Looking for a fun and festive dessert to celebrate Independence Day? This red, white, and blue Patriotic Poke Cake is the perfect 4th of July treat. Easy to make, full of flavor, and bursting with color, it’s ideal for summer gatherings, parties, and BBQs. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dessert.
You can also adapt the colors for other holidays like Christmas, Halloween, or Easter – making it a versatile recipe year-round.
Why You’ll Love This Poke Cake
- Bright and festive red, white, and blue colors
- Super easy to make using cake mix and instant pudding
- Perfect for July 4th, Memorial Day, and Labor Day
- Can be made ahead and stored
- Always a crowd-pleaser at celebrations
What Is a Poke Cake?
A poke cake is a classic American dessert where a baked cake is poked with holes and filled with a flavorful layer like jello, pudding, or sauce. It’s then topped with whipped cream or frosting. The fillings soak into the cake, making it moist and flavorful.
For this 4th of July version, we use cheesecake pudding and red/blue coloring for a festive look.
Ingredients
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box – eggs, water, oil)
- 2 (3.4 oz.) boxes instant cheesecake pudding (or white chocolate)
- 3 ½ cups cold milk
- 2 ½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Red and blue food coloring
- Sprinkles for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cake
- Preheat the oven according to cake mix instructions.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Prepare the white cake mix as directed on the box.
Step 2: Color the Batter
4. Divide the batter into 3 bowls. Leave one plain (white), color one red, and the other blue.
5. Drop spoonfuls of each color randomly into the baking dish until all batter is used.
6. Gently swirl the colors using a toothpick without overmixing.
7. Bake according to package directions.
Step 3: Poke and Fill the Cake
8. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes.
9. Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes throughout the cake.
Step 4: Prepare the Filling
10. Mix pudding with milk until combined but not fully thickened.
11. Pour pudding evenly over the cake, ensuring it fills the holes.
12. Spread any remaining pudding on top and refrigerate until set.
Step 5: Make Whipped Topping
13. Beat cold heavy cream with vanilla until soft peaks form.
14. Add powdered sugar and beat until stiff peaks form.
15. Spread over the chilled cake and garnish with sprinkles.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make Ahead: Prepare the cake at least 8 hours or one day in advance to allow it to fully set.
Refrigerate: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 to 7 days.
Freeze: Wrap the fully cooled cake tightly and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge and top with whipped cream before serving.
Recipe Notes
- Use white cake mix to keep the red, white, and blue contrast vibrant
- Cheesecake or white chocolate pudding gives the best color contrast
- Gel food coloring creates bright colors without thinning the batter
- Avoid over-swirl to maintain the marble pattern
Holidays This Cake is Perfect For
- Fourth of July
- Memorial Day
- Labor Day
- Christmas (use red and green coloring)
- Halloween (orange and black)
- Easter (pastel shades)
Recipe Card
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Bake
Cuisine: American
