Imagine a cake that delivers a burst of juicy citrus with every bite—moist, tender layers soaked in refreshing orange soda and topped with a creamy, luscious frosting. The Orange Crush Poke Cake is a delightful twist on traditional poke cakes that combines a zesty soda punch with sweet, smooth cream cheese topping, making it the perfect treat for warm weather or any time you crave something bright and inviting.
This dessert balances the lightness of vanilla or yellow cake with the effervescence of orange soda, resulting in a dessert that’s both fun and nostalgic. It’s incredibly easy to make, visually pleasing, and guaranteed to bring smiles at your next gathering or family meal.
- Quick and simple to prepare with a store-bought cake mix and easy ingredients.
- The orange soda infuses the cake with vibrant citrus flavor and moist texture.
- Cream cheese and whipped topping create a smooth, rich layer that complements the bright soda-soaked cake perfectly.
Ingredients
- White or Yellow Cake Mix: A box of your favorite white or yellow cake mix serves as the base, providing a light and fluffy texture for the cake.
- Orange Soda (12 oz / 355 ml): Use a citrus soda like Crush to soak the cake, adding bright, juicy orange flavor and moisture.
- Cream Cheese (8 oz / 226 g), softened: Softened cream cheese creates a velvety, tangy layer that balances the sweetness of the soda-soaked cake.
- Whipped Topping (8 oz / 226 g) or Whipped Cream (about 2 cups): Light and airy, this ingredient is folded into the cream cheese for a fluffy, creamy topping.
- Optional Shaved White Chocolate: Adds delicate sweetness and an elegant touch when sprinkled on top.
- Optional Orange Zest: Fresh zest brightens up the cream layer with extra citrus aroma and flavor.
- Optional Rainbow Sprinkles: Provide a fun, colorful finish that’s perfect for parties and celebrations.
Instructions
- Prepare and Bake the Cake
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Preheat your oven according to the cake mix instructions. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking. Prepare the cake batter as directed on the box, then pour it into the pan. Bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Proper baking ensures the cake will hold its structure and soak up the soda evenly.
- Poke the Warm Cake
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After baking, while the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a skewer to poke 20–30 evenly spaced holes across the surface. The holes create channels for the orange soda to seep deeply, infusing each bite with citrus flavor and moisture.
- Pour Orange Soda Over Cake
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Slowly drizzle the orange soda evenly over the entire cake surface, allowing it to sink into the holes. Pour gradually to prevent overflow and help the soda absorb fully, resulting in a juicy, flavorful cake base.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Layer
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In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in the whipped topping until just combined, taking care not to deflate the mixture. This creates a fluffy, luscious topping that complements the tangy soda-soaked cake beneath.
- Spread Cream Layer on Cake
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Evenly spread the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture over the entire cake surface. This layer adds richness and balances the citrus notes with its smooth texture. Ensure full coverage to keep the cake moist and flavorful.
- Chill and Serve
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Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the topping to set properly. Serve chilled for the best refreshing taste and texture. Slice into squares and enjoy your irresistible orange treat.
- Adding fresh orange zest to the cream layer can significantly enhance the citrus aroma.
- Even soda absorption is key; use a spatula to gently push soda into less soaked areas if needed.
- Pair this cake with fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special dessert experience.
- Store the cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days to keep it fresh.
Storage Tips
Keep the Orange Crush Poke Cake covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays moist and flavorful for up to five days, making it perfect for preparing ahead of time for events.
Serving Suggestions
Serve chilled, garnished with optional orange zest, shaved white chocolate, or sprinkles for extra fun. A side of fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully to elevate the dessert.
- Use a toothpick or skewer with a round tip to ensure hole sizes are consistent and help soda sink evenly.
- For a lighter cream layer, substitute some whipped topping with fresh whipped cream.
- Chilling overnight improves flavor meld and makes cutting cleaner and easier.
FAQs
- Can I use other flavors of soda instead of orange?
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Yes, you can experiment with different flavored sodas like lemon-lime or grape, but keep in mind it will change the distinct orange flavor.
- Is it okay to use homemade cake instead of box mix?
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Absolutely! Homemade vanilla or yellow cake works great. Just make sure to bake in a 9×13-inch pan and poke holes while warm.
- Can I make this cake dairy-free?
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To make it dairy-free, choose dairy-free cream cheese and whipped topping alternatives, and ensure your cake mix is dairy-free as well.
- How long does it take for the soda to soak in properly?
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Pouring the soda on warm cake allows quick absorption, but chilling for at least 2 hours ensures the most flavorful, moist result.
- Can I freeze Orange Crush Poke Cake?
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Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the cream cheese topping and soda-soaked cake may be compromised upon thawing.
- What is the best way to serve this cake?
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This cake is best served chilled, either as is or with fresh fruit, ice cream, or extra orange zest for garnish.
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
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Yes, simply use a gluten-free cake mix and verify all other ingredients like whipped topping are gluten-free.
Orange Crush Poke Cake
Equipment
- 1 9x13-inch baking pan greased
- 1 wooden spoon or skewer to poke holes
- 1 mixing bowl for cream layer
- 1 hand mixer or whisk to beat cream cheese
Ingredients
- 1 box white or yellow cake mix plus ingredients called for on box
- 1 can 12 ounces orange soda (like Crush)
- 1 package 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 tub 8 ounces whipped topping or about 2 cups whipped cream
- Optional: shaved white chocolate extra orange zest, or rainbow sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven according to cake mix directions and grease a 9×13-inch pan.
- Prepare and bake the cake batter following the package instructions.
- While the cake is warm, use the end of a wooden spoon or skewer to poke 20–30 holes evenly across the surface.
- Slowly pour the orange soda evenly over the poked cake, allowing it to soak into the holes.
- Beat the softened cream cheese until smooth in a bowl, then gently fold in the whipped topping until combined.
- Spread the cream cheese and whipped topping mixture evenly over the soaked cake.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours or overnight to let it set and the flavors meld.
- Slice and serve the cake chilled, optionally garnished with white chocolate, orange zest, or sprinkles.
Notes
- Add orange zest to cream layer for extra citrus brightness.
- Ensure soda is evenly absorbed using a spatula if needed.
- Serve with fresh fruit or vanilla ice cream for added flavor.
- Store covered in the refrigerator up to 4–5 days.
