Are you ready to embark on a journey to dessert heaven? Look no further than this delectable Banana Pudding Poke Cake recipe! Bursting with banana flavor and irresistible creamy goodness, this dessert masterpiece is bound to become a family favorite.

Why Banana Pudding Poke Cake?

Banana lovers rejoice! This dessert is a delightful fusion of classic banana pudding and moist cake layers, offering a symphony of flavors and textures in every bite. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this Banana Pudding Poke Cake is guaranteed to satisfy your dessert cravings

Ingredients :

Gather your ingredients to embark on this culinary adventure:

• Yellow cake mix: 1 box (15.25 oz)
• Overripe bananas: 3, mashed to perfection
• Water: ¾ cup
• Vegetable oil: ¼ cup
• Large eggs: 3, for richness and moisture
• Instant banana pudding: 2 packages (3.4 oz each)
• Milk: 4 cups (whole, 1%, or skim)
• Heavy whipping cream: 1 cup, for that luxurious texture
• Bananas: 2-3, sliced for freshness
• Cool Whip: 8 ounces, thawed for heavenly topping
• Vanilla wafers: 25, for that irresistible crunch

Directions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F and generously spray a 9×13 inch pan with cooking spray to ensure easy release.
2. Mix and Bake: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, mashed bananas, water, vegetable oil, and eggs. Beat the mixture for 2 minutes until smooth and well combined. Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for approximately 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool for 5 minutes.
3. Prepare the Pudding Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the instant banana pudding mix, milk, and heavy whipping cream until smooth and creamy.
4. Poke and Pour: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a knife, poke holes all over the cooled cake. Pour the prepared pudding mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes and covers the entire surface.
5. Chill and Layer: Cover the cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the pudding to set. Once chilled, arrange sliced bananas over the pudding layer, then spread the thawed Cool Whip over the bananas for a luscious topping.
6. Finishing Touches: Crush 4 or 5 vanilla wafers and sprinkle them over the top of the cake for an added crunch and visual appeal.
7. Slice and Serve: Cut the cake into 20 slices and serve each portion with additional banana slices and a vanilla wafer for the ultimate indulgence.

Serving Tips:

1. Presentation is Key: Arrange each slice of Banana Pudding Poke Cake on a dessert plate for a visually stunning presentation.
2. Garnish with Finesse: Before serving, add a final touch of elegance by garnishing each slice with a fresh banana slice and a whole vanilla wafer.
3. Pair with a Beverage: Complement the indulgent sweetness of the cake with a cup of hot coffee, a refreshing glass of milk, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration is Key: Due to the creamy pudding and whipped topping, store any leftover Banana Pudding Poke Cake in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.
2. Cover and Seal: To prevent the cake from drying out and absorbing odors from the refrigerator, tightly cover the pan with plastic wrap or transfer individual slices to an airtight container.
3. Enjoy Within a Few Days: For the best taste and texture, consume the leftover cake within 2-3 days of preparation. However, with its irresistible flavor, it’s unlikely to last that long!
4. Freezing Option: If you anticipate having leftovers for an extended period, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Frozen slices can be enjoyed for up to 1-2 months. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) :

1. Can I use homemade cake batter instead of a cake mix?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe as a substitute for the cake mix. Just ensure that it’s baked to perfection before proceeding with the recipe.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time for a special occasion?
   • Yes! Banana Pudding Poke Cake is perfect for making ahead of time. Simply prepare the cake, pudding mixture, and toppings as directed, then assemble the cake and refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Can I use instant pudding mix instead of the boxed pudding?
   • Yes, instant pudding mix works perfectly for this recipe. Follow the instructions on the pudding mix package to prepare it, then proceed with the recipe as directed.
4. I don’t have Cool Whip. Can I use homemade whipped cream instead?
   • Of course! Homemade whipped cream can be used as a delicious alternative to Cool Whip. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar until stiff peaks form, then spread it over the cake as directed.
5. How long does Banana Pudding Poke Cake last in the refrigerator?
   • When stored properly in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap, Banana Pudding Poke Cake can last for up to 2-3 days in the refrigerator. However, it’s so delicious that it’s unlikely to last that long!
6. Can I freeze Banana Pudding Poke Cake for later?
   • Yes, you can freeze individual slices of Banana Pudding Poke Cake for later enjoyment. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.