We’re excited to share our favorite coconut poke cake recipe with you. It’s a moist cake perfect for any occasion. Made with a boxed cake mix, cream of coconut, and sweetened condensed milk, it’s a treat for coconut fans. It’s a popular pick for potlucks and family gatherings, and we’re thrilled to share it with you.
This coconut poke cake recipe makes enough for 15 people, ideal for big gatherings. It’s baked in a 13- x 9-inch dish and ready in 28 to 30 minutes. With its high-quality ingredients and simple steps, it’s sure to impress at any event.
Key Takeaways
- We’re sharing our favorite coconut poke cake recipe, a delicious and moist cake perfect for any occasion.
- The recipe uses a boxed cake mix, cream of coconut, and sweetened condensed milk for a flavorful cake.
- The coconut poke cake is a popular choice for potlucks and family gatherings and is sure to be a hit at any event.
- The cake serves 15 people and is baked in a 13- x 9-inch baking dish.
- The recipe is easy to follow and requires just 28 to 30 minutes of baking time.
- This flavorful cake is a great option for coconut lovers, with a moist and delicious texture.
Introduction to Coconut Poke Cake
We’re excited to explore coconut poke cake, a dessert loved worldwide for its taste and look. It started in the United States and is now a hit at parties. In Hawaii, it’s a favorite at Luaus, showing off the islands’ culture and food.
The history of poke cakes is rich and interesting. “Poke” means poking holes in the cake and filling them with creamy mix. This method has led to many poke cakes, like the coconut one. The cake history spans many cultures and places.
Some key facts about coconut poke cake include:
- It’s a versatile dessert that can be customized with different flavors and toppings
- It’s a great option for special occasions, such as birthdays and weddings
- It’s a popular dessert in Hawaii, where it’s often served at luaus and traditional events
What is Coconut Poke Cake?
A coconut poke cake is a mix of coconut and sweet condensed milk. It’s moist and creamy, perfect for coconut fans. The coconut cake is a favorite among dessert lovers for its unique taste and texture.
History of Poke Cakes
Poke cakes have a long and interesting history, starting with traditional American desserts. Over time, different cultures and places have shaped poke cakes. Today, they’re enjoyed globally, with coconut poke cake being a top choice.
| Type of Cake | Origin | Popular Toppings |
|---|---|---|
| Coconut Poke Cake | United States | Whipped cream, shredded coconut, toasted nuts |
| Traditional Poke Cake | United States | Condensed milk, chocolate chips, caramel sauce |
| Hawaiian Poke Cake | Hawaii | Coconut flakes, macadamia nuts, pineapple chunks |
Ingredients Needed for Coconut Poke Cake
For this recipe, we need to gather the right ingredients. We’ll need 1 box of white or yellow cake mix, 14 oz of cream of coconut, and 2 cups or more of sweetened shredded coconut. These ingredients are key to the cake’s taste and texture.
For extra flavor and texture, we can add some optional toppings. We can use 8 oz or 16 oz of Cool Whip as a topping, or sprinkle toasted coconut flakes for crunch. The recipe also suggests mixing cream of coconut with sweet condensed milk for sweetness. You can skip the sweet condensed milk if it’s too sweet.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 box of white or yellow cake mix
- 14 oz of cream of coconut
- 2 cups or more of sweetened shredded coconut
Optional Toppings
- 8 oz or 16 oz of Cool Whip
- Toasted coconut flakes
- Sweet condensed milk
With these ingredients and optional toppings, we can make a tasty and unique dessert. The mix of cream of coconut sweetened shredded coconut, and Cool Whip gives a rich, creamy flavor. It’s sure to impress on any occasion.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cream of Coconut | 14 oz |
| Sweetened Shredded Coconut | 2 cups or more |
| Cool Whip | 8 oz or 16 oz |
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Following the instructions carefully, we first, we bake the cake. This involves mixing the ingredients and baking them in the oven. We use a 15.25 oz box of white cake mix, 3 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, and ½ cup of vegetable oil.
The cake is baked at 350°F for about 25 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick comes out clean.
