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–+ servings

Simple Christmas Cake (Poke Cake)

This cheerful holiday cake looks fancy but is secretly a lazy baker’s dream come true. With boxed white cake mix, bright layers of raspberry and lime Jell-O, and a cloud of whipped topping, it’s the easiest way to make Christmas sparkle—without breaking a sweat.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 12

EQUIPMENT (PAID LINKS)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 box 15.25 ounces white cake mix, plus ingredients listed on the box (usually 3 eggs, ½ cup oil, and 1 cup water)
  • 1 box 6 ounces raspberry Jell-O mix
  • 1 box 6 ounces lime Jell-O mix
  • 2 cups boiling water 1 cup per Jell-O flavor
  • 1 container 8 ounces frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • Christmas sprinkles crushed peppermint, or holiday candies for topping

Instructions

  • Bake the Cake: Prepare the cake batter following the directions on the box, usually combining the mix with eggs, oil, and water. Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and bake according to the package time, typically 25–30 minutes. When done, place the pan on a cooling rack and let it rest for about 15 minutes.
    1 box
  • Dissolve the Jell-O: While the cake cools, pour each Jell-O flavor into separate bowls. Add 1 cup of boiling water to each and whisk until completely dissolved and smooth.
    1 box, 1 box, 2 cups boiling water
  • Poke the Cake: Once the cake has cooled slightly, use a dinner fork to poke holes about 1 inch apart all over the top.
  • Add the Jell-O: Using a large spoon, pour the raspberry Jell-O over some of the holes, then the lime Jell-O over the remaining holes. Alternate colors to create a red-and-green pattern. You won’t need to use all the liquid—just enough so the Jell-O seeps into the holes.
  • Chill the Cake: Place the cake in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, or until the top is completely cooled and the Jell-O has slightly set.
  • Frost the Cake: Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the entire cake using a rubber spatula. Make sure the cake is fully cool before frosting so the topping doesn’t melt.
    1 container
  • Decorate: Add Christmas sprinkles, crushed peppermint, or your favorite festive toppings to finish it off.
    Christmas sprinkles
  • Serve and Store: Keep the cake chilled until ready to serve. Slice and serve cold. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freezing is not recommended, as the Jell-O may change texture.