The Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake is a show-stopping dessert that brings together the richness of red velvet cake with the refreshing kick of peppermint. This easy-to-make cake is ideal for the holiday season, combining layers of flavor and a beautiful visual appeal. The poke cake method, where holes are poked into the cake and filled with a creamy mixture, ensures that every bite is extra moist and flavorful. Topped with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, and optional chocolate shavings, this cake is sure to delight your taste buds and leave everyone asking for the recipe!
Why You Will Love Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake
This cake is everything you want in a holiday dessert:
- Festive Red Velvet: The deep red color makes it the perfect centerpiece for Christmas, New Year’s, or any winter celebration.
- Peppermint Flavor: The filling is infused with peppermint, giving it that cool, refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with the richness of the red velvet cake.
- Creamy and Moist: The poke method allows the filling to seep into every crevice of the cake, creating an ultra-moist and indulgent treat.
- Simple and Quick: This cake is incredibly easy to make, especially with the help of a boxed cake mix. It’s a great choice for busy holidays when you want to impress without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Let’s dive into making this festive treat!
Ingredients Notes For Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake
For the Cake
- 1 box red velvet cake mix, plus the ingredients listed on the box (typically eggs, oil, and water) – the base of the cake, offering a soft, tender crumb with that classic red hue.
For the Filling
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk – provides a creamy, sweet base that soaks into the cake, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- 1/2 tsp peppermint extract – gives the filling a refreshing, minty flavor that complements the rich red velvet cake.
For the Topping
- 1 8 oz tub whipped topping, thawed – adds a light and fluffy finish to the cake, balancing out the richness of the filling and cake.
- 1 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes – for a crunchy, minty topping that adds both texture and festive flair.
- Optional: Chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips – to add a bit of chocolatey decadence to the cake for extra flavor contrast.
How to Make Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or straw
- Small mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Refrigerator (for chilling)
Step-by-Step Instructions For Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the red velvet cake mix box, usually 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent the cake from sticking. Follow the instructions on the box to prepare the cake batter by mixing the cake mix, eggs, oil, and water in a large bowl. Once combined, pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake according to the package instructions, typically around 28-32 minutes.
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 2: Poke the Cake
After the cake has cooled slightly, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a drinking straw to poke holes all over the cake. Make sure to space the holes about 1 inch apart. Poking the holes helps the filling soak into the cake, making it extra moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Add the Filling
In a small bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk with the peppermint extract. Stir well until the mixture is fully blended. Carefully pour the peppermint milk mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes. Use a spatula to gently spread it over the surface if needed. The filling will seep deep into the cake, infusing it with a minty, creamy flavor.
Once the filling has been added, cover the cake and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours, or until well chilled. This allows the filling to fully soak into the cake and firm up the whipped topping later.
Step 4: Top the Cake
After the cake has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator. Spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake. You can use a spatula to create a smooth, even layer or get creative with a decorative swirl.
Once the whipped topping is spread, generously sprinkle the crushed peppermint candies or candy canes on top. The peppermint crunch adds a wonderful texture and a refreshing minty flavor that complements the richness of the red velvet cake. For an extra touch of decadence, you can also add chocolate shavings or mini chocolate chips on top for a delightful chocolate-mint combination.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the cake into squares and serve chilled. This cake is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy during the festive season. Its combination of creamy filling, soft cake, and refreshing mint flavor will leave everyone craving more!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Tips
- Serve Cold: This cake is best served chilled, so make sure to allow it to cool completely in the fridge before serving.
- Garnish: To make it even more festive, you can top each slice with a dollop of extra whipped topping, a sprinkle of crushed peppermint, or even a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Pairing: Serve with a cup of hot chocolate, a warm latte, or even a cold glass of milk for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the leftover cake in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
- Freezing: While this cake is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. To serve, thaw the slices in the fridge overnight.
Variations
- Chocolate Peppermint Poke Cake: Add cocoa powder to the cake mix to create a chocolate version of this treat. The chocolate flavor pairs beautifully with the peppermint filling and topping.
- Lighter Option: Use a low-fat whipped topping or make your own whipped cream for a lighter topping.
- Nutty Twist: Sprinkle crushed pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunchy texture that complements the peppermint.
- Ice Cream Version: For an even cooler treat, serve slices of this poke cake with a scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream.
Helpful Notes
- Ensure Proper Cooling: Allow the cake to cool for about 10 minutes before poking holes, as this ensures that the cake doesn’t crumble when poked.
- Use Full-Fat Whipped Topping: For the best texture and flavor, opt for a full-fat whipped topping instead of the lighter versions.
- Mix Filling Well: Make sure the sweetened condensed milk and peppermint extract are fully combined before pouring it over the cake to avoid uneven flavor distribution.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Martha Stewart’s Tip: For a beautiful presentation, use a spoon to gently swirl the whipped topping into a decorative pattern before adding the crushed peppermint.
- Ina Garten’s Tip: To prevent the cake from becoming soggy, make sure the filling mixture has fully soaked in before topping with the whipped cream. If the filling is too liquid, it may not absorb properly into the cake.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a homemade red velvet cake instead of a box mix?
Yes, you can make a homemade red velvet cake using your favorite recipe if you prefer not to use a box mix.
2. How long does the cake need to chill?
The cake should chill for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to fully absorb and the cake to firm up. For best results, you can refrigerate it overnight.
3. Can I use sugar-free sweetened condensed milk?
Yes, you can substitute with sugar-free sweetened condensed milk if you prefer a lower-sugar version of this dessert.
4. How can I make the peppermint flavor more intense?
You can increase the amount of peppermint extract in the filling to enhance the peppermint flavor, but be careful not to overpower the cake.
5. Can I make the poke cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day ahead of time and stored in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
The Red Velvet Peppermint Poke Cake is the perfect combination of festive, refreshing, and indulgent. With its moist, flavorful layers, creamy filling, and minty topping, it’s sure to be a hit at any holiday gathering. Enjoy every delicious bite and share it with friends and family for a truly memorable treat!
