Why Is Poke Cake Soggy?

❌ Problem: The cake turned out too wet and mushy. ✅ Solution: Too many holes? Stick to 30-40 evenly spaced holes , about 1 inch apart . Too much liquid? Only pour enough gelatin mixture to fill the holes , not drench the whole cake. Didn’t chill long enough? Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the gelatin to set. ✔ Tip: If your poke cake is too soggy, place it in the fridge uncovered for 30 minutes to let excess moisture evaporate.

How to Make an Orange Crush Cake?

To make a classic Orange Crush Cake , follow these steps: Bake a cake using Orange Crush soda – Use a boxed orange cake mix or make a homemade version (see Part 6). Poke holes all over the cake – Use a wooden spoon handle for best results. Prepare orange gelatin – Mix boiling water and Orange Crush soda with the gelatin. Pour the gelatin over the cake – Let it seep into the holes evenly. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours – This helps the cake absorb the flavors. Top with whipped topping and pudding mix – Spread it evenly for a light, creamy finish. Garnish with orange zest or mandarin slices – For extra citrusy goodness. ✔ Tip: Want a stronger orange flavor? Add 1 teaspoon of orange extract to the cake batter!

How Many Holes Should You Poke in a Poke Cake?

The ideal number of holes for a moist but not soggy poke cake is 30-40 holes , evenly spaced about 1 inch apart . ✔ Use these tools for the best results: A wooden spoon handle – Creates the perfect-sized holes. A skewer or chopstick – For smaller, more delicate holes. A fork – Works well if you prefer finer gelatin absorption.

Why Is It Called Depression Cake?

Though Orange Crush Poke Cake is not a Depression Cake , many people associate it with simple, budget-friendly desserts. Depression Cake (also called "Wacky Cake") dates back to the Great Depression (1930s) when ingredients like eggs, butter, and milk were scarce. Instead of these ingredients, bakers used vinegar and baking soda to make cakes rise.

Orange Crush Poke Cake Recipe – 5 Easy Steps for a Moist & Flavorful Dessert!

Description

Orange Crush Poke Cake is a moist, citrus-infused dessert made with orange soda, gelatin, and a creamy whipped topping. This easy-to-make cake is perfect for any occasion, bringing a burst of bright orange flavor to every bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cake:

1 box orange cake mix
1 cup Orange Crush soda
½ cup vegetable oil
3 large eggs

For the Filling:

1 box (3 oz) orange gelatin
1 cup boiling water
½ cup cold Orange Crush soda

For the Topping:

1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping (Cool Whip)
1 small box (3.4 oz) vanilla or cheesecake-flavored instant pudding mix
1 cup cold milk
Optional: orange zest, mandarin orange slices for garnish

Instructions

1. Bake the Cake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a large bowl, mix the cake mix, Orange Crush soda, vegetable oil, and eggs until smooth.
Pour into the baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool for 15 minutes before the next step.

2. Poke and Fill the Cake

Use the handle of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
In a bowl, dissolve orange gelatin in boiling water, then stir in cold Orange Crush soda.
Pour the mixture evenly over the cake, making sure it seeps into the holes.
Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to let the flavors soak in.

3. Prepare the Topping

In a bowl, whisk the pudding mix with cold milk until thickened (about 2 minutes).
Gently fold in the whipped topping until smooth.
Spread the topping evenly over the chilled cake.

4. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with orange zest or mandarin orange slices for extra flavor.
Slice and serve chilled for the best taste.

Notes

Chilling is Key: For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours, but overnight chilling enhances the taste even more.
Don’t Overpour the Gelatin: Only pour enough to fill the holes—too much can make the cake soggy.
Use a Wooden Spoon Handle for Poking Holes: This creates evenly sized holes for the filling to absorb properly.
Want More Orange Flavor? Add 1 teaspoon of orange extract to the cake batter or sprinkle extra orange zest on top.
Storage Tips: Keep leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking & Chilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (based on 12 servings per cake)
Calories: 290 kcal
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 270mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 3g
Cholesterol: 35mg

Keywords: Orange Crush Poke Cake