Dive into a refreshing wave of flavor with “Citrus Sensation: Orange Crush Poke Cake,” a vibrant and delightful dessert that brings the classic taste of Orange Crush soda to a moist and flavorful cake. This fun and easy-to-make treat infuses light, airy cake with a zesty orange soda mixture, then tops it off with a creamy, sweet frosting and a sprinkle of tangy orange zest. Perfect for summer picnics, family gatherings, or whenever you need a bright and cheerful dessert, this poke cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love Orange Crush Poke Cake:
- Bright and Zesty Flavor: Captures the iconic taste of Orange Crush soda in a deliciously sweet and tangy cake.
- Moist and Flavorful: The poke method allows the orange soda mixture to permeate the cake, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Simple and Fun to Make: An enjoyable baking project that’s great for bakers of all levels, including kids.
- Versatile for Any Occasion: A hit at parties, barbecues, and any event where a refreshing and unique dessert is desired.
Ingredients Notes For Orange Crush Poke Cake:
- Cake Base: Use a white or vanilla cake mix as the foundation for a light and fluffy texture.
- Orange Crush Soda: Used both in the cake batter and as the soaking liquid to intensify the orange flavor.
- Pudding Mix: Instant vanilla or orange-flavored pudding mix adds creaminess and depth to the frosting.
- Whipped Topping: Blends with the pudding to create a light, airy frosting.
- Orange Zest: Provides a fresh, aromatic garnish that enhances the citrus flavor.
Recipe Steps:
- Bake the Cake: Prepare the cake mix according to package instructions, substituting Orange Crush soda for the water. Bake in a greased 9×13 inch pan and cool slightly.
- Poke and Soak: Once the cake is slightly cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes across the entire surface. Pour additional Orange Crush soda slowly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
- Prepare the Frosting: Mix the pudding mix with cold milk until thickened, then fold in whipped topping until smooth.
- Frost and Garnish: Spread the frosting over the cooled, soaked cake. Sprinkle with orange zest for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the cake for at least an hour to set before serving, allowing the flavors to meld.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Store the cake in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 5 days.
- Serve Chilled: This cake is best enjoyed cold, offering a refreshing and creamy taste experience.
INGREDIENTS
For the Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix
- Ingredients called for on the cake mix box (typically water, oil, and eggs)
- 1 cup Orange Crush soda (to replace part of the water in the cake mix instructions)
For the Poke Filling:
- 1 package (3 oz) orange gelatin mix
- 1 cup boiling water
- 1/2 cup cold Orange Crush soda
For the Topping:
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- Orange zest, for garnish (optional)
- Orange slices, for garnish (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Bake the Cake:
- Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box, substituting 1 cup of Orange Crush soda for part of the water. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake according to the package instructions until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Orange Gelatin:
- While the cake is baking, dissolve the orange gelatin mix in 1 cup of boiling water. Once completely dissolved, stir in 1/2 cup of cold Orange Crush soda.
- Allow the gelatin mixture to cool to room temperature.
- Poke and Fill the Cake:
- Once the cake is slightly cooled but still warm, use the end of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke holes all over the top of the cake, about 1 inch apart.
- Pour the cooled orange gelatin mixture over the cake, aiming to fill the holes. Spread evenly with a spatula.
- Chill the Cake:
- Place the cake in the refrigerator to chill and set for at least 2 hours, or until completely cooled and the gelatin is set.
- Add the Topping:
- Spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top of the chilled cake.
- Garnish with orange zest and orange slices, if desired.
- Serve:
- Slice and serve the Orange Crush Poke Cake chilled. It can be stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve.