Heavenly Banana Pudding Poke Cake for Sweet Celebrations
Enjoy this indulgent Banana Pudding Poke Cake, featuring layers of cake, pudding, and bananas, perfect for any celebration.
Equipment
- Baking Pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- - Spoon
Ingredients
For the Cake
- Cooking Spray Ensures the cake doesn’t stick to the pan for easy removal.
- Flour Assists in the cake's structure; all-purpose flour works perfectly.
- 1 box Yellow Cake Mix Follow the package directions for added ingredients.
For the Pudding
- 2 boxes Vanilla Pudding Mix Instant pudding is the most convenient option.
- 3 cups Milk Whole or 2% milk is recommended for richness.
For the Topping
- 2 cups Heavy Cream Creates a rich, fluffy topping; can substitute with whipped topping.
- 2 Tbsp. Sugar Enhances sweetness; powdered sugar can be used.
- 1 tsp. Vanilla Extract Pure vanilla is preferred for authenticity.
For the Fruit and Crunch
- 3 Bananas, Thinly Sliced Choose ripe but firm bananas to maintain structure.
- 20 pieces Nilla Wafers, 4 Crushed Provides a delightful crunch; other wafer types can be swapped.
Instructions
How to Make Banana Pudding Poke Cake
- Preheat the oven as directed on the yellow cake mix box. While it heats, generously coat your baking pan with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the yellow cake according to the instructions on the box, then pop it in the oven. Bake until golden brown, usually around 25-30 minutes. Let it cool for about 10 minutes afterward.
- Poke holes in the cooled cake using the handle of a wooden spoon. Space them evenly across the surface to maximize flavor infusion!
- Mix the pudding by whisking together the two boxes of vanilla pudding mix with 3 cups of milk until thickened. Pour it over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- Whip the heavy cream in a large bowl with sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. Spread this luscious topping over the pudding layer.
- Arrange the thinly sliced bananas on top of the whipped cream, then sprinkle crushed Nilla Wafers for that perfect crunch.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 4 hours before serving to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
Notes
Garnish with additional banana slices or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra special touch. This dessert is perfect to prepare a day in advance for better flavor.