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Ultra Moist Coconut Cream Poke Cake

A tall slice of moist coconut poke cake layered with white frosting and topped with toasted coconut flakes.

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This recipe delivers an ultra moist coconut cake, soaked in a sweet condensed milk mixture and topped with fluffy coconut frosting. It is a simple, creamy dessert perfect for parties or summer gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 box white or yellow cake mix (plus ingredients listed on box)
  • 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk
  • 1 can (15 ounces) cream of coconut (like Coco Lopez)
  • 1/2 cup hot water
  • 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional, for extra flavor)
  • 1 container (8 ounces) frozen whipped topping, thawed
  • 1 1/2 cups sweetened flaked coconut, toasted

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cake mix according to package directions for a 9×13 inch pan. Bake as directed.
  2. While the cake is still warm from the oven, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a fork to poke holes all over the top surface, about 1 inch apart.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, cream of coconut, hot water, and coconut extract (if using) until fully combined. This creates your sweet soak.
  4. Slowly pour the coconut soak mixture evenly over the entire surface of the warm cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
  5. Let the cake cool completely at room temperature, then cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until thoroughly chilled and the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Once chilled, spread the thawed whipped topping evenly over the top of the cake.
  7. Sprinkle the toasted flaked coconut over the whipped topping.
  8. Slice and serve this creamy poke cake cold.

Notes

  • To toast the coconut, spread the flakes on a dry baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 to 8 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  • For an extra tropical flavor, substitute the hot water in the soak with 1/2 cup of crushed pineapple juice (drained).
  • This cake is best made a day ahead to allow the soak to fully penetrate the cake layers, making it an ultra moist cake recipe.

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