Banana Pudding Poke Cake
This Banana Pudding Poke Cake is a moist vanilla cake filled with creamy banana pudding and topped with whipped topping, fresh banana slices, and crushed vanilla wafers. It's everything you love about classic Southern banana pudding transformed into an easy, crowd-pleasing cake.
Perfect for holidays, potlucks, birthdays, and family gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Easy beginner-friendly recipe
- Classic banana pudding flavor
- Moist and creamy texture
- Perfect make-ahead dessert
- Great for potlucks
- Southern favorite
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- Ingredients required on box
Banana Pudding Filling
- 2 packages instant banana pudding mix (3.4 ounces each)
- 4 cups cold milk
Topping
- 8 ounces whipped topping, thawed
- 2 bananas, sliced
- 1 cup crushed vanilla wafers
Instructions
Step 1
Prepare and bake the cake according to package directions in a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Allow the cake to cool for 15 minutes.
Step 2
Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake.
Step 3
Whisk together banana pudding mix and cold milk until smooth.
Allow it to thicken slightly.
Step 4
Spread half of the pudding over the cake, pressing it gently into the holes.
Spread remaining pudding evenly across the top.
Step 5
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
Step 6
Spread whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake.
Step 7
Top with banana slices and crushed vanilla wafers just before serving.
Variations
Strawberry Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Add sliced strawberries on top.
Cheesecake Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Mix softened cream cheese into the pudding layer.
Chocolate Banana Pudding Poke Cake
Drizzle with chocolate syrup.
Banana Crunch Poke Cake
Add crushed vanilla wafers between layers.
Storage
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called a poke cake?
Holes are poked into the cake so the filling can soak inside.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. It tastes even better after chilling overnight.
Can I use homemade pudding?
Absolutely.