The Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake is a dessert that will make your taste buds dance like you just won the lottery. Imagine velvety cream cheese mingling with a moist cake and luscious cherry topping, creating a symphony of flavors that’s as delightful as finding a $20 bill in your old jeans. no bake raspberry cheesecake jars This cake is not just a treat; it’s an experience that takes you back to family gatherings, where laughter and sweet indulgence went hand in hand.
Whether it’s a summer picnic, holiday celebration, or a random Tuesday when you need to cheer yourself up, this Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake is the solution. You’ll want to whip this up for any occasion because who wouldn’t want to impress their friends with such a heavenly creation? Let’s dive into the wonder of this dessert, and I promise you’ll be counting down the minutes until it’s ready to devour. strawberry shortcake cheesecake roll.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake is quick to prepare, allowing you to satisfy your sweet tooth with minimal effort
- Its creamy texture and fruity flavor create a delightful balance that everyone loves
- The vibrant cherry topping adds stunning visual appeal, making it perfect for serving at gatherings
- Versatile enough for any occasion, this cake can be enjoyed year-round, no matter the season
I once made this Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake for my best friend’s surprise birthday party. The look on her face was priceless when she took that first bite! For more inspiration, check out this Heavenly Banana Caramel Crunch Cheesecake recipe.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boxed Yellow Cake Mix: Choose your favorite brand for simplicity; they all work well in this recipe. For more inspiration, check out this Cheesy Stuffed Pretzels Recipe recipe.
- Eggs: Large eggs are perfect here; they help bind the cake beautifully.
- Water: Use room temperature water for optimal mixing; it helps create a moist texture.
- Cream Cheese: Soften it at room temperature for easy blending into your cheesecake layer.
- Granulated Sugar: This sweetness balances perfectly with the tart cherries; don’t skimp!
- Cherry Pie Filling: Opt for high-quality filling for that burst of flavor; fresh cherries can also be used if in season.
- Whipped Topping: Use store-bought or homemade whipped cream for a light finish.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances all flavors wonderfully; use pure extract if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Cake Base: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter. Prepare the yellow cake mix according to package instructions by combining it with eggs and water until smooth.
Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Allow it to cool slightly but not completely before proceeding.
Poke Holes in the Cake: Using the handle of a wooden spoon or similar tool, poke holes all over the top of the warm cake. Aim for about an inch apart; these holes will hold onto all that delicious cheesecake filling.
Create the Cheesecake Layer: In a mixing bowl, beat together softened cream cheese and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and mix again until combined. Spread this creamy goodness evenly over the poked holes in your cake.
Add Cherry Topping: Spoon cherry pie filling generously over the cheesecake layer, ensuring every bite gets some fruity goodness. Don’t be shy; go wild with those cherries!
Chill Before Serving: Cover your masterpiece with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight if time allows. This chilling time allows flavors to meld beautifully and makes serving easier.
Now you’re ready! Slice up generous portions of this Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake and watch as everyone marvels at your culinary prowess! Enjoy every last crumb while basking in compliments from friends and family alike! lemon lime cherry pistachio cheesecake.
You Must Know
- This Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake combines delightful flavors and textures, making it a crowd-pleaser
- The cake’s moistness and creamy topping create a perfect balance
- It’s not just delicious; it’s visually stunning, too, bringing joy to any gathering
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by baking the cake according to the package instructions. While it cools, prepare the cheesecake filling to infuse flavors throughout. Once the cake has cooled, poke holes and pour cherry filling over it to soak in all that fruity goodness.
Add Your Touch
Consider swapping cherry filling for blueberries or strawberries for a different flavor profile. You can also add whipped cream on top or even chocolate shavings to elevate the dessert further. chocolate cherry cookies.
Storing & Reheating
Store your Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For a refreshing treat, serve chilled without reheating.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To ensure your poke cake is extra moist, let it sit overnight in the fridge before serving
- If you’re short on time, use store-bought cherry pie filling for convenience
- Remember to poke deep holes so that the filling seeps into every bite!
Sometimes, I whip this Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake for birthdays, and everyone asks for seconds! It’s always heartwarming to see loved ones enjoy something I created.
FAQ
What kind of cake mix should I use for this recipe?
Use a classic vanilla or yellow cake mix for the best flavor combination.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it a day in advance; it tastes even better after chilling overnight.
How do I prevent my cake from drying out?
Make sure to poke enough holes and let it absorb the cherry filling well.
Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Easy Cherry Cheesecake Poke Cake, where moist yellow cake meets a rich cream cheese layer and a vibrant cherry topping. This no-fuss dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weeknight treats. With its creamy texture and fruity burst, it’s sure to impress your guests and keep them coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup water
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 can cherry pie filling (21 oz)
- 8 oz whipped topping
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Prepare the yellow cake mix as per package instructions using eggs and water. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool slightly.
- Poke holes in the warm cake using a wooden spoon handle, spacing about an inch apart.
- In a bowl, blend softened cream cheese with sugar and vanilla until smooth. Spread evenly over the poked holes.
- Top generously with cherry pie filling.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 120g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: For a different flavor profile, swap cherry filling with blueberries or strawberries. Add whipped cream on top or sprinkle chocolate shavings for an extra treat. Ensure deep holes are poked in the cake to allow maximum soaking.