Orange Poke Cake

This vibrant orange poke cake is a refreshing twist on a traditional dessert that brings sunshine to any occasion! 

The combination of moist cake, zesty orange Jell-O, and creamy vanilla frosting is absolutely irresistible. It’s full of classic creamsicle flavor.

It’s topped with a cloud-like layer of vanilla cream and crowned with fresh mandarin oranges. Trust me, this dessert looks as spectacular as it tastes. 

Once you try a slice, you’ll be hooked.

Why You’ll Love This Orange Poke Cake

Bursting with Citrus Goodness: The cake is infused with orange juice and Jell-O. The vibrant and refreshing citrus experience will remind you of sunny summer days.

Dreamy Texture: It features a unique combination of fluffy cake, a juice-soaked interior, and a cloud-like whipped topping.

Easy to Make: This recipe uses a simple boxed cake mix and minimal ingredients. It’s an effortless yet impressive dessert for any occasion.

Nostalgic Appeal: It captures the beloved taste of classic orange creamsicle popsicles in cake form.

Ingredients

• White or Yellow Cake Mix: It serves as the base of the cake. Either flavor works well with the orange additions.
  
• Orange Juice: It replaces water in the cake mix to add natural orange flavor and acidity.
  
• Vegetable Oil and Eggs: Standard binding ingredients provide moisture and structure to the cake batter.
  
• Orange Jell-O Powder: It soaks into the cake holes for bursts of orange flavor and color.
  
• Vanilla Instant Pudding Mix: It adds stability and vanilla flavor to complement the orange.
  
• Milk: It activates the pudding mix and creates the proper consistency for the frosting layer.
  
• Cool Whip: It lightens the frosting texture to make it easier to spread.
  
• Mandarin Orange Slices: They add fresh citrus flavor and decorative appeal.

How to Make Orange Poke Cake

This cake couldn’t possibly be easier!

1. Prepare the cake. Preheat oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, orange juice (replacing water), oil, and eggs. Mix until smooth and combined. Pour batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake according to package directions (about 25-30 minutes) or until a toothpick comes out clean.

2. Make the Jell-O filling. While the cake is baking, dissolve the orange Jell-O powder in 1 cup boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Add 1 cup cold water to the Jell-O mixture and stir. Set aside.

3. Poke. Once the cake has cooled slightly, use a fork or the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake. Pour the Jell-O mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak into the holes. Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours.

4. Make the frosting. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until it begins to thicken (about 2 minutes). Fold in the Cool Whip until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

5. Frost and garnish. Spread the vanilla pudding and Cool Whip mixture evenly over the chilled cake. Arrange the mandarin orange slices on top of the frosting as desired for a bright, fruity finish.

6. Serve. Slice, serve, and enjoy this refreshing cake topped with juicy mandarin oranges!

Tips for the Best Orange Poke Cake

This cake is tough to mess up, but these tips make it perfect.

• Try a cool poking technique. Use a wooden skewer or fork to create holes about 1/2 inch apart, and twist slightly to make them slightly larger. This ensures better Jell-O absorption.

• Watch the consistency. Ensure the Jell-O mixture is not too thick, as it may not distribute properly into the holes. Adjust the water ratio if necessary.

• Watch the temperature. Pour the Jell-O mixture slowly and evenly while it’s still liquid but not hot. This ensures even distribution throughout the cake.

• Make fantastic frosting. Ensure the cake is completely chilled before adding the frosting mixture to prevent melting. Fold the Cool Whip gently into the pudding to maintain fluffiness.

• Cut clean slices. Run your knife under hot water and wipe clean between cuts for neat, professional-looking servings.

• Try creative variations. Try using chocolate cake mix for a chocolate-orange combination, or substitute sugar-free ingredients for a lighter version. You can also use orange soda instead of orange juice for a different twist.

How to Store

Keep your leftover cake fresh with these tips.

To Store: Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The cool temperature will help maintain the cake’s moisture and prevent the whipped topping from breaking down.

To Freeze: For best results, freeze the unfrosted cake (after adding the Jell-O mixture) wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then prepare and add the fresh frosting and mandarin oranges.