After baking, we make the coconut mixture. We mix 1 box of coconut cream instant pudding, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 can of cream coconut, and 1 can of sweetened condensed milk. This mixture is poured over the cake, covering it completely.
We also poke holes in the cake with a fork. This lets the coconut mixture soak in, making the cake moist and flavorful.
- Shake the can of coconut milk well before opening to ensure even soaking in the cake.
- Use a fork to poke holes in the cake surface, allowing for better milk mixture distribution.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 6 hours, but it’s recommended to refrigerate it overnight for better results.
By following these steps and using the right ingredients, we can create a delicious and moist coconut poke cake. It’s perfect for warm-weather gatherings and holiday parties.
How to Assemble the Coconut Poke Cake
Assembling the cake is key to a delicious coconut poke cake. We’ll show you how to poke the cake and add the coconut mixture. This way, your cake will be moist and full of flavor.
To assemble the cake, you need to poke it right. Use a wooden skewer or chopstick to make holes. Make sure not to poke too hard to avoid damaging the cake.
Poking the Cake
Poking the cake is simple but requires care. Start by making holes about 1-2 inches apart. This creates a grid that lets the coconut mixture spread evenly.
Adding the Coconut Mixture
After poking the cake, it’s time to add the coconut mixture. This mix includes sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, and whipped cream. It’s what makes the cake taste so good. Pour it slowly over the poked cake to cover it all.
Here are some tips for assembling the cake:
- Choose a high-quality coconut mixture for the best taste.
- Poke the cake gently to keep it intact.
- Pour the coconut mixture slowly to avoid spills.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll make a delicious coconut poke cake. It’s sure to impress everyone. Remember to refrigerate the cake for 2-4 hours or overnight to let the flavors mix well.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Yellow cake mix | 1 package |
| Flaked coconut | 1 cup |
| Sour cream | 1 cup |
| Whipped topping | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 cup |
Tips for Achieving Moistness
To make our coconut poke cake moist, we must focus on a few key steps. Soaking the cake is crucial. It lets the cake soak up all the flavors and moisture, making it deliciously moist.
Choosing the right ingredients is also essential. We should use top-quality items like fresh coconut and real vanilla extract. Soaking the cake in a mix of coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk adds more moisture and flavor.
Here are some extra tips for a moist cake:
- Don’t overbake the cake, as this can cause it to dry out.
- Use the right amount of liquid in the recipe to ensure the cake is moist but not too wet.
- Let the cake cool completely before refrigerating it, as this can help it retain its moisture.
By following these tips and using the right ingredients, you can make a moist and tasty coconut poke cake. Remember, soaking the cake and using high-quality ingredients are key to achieving the perfect texture and flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Coconut milk | 1 cup |
| Sweetened condensed milk | 1/2 cup |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
Flavor Variations for Coconut Poke Cake
We love trying new flavors for our coconut poke cake. Adding tropical ingredients like pineapple or mango works great. They pair well with coconut and add a sweet touch.
Exploring different frostings is another fun way to change things up. We’ve used whipped cream, chocolate ganache, and cream cheese frosting. These frostings bring extra flavor and texture, making the cake more exciting. Some favorites include chocolate cake with whipped topping and shaved chocolate, or lemon cake with whipped topping and lemon zest.
Here are a few more ideas for flavor variations:
- Strawberry cake mix with whipped topping and flaked coconut
- Carrot cake mix with cream cheese frosting and chopped nuts
- Pumpkin cake mix with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice
By trying these different flavors, you can make a coconut poke cake that’s uniquely yours. Don’t be shy to experiment and find your favorite mix. With a bit of creativity, you can elevate this classic dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a coconut poke cake, it’s key to know common mistakes. One big error is overbaking the cake. This makes it dry and crumbly. Always follow the recipe’s baking time and temperature.
Another mistake is not poking deep enough into the cake. This stops the coconut mixture from spreading evenly. Use a skewer or fork to poke holes deep into the cake.
By avoiding these mistakes, your coconut poke cake will be moist and tasty. Always stick to the recipe and make sure to poke holes deep enough. With practice, you’ll make a cake that impresses everyone.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Keep the cake fresh by storing it in the fridge. Use an airtight container to prevent drying. This keeps the cake moist and fresh for longer.
