An irresistible twist on a Southern favorite, this Banana Pudding Poke Cake blends moist yellow cake with creamy banana pudding and fluffy whipped topping. It’s easy to make, full of nostalgic flavor, and perfect for potlucks or family dinners. Every bite melts in your mouth with layers of soft cake, pudding, and a light crunch from vanilla wafers. This chilled dessert feels like comfort and sunshine all in one pan.
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Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding Poke Cake
You’ll love how simple yet rich this dessert tastes. It combines all the flavors of classic banana pudding in a moist, sliceable cake that’s easy for serving. The pudding sinks into every hole, creating a silky, custard-like texture. It’s perfect for beginner bakers, since everything comes together in minutes using simple ingredients. The whipped topping gives it a dreamy, cloud-like finish, while the vanilla wafers add a sweet crunch. Whether it’s for a weekend treat, church gathering, or summer party, this cake is a crowd favorite that always disappears fast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need a box of yellow cake mix for the base, along with the simple ingredients listed on the box like eggs, oil, and water. Instant banana pudding mix brings creamy banana flavor, while cold milk helps the pudding set perfectly. Whipped topping adds a smooth, airy layer, and crushed vanilla wafers finish everything with a crisp, nostalgic crunch. Use whole or 2 percent milk for best texture, and stick with instant pudding since cook-and-serve types don’t set well. Fresh banana slices can be added for extra flavor, but remember they brown quickly. Homemade whipped cream can work too, but store-bought holds up longer.
How to Make Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Bake the Cake
Prepare the yellow cake mix according to the package directions and bake it in a 9×13-inch pan until golden and springy. Once done, let it cool for about fifteen minutes so it’s still warm but not hot. Then grab the handle of a wooden spoon and poke holes all over the cake, making sure they go deep enough for the pudding to fill them.
Make the Pudding Layer
Whisk instant banana pudding mix with cold milk until it’s smooth and slightly thickened. It should pour easily, not set completely. This helps it sink deep into the cake and stay creamy after chilling.
Fill the Holes and Chill
Pour the pudding evenly over the cake, letting it fill all the holes. Use the back of a spoon to gently press it down so it seeps inside. Refrigerate the cake for at least two hours until the pudding layer sets and everything feels cool and firm to the touch.
Add the Topping
Once the cake is fully chilled, spread a thick layer of whipped topping over it. Sprinkle crushed vanilla wafers on top right before serving so they stay crispy. For an extra touch, add sliced bananas or drizzle caramel sauce across the top.
Tips for Perfect Results
Always use instant pudding so the filling sets properly. Chill the cake long enough to allow the pudding to firm up before adding the whipped topping. Use whole or two percent milk for the best creamy texture. Add the crushed wafers just before serving to keep them crunchy. If you’re making it ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavor deepens overnight, and it tastes even better the next day. Leftovers freeze well for up to three months; just thaw them slowly in the fridge. Serve slices with a drizzle of caramel or extra whipped cream for a bakery-style finish.
Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions
This Banana Pudding Poke Cake keeps well in the fridge for up to three days when covered tightly. Always wait to add the wafer topping until right before serving so it stays crunchy. You can also freeze the cake without toppings for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then add whipped topping and crushed wafers before serving. It’s a great make-ahead dessert for busy days or special occasions.
Common Questions About Banana Pudding Poke Cake
What is banana pudding poke cake?
It’s a soft yellow cake filled with banana pudding and topped with whipped cream and crushed wafers for flavor and texture.
Can you use pudding in a poke cake?
Yes, instant pudding works perfectly. It fills the holes in the cake and makes it soft and creamy.
What is poke cake made of?
A poke cake is made from a boxed cake mix, pudding or gelatin, and a creamy topping such as whipped cream.
How to keep poke cake from getting soggy?
Refrigerate it well and wait to add toppings like wafers until just before serving. This keeps the layers light and balanced.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Easy Strawberry Brownies
- Air Fryer Apples – A Quick Healthy Dessert
- Slutty Brownies – The Ultimate Gooey Dessert
- Vanilla Cake Recipe – Soft and Buttery Dessert
- Air Fryer Chocolate Chip Cookies
- Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Conclusion
This Banana Pudding Poke Cake is creamy, soft, and irresistibly sweet. It brings together the best parts of banana pudding in an easy cake that’s perfect for any crowd. With layers of pudding-soaked cake, whipped topping, and crunchy wafers, it’s a treat that tastes like home. Make it ahead, chill it well, and watch everyone come back for seconds. For more delicious dessert ideas, check out my latest recipes on Pinterest.
Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Wooden spoon
- Refrigerator
Ingredients
- yellow cake mix
- ingredients listed on the box (eggs, oil, water)
- instant banana pudding mix
- cold milk (whole or 2 percent preferred)
- whipped topping (thawed)
- vanilla wafers, crushed
- optional fresh banana slices or caramel drizzle
Instructions
- Prepare yellow cake mix according to package directions in a 9×13-inch pan. Bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool slightly.
- Whisk instant banana pudding with cold milk until smooth and slightly thickened. It should remain pourable.
- Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake. Pour pudding over the top, pressing gently so it fills the holes. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours until fully set.
- Spread whipped topping over the chilled cake. Sprinkle with crushed vanilla wafers and add banana slices if desired before serving.
