Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe

This Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe is one of those desserts that just feels like a warm hug on a plate. I absolutely love how the pudding seeps into the cake’s holes, giving every bite this perfect creamy twist that’s both nostalgic and refreshingly simple. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser for summer parties or a family dessert that’s quick to put together, this recipe hits all the right notes.

When I first tried this Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to elevate a boxed cake mix with just a few fun additions. You’ll find that it’s not only a breeze to prepare but also flexible enough for last-minute tweaks. Trust me, once you nail the pudding soak-in and the whipped topping spread, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite on your dessert rotation.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe is chosen for its role in layering flavors and textures. You’ll want to pick ripe bananas and a quality pudding mix to make this recipe shine.

• Yellow cake mix: Boxed mixes are great for convenience – pick your favorite brand, and you’ll have a solid cake base that’s easy to prepare.
• Banana instant pudding mix: The key to that lovely banana flavor; two small boxes ensure the pudding layer is rich and tasty.
• Cold milk: Makes the pudding smooth and creamy – make sure it’s cold to help the pudding set properly.
• Frozen whipped topping or homemade whipped cream: Either works beautifully – whipped cream adds a fresh touch if you have time.
• Bananas: Fresh bananas are sliced just before serving to keep them from browning and add that signature flavor.
• Nilla wafers: Crumbled on top for crunch – these are classic with banana pudding and bring a nostalgic note.

Variations

I love making this Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe my own by switching up some ingredients or adding little extras. It invites you to experiment, so don’t hesitate to play around with your favorite add-ins.

• Make it gluten-free: I’ve swapped the cake mix for a gluten-free version, and it’s just as moist and delicious.
• Add cinnamon or nutmeg: A pinch of warm spices in the pudding layer gives it a cozy twist that my whole family raves about.
• Use fresh whipped cream: Homemade whipped cream makes it feel extra special, and you’ll notice the flavor difference immediately.
• Top with toasted pecans: For an added crunch and nutty flavor, sprinkle some toasted pecans alongside the Nilla wafers.

How to Make Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe

Step 1: Bake Your Cake Base

Preheat your oven according to the directions on the cake mix box, then prepare the batter just like it says. Pour it into a 13×9-inch pan and bake as directed. When it’s done, let it cool in the pan for at least 5 minutes before moving on. Keeping it in the pan helps it cool evenly and prevents crumbs from breaking off when you poke the holes.

Step 2: Poke and Prepare for Pudding

Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes evenly spaced about ½ to 1 inch apart, almost all the way down to the bottom of the cake. I discovered that wiping the spoon handle between pokes helps stop it from dragging cake bits out, which keeps your holes clean and consistent. This is where the magic happens – the pudding will seep into these holes for that signature moist texture.

Step 3: Mix and Pour Banana Pudding

Combine your banana instant pudding mix with cold milk, stirring until smooth. The pudding thickens quickly, so work efficiently. Once your cake is completely cooled, pour the pudding over the cake and gently spread it so it seeps into every hole and covers the surface. Pop the cake in the fridge for about an hour—this sets the pudding just right and makes it easier to add the whipped topping.

Step 4: Spread Whipped Topping and Add Final Touches

After the pudding layer has set, evenly spread your whipped topping or whipped cream over the cake. You want this layer smooth and generous—it adds a light, creamy finish that balances the banana flavor. Just before serving, sprinkle crumbled Nilla wafers and fresh banana slices on top. I’ve learned that adding bananas too early leads to browning, so slice them last minute for the best presentation.

How to Serve Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe

Garnishes

I love topping my Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe with extra crumbled Nilla wafers and just a few more fresh banana slices for a little flourish. Sometimes, I add a light dusting of cinnamon or drizzle of caramel to make it feel extra indulgent. It’s those little touches that make serving it even more fun!

Side Dishes

This dessert stands out on its own, but if you want to pair it, I’d suggest a simple cup of coffee or a tall glass of cold milk to balance the sweetness. For summer gatherings, fresh fruit salads or light lemon bars complement it beautifully too.

Creative Ways to Present

For birthdays, I sometimes layer this Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe in individual mason jars instead of a big pan—people love the portion control and it looks adorable on the table. Another idea is to pipe whipped cream rosettes on top instead of spreading it, giving it a bakery-style finish that impresses every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil in the fridge for up to 3 days. The cake continues to absorb flavors, becoming even more yummy—just remember to add fresh banana slices each time before serving to keep things looking fresh.

Freezing

Freezing this poke cake isn’t my first choice because fresh bananas don’t freeze well. However, you can freeze the cake after baking (before adding pudding and topping) wrapped tightly, then thaw it fully before completing the recipe. This way, you get a fresh dessert vibe without the time crunch.

Reheating

This dessert is best served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t really necessary. If you prefer, you can let a chilled slice sit out for 15 minutes so the flavors soften — it tastes just as amazing this way and avoids melting the whipped topping.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Banana Pudding Poke Cake Recipe has become one of my absolute go-to desserts because it’s simple enough for a busy weeknight, but special enough to wow guests. I love sharing it because it brings back that classic Southern comfort with a fun, easy twist that anyone can master. Give it a try—I promise you’ll enjoy how effortless, delicious, and homey it feels every time.

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