There’s something irresistibly decadent about a dessert that combines two classics into one indulgent treat—and this Red Velvet Poke Cake is the perfect example. Picture it: a luscious red velvet cake layered with rich fudge brownies, each bite soaked in sweetened condensed milk, and topped with a velvety cream cheese frosting that could put any bakery to shame.
I first stumbled upon this delightful creation while searching for a way to switch up my dessert game, and boy, did it deliver! The vibrant red hue always brings a festive cheer, making it perfect for celebrations or simply brightening a weeknight dinner. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself, this poke cake is a showstopper that’s surprisingly easy to whip up.
From the moment you pour the hot fudge drizzle on top, you’ll be captivated by the blend of flavors and textures. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for those times when only something divine will do!
Why is Red Velvet Poke Cake so special?
Decadent layers: Combining rich, velvety red velvet with fudgy brownies creates a dessert masterpiece that’s hard to resist.
Sweetened indulgence: The soak of sweetened condensed milk infuses every bite with delicious creaminess.
Easy preparation: With just a few steps, this cake is simple enough for any home cook to ace.
Crowd-pleaser: The vibrant color and luscious toppings make it perfect for celebrations or cozy gatherings.
Versatile dessert: Serve it warm, chilled, or topped with additional treats like sprinkles for a fun twist! Explore more tempting options in my collection of easy dessert recipes.
Red Velvet Poke Cake Ingredients
Prepare to indulge in this heavenly dessert!
For the Cake and Brownies
• Red velvet cake mix – a classic choice that lends a festive hue and rich flavor.
• Fudge brownie mix – adds a fudgy texture that perfectly complements the cake.
For the Soaking Mixture
• Sweetened condensed milk – this is what makes your Red Velvet Poke Cake irresistibly moist and creamy.
For the Frosting
• Cream cheese – at room temperature, it blends beautifully with Cool Whip for a luscious topping.
• Cool Whip – gives lightness to the frosting while providing that fluffy texture.
For the Garnish
• Hot fudge – drizzle over the top for an extra layer of decadence that everyone will love!
How to Make Red Velvet Poke Cake
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Prepare the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions. Bake it until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 28 minutes, and let it cool slightly.
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Make the fudge brownie mix according to the package instructions. Bake until the edges are firm but the center is still soft, about 25 minutes. Allow the brownies to cool for a bit.
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Poke holes in both the red velvet cake and fudge brownies with a fork. This is an important step! Make sure the holes are evenly spaced to allow for the sweetened condensed milk to soak in beautifully.
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Pour sweetened condensed milk over both desserts, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let them sit for about 10 minutes so that all that creamy goodness absorbs!
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Mix cream cheese and Cool Whip together in a bowl until smooth. This will create your frosting, making it light and fluffy—perfect for this indulgent treat!
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Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Don’t forget to cover every inch for that delightful flavor in each bite!
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Drizzle hot fudge generously over the frosted cake just before serving. This final touch adds a rich finish that elevates the dessert to pure bliss!
Optional: Top with crushed nuts or festive sprinkles for an extra pop of flavor and color!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Red Velvet Poke Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the cake and brownies up to 24 hours in advance. Just cool them after baking, poke holes, and pour the sweetened condensed milk over both treats, allowing them to soak properly. Store them tightly covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to frost—this helps maintain their moistness. For serving, mix the cream cheese and Cool Whip to create the frosting, then spread it over the cake before drizzling with hot fudge. Trust me, with these make-ahead steps, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Red Velvet Poke Cake
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Red Velvet Poke Cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap to keep it moist and protected from air.
Fridge: Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will keep the frosting fresh and delicious!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: To enjoy a warm slice, thaw your cake overnight in the fridge, then gently warm it in the microwave for about 20 seconds before serving with an extra drizzle of hot fudge!
What to Serve with Red Velvet Poke Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this rich dessert can make any meal feel special, so let’s elevate your dining experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coolness of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, balancing the cake’s richness with its light sweetness.
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Fresh Berries: Strawberries or raspberries add a pop of tartness and color, offering a refreshing contrast to the decadent layers.
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Chocolate Covered Strawberries: For an extra touch of indulgence, these bites are delightful and complement the chocolate notes of the cake beautifully.
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Hot Cocoa: A warm cup of hot cocoa rounds out the meal, enhancing the comfort of the cake with its rich and chocolatey flavors.
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Minted Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this adds a refreshing minty twist that brightens up the sweetness of the poke cake.
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Nutty Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this over the cake for a crunchy texture and caramel richness that takes your dessert to the next level.
