St. Patrick’s Day Poke Cake Recipe

St. Patrick’s Day Poke Cake is the perfect dessert or even a sweet breakfast treat to celebrate this lively holiday! With its bright green color and moist, flavorful texture, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a festive treat, this cake will surely bring a touch of Irish charm to your table.

What is a Poke Cake?

A poke cake is exactly what it sounds like—a cake that’s baked, poked with holes, and then filled with a flavored liquid, such as gelatin, pudding, or sweetened milk. The result? A super moist and flavorful cake with a beautiful marbled effect inside. This technique has been around since the 1970s and remains a favorite for its simplicity and versatility.

For St. Patrick’s Day, we’re making a lime-flavored poke cake to match the festive green theme!

Ingredients for St. Patrick’s Day Poke Cake

Cake Base

✔ 1 box white cake mix (15.25 oz)
✔ Eggs, oil, and water (as per cake mix instructions)

Green Poke Filling

✔ 1 package lime-flavored gelatin (3 oz)
✔ 1 cup boiling water
✔ ½ cup cold water

Topping

✔ 1 container whipped topping (8 oz, thawed)
✔ Green sprinkles or candies (for decoration)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (or 325°F for dark/nonstick pans).
2. Prepare the white cake mix according to package instructions.
3. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan.
4. Bake for 28-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
5. Let the cake cool for 15 minutes before proceeding.

2. Prepare the Gelatin Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, dissolve lime gelatin in 1 cup of boiling water.
2. Stir until fully dissolved, then add ½ cup cold water.
3. Mix well and set aside.

3. Poke the Cake

1. Using the handle of a wooden spoon (or a fork), poke holes evenly across the cake.
2. Make sure the holes go deep enough for the gelatin to seep in.

4. Pour in the Gelatin

1. Slowly pour the prepared lime gelatin mixture over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 3 hours to allow the gelatin to set.

5. Frost and Decorate

1. Once the cake is chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the cake.
2. Add green sprinkles, candies, or St. Patrick’s Day decorations for a festive touch.

6. Serve and Enjoy!

• Slice and serve chilled.
• The result? A moist, flavorful, and colorful cake that’s perfect for celebrating!

Fun Variations

💡 Try different flavors – Switch up the gelatin! Lemon or green apple can add a fun twist.
💡 Make it boozy – Add a splash of Irish cream liqueur to the whipped topping for an adult version.
💡 Use homemade whipped cream – Beat heavy cream + sugar for a fresh, rich topping.
💡 Turn it into cupcakes – Bake in muffin tins and drizzle gelatin into each one for individual servings!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

✔ Refrigerate: Store the cake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.
✔ Make-Ahead: You can bake the cake a day in advance, add the gelatin, and refrigerate. Just frost it before serving.
✔ Freeze: This cake can be frozen (before adding the whipped topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and frost before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a different cake mix?

Yes! While white cake keeps the color vibrant, yellow or vanilla cake also work.

What if I don’t like lime?

You can swap lime gelatin for lemon, green apple, or even vanilla pudding for a different flavor.

How do I get the whipped topping to look fancy?

Use a piping bag or a spatula to create swirls and textures. Adding gold sprinkles can give it a festive touch!

Is this cake good for a large party?

Absolutely! A 9×13 cake serves about 12-16 people, making it perfect for gatherings.

Conclusion

St. Patrick’s Day Poke Cake is a fun, easy, and festive dessert that’s perfect for celebrating the holiday! Whether you’re making it for a party or just for fun, this cake is guaranteed to bring smiles with its vibrant colors and delicious taste. Give it a try, and let the St. Paddy’s Day magic begin! 🍀🎂