and whipped cream frosting. Perfect for spring or summer gatherings, this dessert balances tartness and sweetness beautifully.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes plus chilling time
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3.4 oz instant lemon pudding mix
- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup water
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1/3 cup lemon juice
Frosting
- 2 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (for whipped cream)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the cake batter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, instant lemon pudding mix, eggs, water, vegetable oil, and 1/3 cup lemon juice. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well combined.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly.
- Poke the cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the warm cake. Pour additional lemon juice or lemon glaze over the cake to soak into the holes, enhancing the lemon flavor and moisture.
- Prepare the frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and 2 cups powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy whipping cream, 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
- Combine the frosting components: Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture to create a light, fluffy lemon frosting.
- Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until the frosting is set and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Slice into 12 portions and serve chilled, garnishing with lemon zest or fresh lemon slices if desired.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is cool before frosting to prevent melting.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best citrus flavor.
- Allow the cake to chill after frosting to enhance texture and flavor.
- Can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but frosting may be less stable.
Find it online: https://miracooking.com/lemon-poke-cake-recipe/
