The moment September fades into October, my heart races with anticipation for all things spooky and sweet. Last Halloween, I found myself dashing to the kitchen, eager to create something uniquely festive and delicious. That’s when I whipped up this unforgettable Vampire Poke Cake, a treat that’s as whimsical as it is indulgent!
Imagine a rich, moist almond buttermilk cake, decadently soaked in a tart cherry “blood” sauce that oozes with flavor at first bite. Topped with fluffy whipped cream, each slice is a delightful blend of sweet and tart that perfectly captures the Halloween spirit. Not only is this cake a showstopper on any dessert table, but it also embraces the playful side of the season while being surprisingly easy to make.
So, whether you’re hosting a haunt or simply looking to treat yourself, this Vampire Poke Cake is the perfect way to bring a dash of spooky fun to your homemade desserts. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is Vampire Poke Cake a Must-Bake?
Irresistible Flavor: The blend of almond buttermilk and tart cherry sauce creates a flavor explosion that dances on your palate.
Spooky Presentation: This cake delights both kids and adults, making it perfect for Halloween parties or family gatherings.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, you’ll whip up this cake in no time, leaving you more moments to enjoy the festivities.
Customizable Options: Feel free to swap out the cherries for your favorite fruits, ensuring everyone gets a slice they love.
Moist, Cake Perfection: Each bite is airy yet rich, thanks to the thoughtfully layered cherry sauce and fluffy whipped cream topping.
Vampire Poke Cake Ingredients
• Get ready for a spook-tacular baking adventure with these delicious ingredients!
For the Cherry Sauce
- Fresh or Frozen Cherries (1 lb.) – Adds a tart, fruity flavor; use fresh for best taste.
- Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup + 1 cup) – Sweetens the cherry sauce and cake; substitute with coconut sugar for a less processed option.
- Water (1/2 cup) – Used to create the cherry sauce.
- Cornstarch (2 Tbsp.) – Thickens the cherry sauce; can substitute with arrowroot powder.
- Kosher Salt (1/4 tsp.) – Enhances flavor; regular salt can be used.
For the Cake Batter
- Cooking Spray – Prevents the cake from sticking to the pan.
- All-Purpose Flour (3 cups) – Provides structure to the cake; gluten-free flour mix can be used as a substitute.
- Baking Powder (2 tsp.) – A key leavening agent to ensure the cake rises; do not substitute.
- Baking Soda (1/2 tsp.) – Works alongside baking powder to help the cake fluff up.
- Unsalted Butter (3/4 cup or 1 1/2 sticks) – Adds richness to the cake; can replace with plant-based butter or coconut oil.
- Large Eggs (3) – Binds ingredients and contributes to texture; can use flax eggs for a vegan version.
- Almond Extract (2 tsp.) – Infuses the cake with a nutty flavor; can substitute with vanilla extract.
- Buttermilk (1 3/4 cups, divided) – Provides moisture and flavor; substitute with milk mixed with vinegar for a buttermilk alternative.
For the Whipped Topping
- Heavy Cream (1 1/2 cups) – Creates the whipped topping; can use coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
- Powdered Sugar (3 Tbsp.) – Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped cream.
- Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tsp.) – Enhances flavor profile; use high-quality vanilla for best taste.
Now that you have all the eerie yet enticing elements gathered, you’re ready to create your memorable Vampire Poke Cake—perfect for Halloween festivities!
How to Make Vampire Poke Cake
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Prepare Cherry Sauce: In a saucepan, combine 1 lb. of cherries, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, 2 Tbsp. cornstarch, and 1/4 tsp. salt. Cook over medium heat until thickened, then let it cool completely.
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare a 13×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray to ensure easy removal later.
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Mix Cake Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour, 2 tsp. baking powder, 1/2 tsp. baking soda, and 1/2 tsp. salt. In another bowl, cream 3/4 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 3 large eggs, 2 tsp. almond extract, and 1 3/4 cups buttermilk, mixing until smooth.
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Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake fluffy.
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Bake Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
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Poke and Fill Cake: Once the cake has cooled, use a wooden spoon handle to poke holes all over the surface. Gently pour the cooled cherry sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes for maximum flavor.
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Prepare Whipped Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat 1 1/2 cups heavy cream with 3 Tbsp. powdered sugar and 1 tsp. vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the cake for a fluffy topping.
Optional: Decorate with sprinkles or chocolate shavings for extra flair!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Vampire Poke Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this spooky dessert your own with these delightful twists!
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Fruit Swap: Replace cherries with blueberries or strawberries for a fruity twist. Each choice brings a unique flavor to the festive fun.
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Nutty Flavor: Substitute almond extract with hazelnut or coconut extract for a new layer of flavor. This twist enhances the cake’s taste profile beautifully.
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Citrus Zing: Add a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the batter for a refreshing citrus touch that brightens each slice!
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Chocolate Delight: Mix in mini chocolate chips or swirl chocolate ganache into the whipped cream topping for a rich, chocolatey experience. It adds a decadent flair to the poke cake.
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Spicy Heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cherry sauce for a subtle spicy kick. This unexpected heat makes every bite an exciting surprise!
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Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream and use plant-based butter for a completely dairy-free dessert that still delivers on creaminess.
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Gingersnap Crunch: Crumble gingersnap cookies on top of the whipped cream for a spicy crunch that complements the sweetness perfectly. Each bite will be a delightful combination of textures!
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Vegan Delight: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free ingredients throughout for a vegan-friendly version that’s just as delicious. You won’t miss a thing with this adaptation!
