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During the holiday season, desserts play a significant role in bringing families and friends together, creating cherished memories around the dining table. From rich chocolate cakes to buttery shortbreads, the array of sweets that grace our holiday tables is a testament to the joy and warmth this time of year brings. Among these delightful treats, the Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake stands out as a vibrant and festive dessert that embodies the spirit of the season. With its moist texture and tart cranberry flavor, this poke cake is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual centerpiece that can elevate any holiday gathering.

Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake – A Festive Sweet Treat for Your Holiday Table

Bring holiday cheer to your dessert table with this delightful Christmas Cranberry Poke Cake! This festive treat features a moist white cake infused with tart cranberry flavor, soaked in homemade cranberry sauce and topped with creamy frosting. It's a vibrant centerpiece that combines great taste and beautiful presentation, perfect for any holiday gathering. Celebrate the season with this sweet indulgence! #ChristmasDesserts #CranberryCake #HolidayBaking #FestiveTreats #DessertIdeas #PokeCake
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Ingredients
  

For the cake:

1 box of white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, water, and oil)

1 cup of fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped

1/2 cup of sugar

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

For the cranberry sauce:

2 cups of fresh cranberries

1 cup of sugar

1 cup of water

1 teaspoon orange zest

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

For the frosting:

1 tub (8 oz) of whipped cream cheese frosting

1/2 cup of cranberry sauce (see above)

Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the cake:

    - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking dish.

      - In a large mixing bowl, prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions.

        - Gently fold in the chopped cranberries, sugar, and vanilla extract until combined.

          - Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Bake according to package directions, usually about 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

            Make the cranberry sauce:

              - In a medium saucepan, combine the fresh cranberries, sugar, water, orange zest, and optional cinnamon.

                - Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

                  Poke the cake:

                    - Once the cake is out of the oven and slightly cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the top of the cake, about 1 inch apart.

                      - Carefully pour the cooled cranberry sauce evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes. Make sure to cover the entire surface for maximum flavor!

                        Prepare the frosting:

                          - In a mixing bowl, combine the whipped cream cheese frosting with 1/2 cup of the previously prepared cranberry sauce. Mix until well blended and smooth.

                            Frost the cake:

                              - Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cranberry frosting evenly over the cake using a spatula.

                                Serve:

                                  - For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves on top.

                                    - Cut into squares and serve, enjoying the burst of flavors in every bite!

                                      Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes | Servings: 12-15 slices