Unicorn Poke Cake Recipe

Introduction

Unicorn Poke Cake is a vibrant and fun dessert that’s perfect for celebrations or anytime you want a colorful treat. With swirls of pastel cake and a creamy pudding filling, this cake delights both the eyes and the taste buds.

Ingredients

• 15 ounces (432g) white cake mix (Duncan Hines recommended)
• 1 cup water
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 3 egg whites (room temperature)
• Blue gel food color (neon blue suggested)
• Purple gel food color (regal purple suggested)
• Pink gel food color (neon pink suggested)
• 6.8 ounces (2 x 3.4 ounce, 96g) french vanilla instant pudding mix (Jell-O recommended)
• 3¾ cups cold whole milk
• 8 ounces (226g) whipped topping (thawed)
• 2.82 ounces (80g) Unicorn sparkle candy sprinkles (CandiFetti brand recommended)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick baking spray.
2. Step 2: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the cake mix, water, vegetable oil, and egg whites. Mix on medium speed with a handheld mixer until smooth and lump-free.
3. Step 3: Divide the cake batter evenly into three smaller bowls, preferably glass or disposable to avoid staining.
4. Step 4: Add 3-4 drops of blue gel food color to one bowl and stir until fully blended with no streaks.
5. Step 5: Add 5-7 drops of purple gel food color to the second bowl and mix thoroughly.
6. Step 6: Add 5-7 drops of pink gel food color to the third bowl and stir well.
7. Step 7: Spoon dollops of the colored batters alternately into the prepared baking dish. Use a toothpick or skewer to gently swirl the colors together. Bake for 25-28 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Begin checking at 22 minutes. Let the cake cool completely.
8. Step 8: Once cooled, poke holes about an inch apart across the cake using the round end of a wooden spoon.
9. Step 9: In a large bowl, whisk together the cold milk and instant pudding mixes using a handheld mixer on low or a whisk until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
10. Step 10: Spoon pudding into the holes until filled, then spread remaining pudding evenly over the cake surface.
11. Step 11: Spread the thawed whipped topping over the pudding layer until smooth. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.
12. Step 12: Before serving, sprinkle unicorn sparkle candy sprinkles evenly over the top. Slice into 3 by 5 pieces and keep refrigerated until ready to serve.

Tips & Variations

• Use gel food coloring instead of liquid to avoid thinning the batter and achieve vibrant colors.
• For extra fun, try mixing different candy or fruit sprinkles on top along with the unicorn sparkles.
• To make individual servings, bake in cupcake liners and poke holes with a skewer before adding pudding.

Storage

Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, reheat briefly at room temperature before serving or enjoy chilled. Avoid freezing as the pudding layer may separate upon thawing.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different cake flavor for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any white or yellow cake mix for a similar effect. Avoid dark or chocolate cake to keep the bright colors vivid.

What if I don’t have gel food coloring?

Gel food coloring is best for bold, vibrant colors without altering batter consistency. If you only have liquid coloring, add it sparingly to prevent thinning the batter and fading the colors.