The cake is perfect for Easter, church dinners, or potlucks. It’s also great for welcoming a new baby or offering comfort during tough times. The whipped topping adds a lovely touch for spring dinners.
How to Store Leftovers
For leftovers, place the cake in an airtight container and refrigerate. Freezing can affect the texture when thawed. Proper storage lets you enjoy the cake for days.
Perfect Pairings
The coconut poke cake goes well with many drinks and toppings. Here are some great pairings:
- Coffee: a classic combo that complements the cake’s sweetness
- Ice cream: vanilla or coconut ice cream adds a delightful twist
- Fresh fruit: strawberries or blueberries add color and flavor
By following these tips, you can enjoy your coconut poke cake longer. It’s sure to be a hit at your next event.
| Storage Method | Shelf Life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerate | 3-5 days |
| Freeze | Not recommended |
Nutritional Information
We want to give you all the nutritional information you need about the coconut poke cake. Knowing the ingredients and portion sizes helps us understand its nutritional value. With about 499kcal per serving, it’s key to consider the calories and macros.
Looking closer at the cake’s nutritional content, we find:
- Calories: 499kcal
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Cholesterol: 49mg
- Sodium: 273mg
- Potassium: 229mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 49g
To make the cake healthier, think about using less sugar or non-dairy milk. Being aware of the cake’s nutritional content helps you enjoy it while keeping your health in mind.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 499kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 63g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 21g |
| Cholesterol | 49mg |
| Sodium | 273mg |
| Potassium | 229mg |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugar | 49g |
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Coconut Poke Cake!
As we wrap up our journey through the delectable world of Coconut Poke Cake, we encourage you to share this indulgent dessert with your friends and family. This cake is the perfect centerpiece for any special occasion, from birthdays to holiday gatherings. The moist, coconut-infused sponge, combined with the creamy topping, is sure to delight everyone’s taste buds.
Making the Coconut Poke Cake from scratch is a rewarding experience. It lets you control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. Whether you opt for tropical additions or experiment with alternative frostings, the possibilities are endless. We hope you’ll enjoy the process of baking and assembling this cake, savoring each bite and creating lasting memories with your loved ones.
In the end, the Coconut Poke Cake is more than just a dessert – it’s a celebration of the simple pleasures in life. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let’s indulge in the sweet, coconutty goodness that this recipe has to offer. Bon appétit!
FAQ
What is a coconut poke cake?
A coconut poke cake is a moist and flavorful dessert. It’s made by baking a cake, and then soaking it with a creamy coconut mixture.
What is the history of poke cakes?
Poke cakes were popular in the 1970s. They were known for being moist and flavorful. The coconut poke cake adds tropical flavors to this tradition.
What are the essential ingredients for a coconut poke cake?
You’ll need flour, sugar, eggs, butter, coconut milk, and shredded coconut. You can also add pineapple or chocolate ganache for extra flavor.
How do you bake the cake and make the coconut mixture?
Bake the cake using a standard recipe. Then, mix coconut milk, sugar, and shredded coconut for the coconut mixture. Pour it over the cake.
How do you assemble the coconut poke cake?
Poke holes in the cake with a skewer or chopstick. Then, pour the coconut mixture over it. This ensures the cake soaks up the flavors.
What are the tips for achieving a moist coconut poke cake?
Use quality ingredients and don’t overbake. Make sure the coconut mixture soaks into the cake well.
What are some flavor variations for coconut poke cake?
Add tropical fruits like pineapple or mango. Try different frostings, like whipped cream or chocolate ganache.
What are common mistakes to avoid when making a coconut poke cake?
Avoid overbaking and not poking holes deep enough. Also, make sure the cake soaks in the coconut mixture well.
How should you store and serve the coconut poke cake?
Store it in the fridge and serve chilled. It’s great with coffee, ice cream, or other desserts.
What are the nutritional benefits of the coconut poke cake?
While rich, you can make it healthier by swapping ingredients. It can still be part of a balanced diet.