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Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake Recipe

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  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 servings
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Pumpkin Patch Poke Cake is a delightful autumn dessert featuring a moist spice cake infused with pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice. Holes are poked into the baked cake to soak up a cinnamon-spiced vanilla pudding, creating a rich and creamy center. Topped with whipped topping, caramel drizzle, and festive pumpkin-shaped candies, this cake is perfect for fall gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

Scale

Spice Cake

  • 1 box spice cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box) or homemade spice cake using your favorite recipe
  • 1 cup pumpkin puree
  • 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

Pudding Filling

  • 1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Topping and Garnish

  • 1 container (8 oz) whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
  • ½ cup caramel sauce (optional)
  • Pumpkin-shaped candies (for garnish)
  • Crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven according to the spice cake mix package instructions to ensure the cake bakes evenly.
  2. Mix the Batter: Prepare the spice cake mix as directed on the box. Stir in 1 cup of pumpkin puree and 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice to infuse warm autumn flavors into the batter.
  3. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into a 9×13-inch baking pan and bake as per the package directions until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Poke Holes in the Cake: After baking, let the cake cool slightly. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the surface, allowing the pudding to soak in deeply.
  5. Prepare and Pour Pudding: Whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix, 2 cups of cold milk, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon until thickened. Pour this pudding mixture evenly over the cake, ensuring it fills the poked holes.
  6. Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to let the pudding set inside the cake for a creamy, moist texture.
  7. Add Whipped Topping: Spread the 8 oz container of whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake to create a light and fluffy topping layer.
  8. Optional Garnishes: Drizzle ½ cup caramel sauce over the whipped topping if desired. Garnish with pumpkin-shaped candies and sprinkle with crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs for added texture and festive appeal.
  9. Serve: Slice the cake into 12 servings and serve chilled for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • For a homemade spice cake, use your favorite recipe in place of the boxed mix.
  • Ensure the cake is slightly cooled before poking holes to prevent breaking.
  • Use cold milk for the pudding to help it set properly.
  • Caramel sauce and garnishes are optional but add a nice decorative and flavor touch.
  • This cake can be made a day ahead and stored covered in the refrigerator.

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Find it online: https://familyfriendlydishes.com/pumpkin-patch-poke-cake-recipe/