BANANA PUDDING POKE CAKE

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Origin and Popularity:
Banana Pudding Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of banana pudding with the ease and convenience of a poke cake. While the exact origin of this recipe is unclear, poke cakes gained popularity in the mid-20th century as a simple and versatile dessert option. Banana pudding, with its creamy texture and comforting flavors, has long been a beloved Southern dessert. By combining these two favorites into one delicious treat, Banana Pudding Poke Cake has become a popular dessert choice in regions where both banana pudding and poke cakes are cherished.

Introduction:
Banana Pudding Poke Cake is a luscious and comforting dessert that brings together the beloved flavors of banana pudding and moist, tender cake. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or any occasion when you’re craving a sweet and satisfying treat. With layers of creamy pudding, ripe bananas, fluffy cake, and whipped topping, Banana Pudding Poke Cake is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

  • 1 box yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box, such as eggs, oil, and water)

For the Filling:

  • 1 box (3.4 ounces) instant vanilla pudding mix
  • 2 cups cold milk
  • 2 ripe bananas, sliced

For the Topping:

  • 2 cups whipped topping (such as Cool Whip)
  • 1-2 ripe bananas, sliced
  • Crushed vanilla wafers or Nilla wafer cookies, for garnish

Optional Toppings:

  • Additional whipped topping
  • Sliced fresh bananas
  • Drizzle of caramel sauce

Tips:

  • Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture in the cake and filling.
  • Be sure to let the cake cool completely before poking holes and adding the pudding mixture to prevent the pudding from melting into the cake.
  • Chill the cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
  • Garnish the cake with additional whipped topping, sliced bananas, and crushed vanilla wafers just before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cake:
  • Preheat your oven according to the instructions on the cake mix box.
  • Prepare the cake batter according to the instructions on the box.
  • Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake according to the package instructions.
  • Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan.
  1. Make the Filling:
  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and cold milk until smooth and thickened, about 2 minutes.
  • Refrigerate the pudding mixture for about 5 minutes to allow it to set slightly.
  1. Assemble the Cake:
  • Once the cake has cooled completely, use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, spacing them evenly apart.
  • Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the top of the cake, pressing them gently into the holes.
  1. Pour the Filling:
  • Pour the prepared pudding mixture over the top of the cake, spreading it evenly with a spatula to fill in the holes and cover the cake completely.
  1. Add the Topping:
  • Spread the whipped topping evenly over the pudding layer, covering the entire surface of the cake.
  • Arrange additional sliced bananas on top of the whipped topping, if desired.
  • Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers or Nilla wafer cookies over the whipped topping for garnish.
  1. Chill and Serve:
  • Refrigerate the Banana Pudding Poke Cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the pudding to set.
  • Slice and serve the chilled cake, garnished with additional whipped topping, sliced bananas, and a drizzle of caramel sauce, if desired.

Description:
Banana Pudding Poke Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the comforting flavors of banana pudding with the convenience of a poke cake. Moist yellow cake is filled with creamy vanilla pudding and ripe banana slices, then topped with a layer of fluffy whipped topping and garnished with crushed vanilla wafers. Each bite is a heavenly combination of sweet, creamy, and fruity flavors, making this dessert a true crowd-pleaser.

Nutritional Information:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.)

  • Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving (1 slice)
  • Total Fat: Approximately 10-15g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 5-8g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 10-20mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 250-300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 1-2g
  • Sugars: Approximately 20-25g
  • Protein: Approximately 3-5g

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