Name: Toasted Coconut Poke Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 box white cake mix (15.25 ounces); 1 cup water (as per box instructions); 3 large eggs (as per box instructions); 1/3 cup oil (as per box instructions); 5 ounces sweetened condensed milk; 1 cup coconut milk; 3.4 ounces instant coconut cream pudding mix; 2 cups 2% milk; 8 ounces Cool Whip (thawed); 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut (toasted)

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If you’re a fan of coconut, you’re going to love this Toasted Coconut Poke Cake! This heavenly dessert combines fluffy white cake with a luscious coconut filling, creating a satisfying treat that’s both beautiful and utterly delicious. With its rich flavor and creamy texture, this cake is perfect for potlucks, birthdays, or simply to enjoy with a cup of coffee on a cozy afternoon.

Imagine each slice revealing a moist cake that’s soaked with a delightful coconut mixture, topped with a light and airy whipped topping and a generous sprinkle of toasted coconut. Grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Toasted Coconut Poke Cake is a delightful blend of textures and flavors. The fluffy white cake acts as a perfect canvas for the creamy coconut filling, ensuring every bite is a heavenly blend of sweetness. The toasted coconut adds a nutty crunch that perfectly complements the softness of the cake, making this dessert an irresistible choice for coconut lovers. Plus, it’s simple to make, requiring minimal prep time and effort while delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients

To create this delectable Toasted Coconut Poke Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 box (15.25 ounces) white cake mix
Ingredients required to prepare the cake mix (as per the box instructions)
5 ounces sweetened condensed milk
1 cup coconut milk
3.4 ounces instant coconut cream pudding mix
2 cups 2% milk
8 ounces Cool Whip, thawed (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded sweetened coconut, toasted (see note below)

Note: Toasting your coconut enhances its flavor and adds a delightful crunch, so don’t skip this step!

How To Make Toasted Coconut Poke Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. In a large mixing bowl, prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions, which typically includes adding eggs, water, and oil. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Poke the Cake

Once your cake has cooled completely, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the cake, about 1-inch apart. Be sure not to poke all the way through to the bottom, as you want to create pockets for the coconut filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Coconut Mixture

In a medium bowl, combine the sweetened condensed milk, coconut milk, and instant coconut cream pudding mix. Whisk together until smooth and well combined. Then, slowly pour this coconut mixture over the poked cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Spread it evenly over the surface, allowing it to soak into the cake.

Step 4: Chill the Cake

Cover the cake with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but ideally overnight. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld and the cake to absorb the coconut mixture fully.

Step 5: Top with Cool Whip and Toasted Coconut

After chilling, take the cake out of the refrigerator and spread the thawed Cool Whip evenly over the top of the cake. Then, sprinkle the toasted shredded coconut generously over the Cool Whip layer. For an extra touch, you can toast some additional coconut to sprinkle on top just before serving.

Expert Tips

For a more intense coconut flavor, use full-fat coconut milk instead of 2% milk in the pudding mix.
Make sure to toast the coconut until it’s golden brown, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
If you want to make this cake in advance, consider making the cake and the coconut filling the day prior, but wait to add the Cool Whip and toasted coconut until just before serving for the best texture.
For a fun presentation, garnish individual slices with fresh coconut or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.

Variations and Customizations

Add crushed pineapple to the coconut mixture for a pineapple coconut poke cake twist.
For a chocolate version, use a chocolate cake mix and substitute chocolate pudding mix in place of the coconut cream pudding.
Incorporate different textures by adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the cake layer.
Try incorporating lime juice and zest to add a refreshing citrus twist to the coconut flavor.

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftover Toasted Coconut Poke Cake, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. The cake is best enjoyed within 3-4 days, but it can last up to a week. Just keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, but the flavors will still be delightful!

FAQ

What is a poke cake?

A poke cake is a type of cake that is baked and then “punched” or poked with holes, allowing a liquid mixture to fill the holes and soak into the cake. This creates a moist and flavorful dessert.

Can I use a different flavor of cake mix?

Absolutely! While the white cake mix complements the coconut flavor beautifully, you can experiment with other flavors like vanilla, lemon, or even chocolate for a different twist.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! You can use a gluten-free white cake mix to make this poke cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I freeze this cake?

While it’s best to consume the cake fresh, you can freeze the un-frosted cake for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the refrigerator before adding the toppings. The cream topping is best not frozen, as it may change in texture when thawed.

Conclusion

This Toasted Coconut Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that is simple to make yet impressive enough to wow your guests. With its rich coconut flavors and creamy texture, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering. The combination of the soft cake with a sweet and creamy filling, topped with the crunch of toasted coconut, will leave everyone reaching for seconds. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this tropical dessert escape, and enjoy the sunny flavors in every bite!

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