What is a cake that’s not just dessert, but essentially an experience? What is a Unicorn Poke Cake? What is it like to be a kid again? If you love Funfetti cake but want something even more fun and outrageous, this is it. What are some of the best examples of moist, creamy, and delicious desserts? When I bring this to gatherings, it disappears in a flash – pure joy on ta plate!
What is a unicorn poke cake?
Is this a Chocolate Cake? Instead of grass, these holes are filled with a sweet, creamy mixture, usually sweetened. Condensed milk or pudding, that soaks into every single crumb. What do you do with a fluffy whipped topping? What are unicorns? What is the magic of a “poke” cake? The name, of course, comes from the explosion of pastel colors and the general whimsy it brings. Think of it as a Funfetti cake that went to raving and came back with another whole new level of flavor.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this Unicorn Poke Cake! First, the flavor is just incredible. It’s that classic vanilla cake taste we all know and love, but intensified by the creamy filling. It’s sweet, but not cloyingly so, and the sprinkles add a delightful little crunch.
But the real star here is the simplicity. Don’t let the vibrant colors fool you – this cake is surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re not a seasoned baker. You can even use a box mix to cut down on prep time, which is a lifesaver when you’re juggling a million other things (because who isn’t?). I’ve made it both ways, from scratch and with a box mix, and honestly, both are fantastic.
And let’s talk about cost-efficiency. The ingredients are pretty standard pantry staples, and you can easily find everything you need at your local grocery store. No fancy, hard-to-find items here! Plus, it’s so versatile! You can customize the colors, the sprinkles, even the flavor of the filling to suit your taste. Want a strawberry Unicorn Poke Cake? Use strawberry pudding! Chocolate? Go for it!
What I love most about this is how much joy it brings. It’s a total crowd-pleaser, and it’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just a random Tuesday when you need a little pick-me-up. Honestly, this Unicorn Poke Cake always puts a smile on everyone’s face, and that’s what makes it so special.
How do you make a unicorn poke cake?
Quick Overview
How do you make a unicorn poke cake? How do you poke holes in a cake? ), fill those holes with a creamy mixture, and top it all off with sprinkles and whipped cream. The whole process is super simple, and the result is a cake that looks like it came from heaven. Is there any real fairy tale to tell? How do you make a moist, flavorful cake? Is it hard to mess this one up?
Ingredients
For the Main Batter:
* 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, usually eggs, oil, and water)
*OR*
* 2 cups all-purpose flour * 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar * 3 1/2 teaspoons baking powder What is the recipe for 2 large eggs? Salt * 3/4 cup milk * 1/3 cup vegetable oil * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract If you’re using a box mix, follow the instructions on the box. For the from scratch version, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for best results. What is the best way to use vanilla extract?
For the Filling:
* 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk* 1 (3.0 oz.) teaspoons. 4 ounce) box instant vanilla pudding mix * 1 1/2 cups milk (I always use full-fat sweetened milk). Can you use low-fat condensed milk? Make sure you use instant pudding mix, not the cook and serve kind. How do I whisk everything together really well to avoid lumps.)
For the Glaze:
* 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed * Pastel food coloring (pink, blue, purple, etc.) ) * Rainbow sprinkles (For the whipped topping, I usually use Cool Whip, but you can also make your own). How do I start my own business from scratch? Gel food coloring works best for achieving vibrant colors without watering down the whipped topping. Don’t skimp on sprinkles (the more, the merrier)!
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. How do I prevent a cake from sticking? I even like to line the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance. If you’re making a cake, get this done first so your oven is ready to go when your batter is.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. Make sure everything is evenly distributed – this will help your cake rise properly. If you’re using a box mix, skip this step and follow the instructions on the box!
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the milk, oil, vanilla extract, and eggs. Set aside. Whisk until well combined and the eggs are fully incorporated. Don’t over-whisk, just make sure everything is nicely blended.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. How do you avoid overmixing a cake? I always stop mixing when I still see streaks of flour and then gently fold them in with a fork.
Step 5: Prepare Filling
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, instant vanilla pudding mix, and milk. Set aside. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly. If you want to get creative, you can use different flavors of pudding mix, like coconut or almond. I made a cookie and cream version last month and it was oh so good!
Step 6: Layer & Swirl
If you have a wooden skewer, pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the wooden knife inserted in the center comes out clean. In the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan. Once cool, use the handle of a wooden spoon or chopstick to poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch in diameter. If you have a large cake, pour the pudding mixture over it. Make sure it seeps into all the holes. Where does magic happen? I like to gently press down on the mixture with a spatula to help it soak in.
Step 7: Bake
I bake for 30 minutes or until skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark. If you want your cake to be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly touched, then you can use a silicone sponge.