Each of these pairings brings its own unique flair, ensuring your Red Velvet Poke Cake stands out as the star of your dessert table!
Tips for the Best Red Velvet Poke Cake
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Perfect Poking: Poke holes that are evenly spaced and deep enough for the sweetened condensed milk to soak in, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.
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Cool Cakes: Allow both the cake and brownies to cool slightly before poking. If they are too hot, the condensed milk will run off instead of soaking in.
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Frosting Texture: Mix cream cheese and Cool Whip until smooth and fluffy, which helps in spreading evenly and prevents the frosting from being too dense on the cake.
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Serve Warm or Cold: This Red Velvet Poke Cake tastes fantastic either way! Try it warm with ice cream or chilled for a refreshing treat.
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Decorative Toppings: Don’t hesitate to customize with crushed nuts, sprinkles, or even fresh berries to elevate the presentation and add exciting flavors to your dessert.
Red Velvet Poke Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize your Red Velvet Poke Cake to fit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute the cake and brownie mixes with a gluten-free version to enjoy this treat without worry. There are many great gluten-free mixes available now that don’t skimp on flavor!
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Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free condensed milk alternative and substitute cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese option. This way, all your dairy-free friends can enjoy a slice too!
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Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in chocolate chips into the brownie mix for an extra chocolatey surprise. The melty chips will bring a delightful twist to each bite.
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Minty Fresh: Add a few drops of mint extract to the cream cheese frosting for a refreshing mint chocolate experience. This variation can elevate your dessert to a whole new level!
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Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) on top of the frosting for a satisfying crunch. The contrast in texture is irresistible alongside the creamy layers.
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Berry Bliss: Layer fresh strawberries or raspberries on top of the frosting for a fruity twist. The bright berries not only add flavor but also a burst of color that’s perfect for spring celebrations.
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Extra Fudge Swirl: Incorporate a swirl of chocolate fudge sauce into the cream cheese frosting for a double-chocolate experience. This added richness will make your cake even more divine!
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Spicy Ginger: Mix ground ginger or cinnamon into the cake batter for a subtly spiced twist. It gives a warm flavor that can make this delightful treat feel even cozier.
Red Velvet Poke Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ingredients for my Red Velvet Poke Cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, select a high-quality red velvet cake mix that promises a rich flavor and vibrant color. If you can, look for a fudge brownie mix that has real chocolate as one of its first ingredients—this adds depth to the overall taste. Also, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature before mixing; this helps it blend smoothly with the Cool Whip, creating the perfect frosting.
What’s the best way to store Red Velvet Poke Cake?
Very! To keep your Red Velvet Poke Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Be sure it’s covered to retain moisture, as the frosting can dry out without proper protection. If left at room temperature, enjoy it within 2 days. Just remember, it needs to be kept away from direct sunlight to maintain its delightful flavors.
Can I freeze my Red Velvet Poke Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze this divine cake, start by letting it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, followed by a layer of foil for extra protection. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and then gently warm slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds to restore that just-baked feel.
What should I do if my cake is too dry?
Totally understandable! If you find your cake comes out drier than expected, the issue may arise from overbaking. Be sure to check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. In the future, you can also try evenly poking more holes in the cake for better sweetened condensed milk absorption. If it’s already baked, serving it with additional hot fudge can add moisture and flavor, giving your cake new life!
Is the Red Velvet Poke Cake suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For those looking to modify the recipe, you can opt for gluten-free cake and brownie mixes to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Just pay attention to the labels for any potential allergens. If you’re making a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut whipped cream instead of Cool Whip. Always check individual ingredients for specific allergies!
Can I make my own whipped topping instead of using Cool Whip?
Very much! If you prefer to make your own whipped topping, just beat 1 cup of heavy whipping cream with 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and a teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form. This homemade version is a fantastic alternative to Cool Whip and lends a fresh flavor to your frosted cake.
Decadent Red Velvet Poke Cake for Ultimate Indulgence
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the red velvet cake mix according to the package instructions. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, about 28 minutes, and let it cool slightly.
- Make the fudge brownie mix according to the package instructions. Bake until the edges are firm but the center is still soft, about 25 minutes. Allow the brownies to cool for a bit.
- Poke holes in both the red velvet cake and fudge brownies with a fork. Make sure the holes are evenly spaced to allow for the sweetened condensed milk to soak in beautifully.
- Pour sweetened condensed milk over both desserts, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb.
- Mix cream cheese and Cool Whip together in a bowl until smooth. This will create your frosting, making it light and fluffy.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Drizzle hot fudge generously over the frosted cake just before serving.