Shamrock Delight Poke Cake

Shamrock Delight Poke Cake is the ultimate festive dessert for St. Patrick’s Day! This moist and fluffy cake is infused with vibrant green pudding and topped with a light, creamy whipped topping. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a burst of sweet, minty, or vanilla goodness, making it the perfect treat for celebrating the luck of the Irish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Festive and fun – Bright green color makes it perfect for St. Patrick’s Day.
• Super moist texture – The pudding filling keeps the cake extra soft and delicious.
• Easy to make – Uses simple ingredients and a fuss-free baking process.
• Customizable – Change flavors or toppings to suit your taste.
• Perfect for parties – Great for potlucks, gatherings, or a family celebration.

this Recipe

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Cake:

• White or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box)
• Green food coloring
• Vanilla or pistachio instant pudding mix
• Milk

For the Topping:

• Whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
• Green sprinkles or sanding sugar
• Crushed mint cookies (optional)
• Mini chocolate chips or chocolate drizzle (optional)

Directions

Make the Cake:

1. Preheat and Prepare
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter
   • Follow the instructions on the cake mix box to prepare the batter.
   • Stir in a few drops of green food coloring for a festive look.
3. Bake the Cake
   • Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake according to the box instructions (about 25-30 minutes).
   • Let the cake cool slightly.

Add the Pudding Filling:

4. Poke Holes in the Cake
   • Using the end of a wooden spoon or a straw, poke holes all over the cake.
5. Prepare the Pudding
   • Whisk the pudding mix with cold milk until slightly thickened.
6. Pour and Chill
   • Pour the pudding over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
   • Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the pudding set.

Add the Topping:

7. Frost with Whipped Topping
   • Spread the whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
8. Decorate
   • Sprinkle with green sprinkles, crushed cookies, or mini chocolate chips.
9. Serve and Enjoy
   • Slice and serve chilled for the best taste!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Makes 12-16 servings
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Bake Time: 25-30 minutes
• Chill Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes

Variations

• Mint Chocolate Poke Cake – Use mint pudding and add crushed Andes mints on top.
• Irish Cream Version – Add a splash of Bailey’s Irish Cream to the pudding mix.
• Pistachio Delight – Use pistachio pudding and chopped pistachios for a nutty twist.
• Chocolate Lovers – Use a chocolate cake base with green pudding filling.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use a gluten-free cake mix.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze slices for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
• Reheating: No reheating needed—serve chilled!

FAQs

Can I use homemade cake instead of a mix?

Yes! Use a simple vanilla or white cake recipe if you prefer homemade.

What’s the best way to poke holes in the cake?

Use the handle of a wooden spoon or a straw to create evenly spaced holes.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, it’s even better when made a day ahead and chilled overnight.

Can I use homemade whipped cream instead of Cool Whip?

Absolutely! Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar for a homemade alternative.

What if I don’t have green food coloring?

You can skip it, but the cake won’t have the festive green color.

Can I use a different pudding flavor?

Yes! Vanilla, pistachio, or even white chocolate pudding all work well.

How do I make the cake extra moist?

Make sure to pour the pudding while the cake is still slightly warm to absorb better.

Can I add alcohol to this cake?

Yes, add a splash of Irish cream or crème de menthe to the pudding mix for a boozy version.

Can I use frosting instead of whipped topping?

Yes, a light vanilla buttercream can work if you prefer a thicker topping.

What can I serve with this cake?

It pairs well with coffee, Irish coffee, or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Conclusion

Shamrock Delight Poke Cake is the perfect St. Patrick’s Day dessert, featuring a soft cake, creamy pudding filling, and a light whipped topping. It’s easy to make, deliciously moist, and full of festive green color. Try this fun and tasty cake for your holiday celebrations and bring a little luck to your dessert table!

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