Go Back
+ servings
Gingerbread Poke Cake

Delightful Gingerbread Poke Cake for Cozy Holiday Moments

This Gingerbread Poke Cake combines classic holiday flavors into a delightful dessert everyone will adore.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Chill Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Cake
  • 1 box Gingerbread Cake Mix Can substitute with homemade gingerbread if preferred.
For the Caramel Sauce
  • 1 cup Caramel Sauce Store-bought works well, or make homemade for a richer taste.
For the Whipped Cream Topping
  • 2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream Low-fat versions may not whip as well.
  • 1 teaspoon Cinnamon Use ground for best results.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Nutmeg Fresh nutmeg can bring a brighter flavor.
For the Crunchy Topping
  • 1 cup Gingersnap Cookies Can substitute with other spiced cookies or graham crackers for variety.

Equipment

  • Mixing Bowl
  • Electric mixer
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Wire Rack

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Gingerbread Poke Cake
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the gingerbread cake mix with the recommended ingredients on the package, typically eggs, water, and oil. Whisk until smooth, then pour the batter into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack.
  2. Once the Gingerbread Poke Cake has cooled completely, take a fork and carefully poke holes all over the top of the cake, about 1 inch apart. Press down gently to ensure the holes are deep enough for the caramel to soak through but be cautious not to tear the cake.
  3. Drizzle the caramel sauce evenly over the poked cake, making sure it seeps into the holes for maximum flavor. Let the cake sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the caramel fully.
  4. While the cake is absorbing the caramel, grab a mixing bowl and place it in the fridge to chill for a few minutes. Once cold, pour in the heavy whipping cream, then add the cinnamon and nutmeg. Use an electric mixer to whip the cream on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, about 3–5 minutes.
  5. Spread the fluffy cinnamon-nutmeg whipped cream evenly over the top of the caramel-soaked cake using a spatula.
  6. Crumble the gingersnap cookies into small pieces and sprinkle them generously over the whipped cream layer.
  7. Cover the assembled Gingerbread Poke Cake with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, slice the cake.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 3gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 45mgSodium: 250mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 40mgIron: 1mg

Notes

For a perfect experience, ensure the cake is completely cool before poking holes and chill your mixing tools for fluffier whipped cream.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!