How to Store and Freeze Vampire Poke Cake
Room Temperature: Keep leftover Vampire Poke Cake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.
Fridge: Store any remaining cake in the fridge for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cake (without the whipped cream) in an airtight container or tightly wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy the cake warm, microwave slices for 10-15 seconds. If topped with whipped cream, it’s best added just before serving for that light, fluffy texture!
What to Serve with Vampire Poke Cake?
Elevate your Halloween dessert experience by pairing the delightful flavors of your Vampire Poke Cake with these scrumptious accompaniments.
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Spooky Cupcakes: Mini Halloween-themed cupcakes add variety and fun to your dessert table, giving guests delicious bite-sized treats.
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Pumpkin Spice Latte: The cozy, aromatic cinnamon and pumpkin flavors perfectly complement the tart cherry sauce, creating a warming, seasonal beverage option.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These sweet, juicy bites provide a contrast to the cake’s tartness and add an elegant touch to your spooky spread.
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Caramel Corn: The crunchy sweetness of caramel corn complements the moist cake, adding a delightful textural contrast that keeps guests coming back for more.
A little indulgence goes a long way. These pairings enhance the excitement of your Vampire Poke Cake while providing a festive atmosphere that’s sure to impress!
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Candy Corn Medley: Mix various colors of candy corn for a sweet treat that echoes the Halloween theme, adding vibrant color to your dessert table.
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Ginger Snap Cookies: Their spicy warmth harmonizes with the cake’s rich almond flavor, creating a comforting combination that feels festive and cozy.
Expert Tips for Vampire Poke Cake
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Cool the Sauce: Always let the cherry sauce cool completely before pouring it over the cake. This prevents it from sinking too much into the cake.
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Gentle Mixing: Mix the batter gently! Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, airy texture we love in a Vampire Poke Cake.
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Check for Doneness: Bake until a toothpick comes out clean; different oven temperatures can lead to variations in baking time, so keep an eye on it!
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Poking Technique: Use a wooden spoon handle to poke holes every 1-2 inches for even sauce distribution, ensuring each slice has the perfect balance of cherry flavor.
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Chill for Whipped Cream: For a fluffier whipped topping, chill your mixing bowl and whisk prior to beating the heavy cream. This helps achieve perfect soft peaks.
Make Ahead Options
These Vampire Poke Cake preparations make your Halloween festivities even easier! You can prepare the cherry sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply refrigerate it in an airtight container once cooled to keep its vibrant flavor. For the cake batter, whip it up 24 hours ahead and store in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap, ensuring a moist, fluffy cake when baked. When you’re ready to serve, bake the batter as directed and let it cool before poking holes and adding the cherry sauce. Top with freshly whipped cream for that light, airy finish, guaranteeing a dessert that’s just as delicious as when freshly made!
Vampire Poke Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best cherries for the cherry sauce?
Absolutely! When choosing cherries, look for ones that are firm and glossy with a deep red color. Avoid cherries with dark spots all over, as those indicate overripeness. Fresh cherries will give your sauce a vibrant flavor, but if fresh aren’t available, frozen cherries can work just fine too. Just remember to thaw and drain them before use for the best results.
What is the best way to store leftover Vampire Poke Cake?
Great question! You can keep any leftover cake covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for about 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just ensure it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out; nobody wants a dry cake!
Can I freeze Vampire Poke Cake, and how should I do that?
Yes, you can! To freeze the Vampire Poke Cake, first, let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight. Avoid freezing the whipped cream topping; add that fresh just before serving!
What should I do if my cake comes out dense instead of fluffy?
Very! If your cake turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or not enough leavening agents. Make sure to gently mix the wet and dry ingredients just until combined. Also, be sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for optimal rising. If in doubt, check your leavening agents’ expiration date!
Are there any dietary considerations to keep in mind with this recipe?
Indeed! For anyone with allergies, keep in mind that this recipe contains dairy and gluten. You can make a dairy-free version by using coconut cream for the topping and plant-based butter in the cake. If someone is gluten-sensitive, opt for a gluten-free flour mix instead. Always double-check specific ingredient labels to ensure they meet dietary needs.
How long does the whipped cream topping last once added to the cake?
The whipped cream is best enjoyed fresh, as it may start to lose its texture the longer it sits. Ideally, add the whipped cream right before serving. If it must sit on the cake, it can last up to 1 day in the fridge, but it may not retain that delightful fluffiness. If you anticipate leftovers, consider serving the whipped cream on the side instead!
Hauntingly Delicious Vampire Poke Cake for Halloween Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, combine 1 lb. of cherries, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, 2 Tbsp. cornstarch, and 1/4 tsp. salt. Cook over medium heat until thickened, then let it cool completely.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats up, prepare a 13x9-inch baking pan with cooking spray to ensure easy removal later.
- In a large bowl, whisk together 3 cups of flour, 2 tsp. baking powder, 1/2 tsp. baking soda, and 1/2 tsp. salt. In another bowl, cream 3/4 cup of unsalted butter with 1 cup of sugar until light and fluffy. Add in 3 large eggs, 2 tsp. almond extract, and 1 3/4 cups buttermilk, mixing until smooth.
- Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake fluffy.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean.
- Once the cake has cooled, use a wooden spoon handle to poke holes all over the surface. Gently pour the cooled cherry sauce over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes for maximum flavor.
- In a mixing bowl, beat 1 1/2 cups heavy cream with 3 Tbsp. powdered sugar and 1 tsp. vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream over the cake for a fluffy topping.