Instructions
1. Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven according to the cake mix directions.
Prepare the yellow cake mix with the required eggs, oil, and water, following the package instructions for a 9×13-inch pan.
Bake as directed until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Poke the Cake
Once the cake comes out of the oven, let it cool for 2–3 minutes (it should still be warm).
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake — spacing them about 1 inch apart. Make sure to poke deep holes so the pudding can soak in well.
3. Prepare the Banana Pudding
In a large bowl, whisk together both packages of banana pudding mix and 4 cups of cold milk.
Stir quickly until the mixture is smooth and just beginning to thicken — it should still be pourable.
4. Fill the Holes and Chill
Pour the pudding evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into all the holes.
Use the back of a spoon to gently spread the pudding and push it into the holes.
Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or until fully set and chilled.
5. Add the Topping
Once the cake is completely cool, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the surface.
Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top just before serving for the perfect crunch.
Storage Tips
- Keep the cake refrigerated until serving.
- Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For make-ahead convenience, bake the cake a day in advance and top it with whipped cream and wafers just before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Add sliced bananas between the pudding and whipped topping for extra banana flavor.
- Substitute one pudding mix with chocolate pudding for a banana-chocolate twist.
- Use coconut pudding instead of banana and top with toasted coconut flakes for a tropical version.
Conclusion
This Banana Pudding Poke Cake is the ultimate creamy, dreamy dessert — sweet, nostalgic, and crowd-pleasing. With its silky pudding layers and fluffy topping, it’s bound to disappear fast at any gathering. Simple to make, yet impressive to serve — it’s comfort food at its finest.
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