Step 8: Cool & Glaze
Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting. Once cooled, spread the whipped topping over the top of the cake. Divide the whipped topping into separate bowls and tint each bowl with a different pastel food. Dollop the colored whipped topping onto the cake and swirl together with a knife or spatula. What are the best ways to sprinkle rainbow sprinkles?
Step 9: Slice & Serve
Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. How do you make a cake? What are some of the best ways to serve cold, and prepare for rave reviews?
What should I serve it with?
What is a unicorn poke cake? What are some good ideas for a new experience?For Breakfast:Pair a slice of bread with coffee. The sweetness of the cake balances out the bitterness of coffee perfectly. For a morning presentation, try cutting the cake into smaller squares and arranging them on trays. What is the best way to serve fresh berries?For Brunch:Serve alongside a platter of fresh fruit, yogurt parfaits, and mini quiches. What are some of the best sparkling drinks to drink? A light and airy drink complements the richness of the cake.As Dessert:What makes this dessert a showstopper? What is the true unicorn? Consider a dollop of extra whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for the ultimate unicorn.For Cozy Snacks:Sometimes you just need a slice of cake, and some good books! What’s better, a glass of cold milk or iced tea for dinner? My family loves this cake with a side of fresh strawberries. The tartness of berries cuts through the sweetness of the cake and creates a perfect balance. Is it a tradition in our house to serve this cake with strawberries on special occasions?
How do I make a unicorn poke cake?
What are some insider tips that I’ve learned from making this unicorn poke cake countless times?Cake Choice Matters: Why does cakeI like using white cake mix for my wedding cake. I’ve tried many different types of cake mixes, but I don’t think they are suitable for me. Most vibrant colors. Can yellow cake mix dull the pastel colors?How do I makeDon’t be afraid to poke holes in your cake! The more holes, the more of that delicious filling will soak in, resulting in a super moist and spongy fillet. What are some of the I use the handle of a wooden spoon, but any fork will work just fine.Coloring is the key to success.Is gel food coloring your best friend when it comes to achieving those vibrant pastel colors? Liquid food coloring can water down the whipped topping, making it difficult to swirl.Sprinkle Strategically: WhatDon’t just dump the sprinkles on top! Sprinkle them evenly over the top of the cake for a more visually appealing finish. I also like to press them gently into the whipped topping to help them adhere better.Chill Out:What is the best way to serve this cake cold? How do I make a whipped topping? How do I set up a computer?Don’t Overbake: Overbaking can result in a dry cake, which is the opposite of what we want! Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark and use a wooden skewer to test.
Ingredient Swaps: If you’re feeling adventurous, try swapping out the vanilla pudding mix for other flavors, like coconut, pistachio, or even chocolate. You can also use different types of milk, like almond milk or coconut milk, to add a unique flavor twist. I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
The first time I made this, I didn’t poke enough holes, and the filling didn’t distribute evenly. Now I poke holes like it’s my job! Also, be careful not to use too much food coloring, or your whipped topping will end up looking artificial. A little goes a long way!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This Unicorn Poke Cake is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t recommend storing this cake at room temperature for more than a few hours, especially if it’s warm. The whipped topping can melt and the cake can become soggy.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The whipped topping may lose some of its volume over time, but the cake will still taste delicious.
Freezer Instructions: You can freeze this cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. The whipped topping may not hold its shape perfectly after thawing, but it will still be tasty.
Glaze Timing Advice: I always recommend adding the whipped topping and sprinkles right before serving for the best presentation. If you know you’ll be storing the cake for a few days, you can wait to add the topping until then.
I made the mistake of freezing a slice without wrapping it properly, and it ended up with a nasty freezer burn taste. Now I double-wrap everything! Also, if you’re freezing the cake, don’t add the sprinkles until after it’s thawed – they can get soggy in the freezer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Honestly, this Unicorn Poke Cake is more than just a recipe; it’s a little slice of happiness. The vibrant colors, the creamy filling, and the sweet vanilla flavor are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. It’s perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any occasion when you need a little bit of magic in your life. And the best part is, it’s so easy to make! If you’re looking for a cake that’s both delicious and visually stunning, this is it. If you enjoyed this, you might also love my rainbow cupcakes or my confetti cookies! Happy baking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Leave a comment below and let me know what you think!
Unicorn Poke Cake: 7 Magical Tips for the Perfect Dessert!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 box White Cake Mix
- 1.25 cups Water
- 0.33 cup Vegetable Oil
- 3 Large Eggs
- 1 can Sweetened Condensed Milk 14 oz
- 1 tub Whipped Topping 8 oz, thawed
- Food Coloring Pink, blue, purple
- Sprinkles
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, combine cake mix, water, oil, and eggs. Beat until smooth.
- Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cake cool completely. Use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk over the cake, making sure to get into all the holes.
- Divide whipped topping into three bowls. Tint each bowl with a different food coloring.
- Spread each color of whipped topping over the cake in a swirl pattern. Sprinkle with sprinkles.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving.
