Tiramisu Poke Cake Delight

The First Bite That Hooked Me

The first time I tasted this cake, the coffee-kissed pudding oozed into every bite. The whipped topping melted like clouds, and the crunchy ladyfingers? Pure magic. Ever wondered how to make a dessert that feels like a hug? This cake does that. It’s cozy yet fancy, like wearing pajamas to a tea party. Share your first tiramisu memory below—was it love at first bite?

My Messy (But Delicious) First Try

I once forgot to poke the holes deep enough. The pudding pooled on top like a lazy river. Still tasty, but messy! Cooking teaches us to embrace imperfections—flaws add flavor. Home baking isn’t about perfection. It’s about joy, laughter, and licking the spoon. What’s your funniest kitchen fail? Tell me in the comments!

Why This Cake Stands Out

– The coffee pudding soaks into the cake, making it moist but not soggy. – The ladyfingers add a crunch that contrasts the creamy layers. Which flavor combo surprises you most—coffee and vanilla or cocoa and fruit? Vote with a reply!

A Slice of History

Tiramisu means “pick me up” in Italian. It was born in the 1960s in Veneto, Italy. *Did you know?* Some say it was a treat for tired workers. This poke cake version is a playful twist on tradition. What’s your favorite way to reinvent classic desserts?
See also  Refreshing Cherry Limeade Mocktail for Summer
Tiramisu Poke Cake Delight
Tiramisu Poke Cake Delight

Ingredients:

IngredientAmountNotes
Yellow Cake Mix1 boxIngredients listed on box
Vanilla extract1 tablespoon
Instant coffee/espresso1 tablespoon
Whole milk2 cupsDivided
Instant French vanilla pudding mix3.4 ounces
Whipped topping3 cups (8-ounce container)
Vanilla bean paste1 tablespoon
Ladyfinger cookies10Coarsely crumbled
Powdered cocoa powder1 tablespoon
Maraschino cherriesAs neededFor garnish
Fresh berriesAs neededFor garnish

How to Make Tiramisu Poke Cake Delight

Step 1 Preheat the oven and grease a 9×13 pan. Mix the cake batter with vanilla extract. Bake as directed on the box. Let cool 10-15 minutes before poking holes. Step 2 Stir coffee into 1 cup milk until dissolved. Add pudding mix and whisk briefly. Pour over the cake before it sets. Spread evenly to fill the holes. (Hard-learned tip: Poke holes while the cake is warm. Cold cake crumbles too easily.) Step 3 Fold vanilla bean paste into whipped topping. Spread it over the pudding layer. Sprinkle crumbled ladyfingers and cocoa on top. Press lightly to stick. Step 4 Chill for 1-2 hours before serving. Top with cherries or berries. Serve with coffee for the full tiramisu vibe. What’s the best way to dissolve instant coffee? Share below! Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Yield: 12 servings Category: Dessert, Cake

3 Twists on Tiramisu Poke Cake

Chocolate Lover’s Swap vanilla pudding for chocolate. Add mini chocolate chips to the topping. Boozy Kick Mix 1 tbsp rum into the pudding. Use espresso instead of instant coffee. Fruity Fresh Layer sliced strawberries under the whipped topping. Skip the cocoa for a brighter look. Which twist would you try first? Vote in the comments!

Serving & Sipping Ideas

Pair slices with fresh berries or mint sprigs. Try a side of vanilla ice cream. Drink it with iced coffee or a creamy latte. For a treat, add a shot of Kahlúa.
See also  Lemon Crinkle Cookies Sweet Buttery Cracked Delight
Which would you choose tonight?
Tiramisu Poke Cake Delight
Tiramisu Poke Cake Delight

Keep It Fresh or Freeze It

Store your cake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. The whipped topping stays fluffy, but the ladyfingers soften—yum! Freeze slices wrapped tight for 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge. *Fun fact*: My neighbor freezes individual portions for surprise sweet cravings. Reheat? Skip it—this dessert shines cold. Double the recipe for parties—it disappears fast! Why this matters: Chilling lets flavors meld. Ever tried freezing desserts? Share your tips below!

Oops-Proof Your Cake

Pudding too thick? Add a splash of milk before pouring—it’ll sink into holes easier. Whipped topping lumpy? Fold gently with a spatula, not a whisk. Ladyfingers soggy? Sprinkle them last-minute before serving. Why this matters: Small tweaks save time and stress. Had a cake disaster? Tell us how you fixed it! Pro tip: Warm cake? Pudding slides right in—no waiting.

Your Questions, Answered

Q: Gluten-free version? A: Swap the cake mix and ladyfingers for gluten-free brands—works like a charm. Q: Can I make it ahead? A: Yes! Assemble 1 day early—just add crunchy topping before serving. Q: Swap for dairy-free? A: Use almond milk and coconut whipped topping. Pudding might set softer. Q: Halve the recipe? A: Bake in an 8×8 pan—adjust baking time by 5 minutes. Q: Skip coffee? A: Try chai powder or cocoa in the pudding layer instead. Which swap sounds best to you?

Slice, Savor, Share

This cake’s a crowd-pleaser—my book club still begs for it! Tag @SavoryDiscovery on Pinterest so I can cheer your creation. Happy cooking! —Elowen Thorn.
Tiramisu Poke Cake Delight
Tiramisu Poke Cake Delight

Tiramisu Poke Cake Delight

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 20 minutesCook time: 25 minutesRest time:2 hours Total time:2 hours 45 minutesServings:12 servingsCalories:141 kcal Best Season:Summer

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven and grease or spray a 9×13 cake pan with cooking spray or vegetable shortening.
  2. Prepare the cake mix according to package directions, adding the vanilla extract.
  3. Bake according to package directions.
  4. Remove and allow to cool for 10-15 minutes before using the round end up a wooden spoon or chopstick to poke holes generously throughout the cake.
  5. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the instant coffee/espresso with 1 cup of milk. Stir and allow to sit for 5 minutes to dissolve.
  6. Add the additional cup of milk and whisk with the pudding mixture. Do not whisk until it is set, only about half of the suggested time, 1 minute.
  7. Pour the mixture over the cake (cake can still be warm) and spread evenly so it can go down the holes. If you wait too long, the pudding will set and you can still slather it on top, but it likely won’t fall down the holes. Set aside.
  8. In the same mixing bowl, combine the whipped topping and vanilla bean paste, folding until evenly mixed. Spread this on top of the pudding layer. Set aside.
  9. In a small bowl, combine the coarsely chopped lady fingers and cocoa powder until coated. Sprinkle this evenly over the whipped topping, gently pressing down to stick.
  10. Cover and chill for 1-2 hours before serving. Garnish with maraschino cherries or fresh fruit and of course, a cup of coffee.

Notes

    If you’ve tried this recipe, come back and let us know how it was in the comments or star ratings.
Keywords:Tiramisu, Cake, Poke Cake, Dessert