There’s something irresistible about a dessert that’s creamy, juicy, flavorful, and just the right kind of sweet. That’s exactly what you’ll find in this coconut poke cake recipe—a soft, moist, and decadently creamy cake that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned dessert pro, this recipe is wonderfully simple and incredibly rewarding. One bite and you’ll see why coconut lovers everywhere are swooning over it!
Here’s a fun fact: Poke cakes were wildly popular in the 1970s, when Jell-O first made them a household name by encouraging home bakers to “poke” holes in cakes and pour in gelatin. Over the years, creative variations of poke cakes have emerged, and this coconut version is one of the most beloved.
Why is this cake so special? It takes just a few minutes of active prep time, uses affordable and accessible ingredients, and is a guaranteed hit at any party, potluck, or family dinner. Plus, it’s a make-ahead dessert that tastes even better the next day—talk about convenience!
If you’ve tried our fan-favorite Lemon Cream Cake, you’ll appreciate how this recipe balances simplicity with amazing flavor. Ready to dive into creamy coconut bliss? Let’s get baking!
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What is Coconut Poke Cake?
So, what exactly is a coconut poke cake? Is it cake with coconut? Is it cake that got poked for misbehaving? Well, kind of. But really, it’s a soft, fluffy cake (usually white or yellow) that’s been “poked” with holes and drenched in a rich, coconut-infused filling.
The idea is simple: you bake the cake, poke it all over with a skewer or the end of a spoon, and then pour a delicious mixture—like sweetened condensed milk and coconut cream—over the top. The liquid seeps into the holes, making every bite extra moist and flavorful. Then you top it with whipped cream and shredded coconut. Pure dessert magic!
They say the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Well, poke this into your recipe rotation, and you’ll win hearts left and right. Go ahead—gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and prepare for love at first bite.
Why You’ll Love This Coconut Poke Cake Recipe
If you’ve never made a poke cake before, this is your perfect starting point. Here’s why this coconut poke cake recipe deserves a spot in your dessert lineup:
1. Irresistibly Moist and Creamy
The main highlight of this recipe is its incredible texture. The creamy coconut mixture soaks into every nook and cranny of the cake, giving it a tender, melt-in-your-mouth bite every time. It’s like tres leches cake meets coconut cream pie—and we are here for it!
2. Budget-Friendly Ingredients
Making this dessert at home saves you serious money compared to bakery prices. All of the ingredients are affordable and easy to find at your local grocery store. Plus, you’ll likely have most of them on hand already. No fancy equipment, no expensive coconut imports—just down-home deliciousness.
3. Flavorful and Customizable Toppings
The whipped cream and shredded coconut topping is light, fluffy, and full of texture. You can also get creative by adding toasted coconut flakes, chopped macadamia nuts, crushed pineapple, or even a drizzle of chocolate or caramel. Want a tropical vibe? Add a few maraschino cherries or pineapple slices.
Just like our Strawberry Shortcake Lasagna, this dessert is easily adaptable to your tastes and preferences. Give it your signature twist and make it uniquely yours.
Ready to impress your guests—and yourself? Let’s walk through the process!
How to Make Coconut Poke Cake Recipe
Quick Overview
This cake is as easy as 1-2-3… or rather, 1-2-3-4-5! With just five easy steps, this coconut poke cake recipe becomes a showstopper dessert. Here’s what makes it special:
- Simple and fast (just 15 minutes of prep!)
- Luscious coconut filling that soaks in beautifully
- Light, whipped topping for the perfect finish
The total time, including chilling, is about 3–4 hours, but most of that is passive. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dessert for busy schedules!
Key Ingredients for Coconut Poke Cake Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients listed on the box: usually eggs, oil, and water)
- 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk
- 1 can (15 oz) cream of coconut (like Coco Lopez)
- 1 tub (8 oz) whipped topping, thawed
- 1 to 1½ cups sweetened shredded coconut
- Optional: 1 tsp vanilla extract, pinch of salt, or ½ cup crushed pineapple
Pro Tip: Make sure you don’t substitute coconut milk for cream of coconut—they’re not the same! Cream of coconut is much thicker and sweeter.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Prepare the white cake mix according to the package instructions.
- Pour into the pan and bake until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (about 25–30 minutes).
Step 2: Poke the Cake
- Let the cake cool for 10–15 minutes.
- Using the end of a wooden spoon, skewer, or straw, poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart.
Step 3: Add the Coconut Filling
- In a bowl, mix the sweetened condensed milk and cream of coconut.
- Slowly pour the mixture over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
- Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
Step 4: Frost and Decorate
- Once the cake is fully chilled, spread the whipped topping evenly over the surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded coconut on top.
- Optional: Add garnishes like toasted coconut, pineapple, or maraschino cherries.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
- Slice into squares.
- Serve chilled and enjoy the creamy coconut magic in every bite!
What to Serve Coconut Poke Cake With
Looking to round out your dessert table? Here are some pairings to make your coconut poke cake part of a stunning spread:
- Tropical Fruit Salad – Fresh mango, pineapple, and kiwi add brightness.
- Iced Coffee or Cold Brew – Balances the sweetness beautifully.
- Grilled Pineapple – A fun summer BBQ pairing.
- Mint Lemonade – Refreshing and zesty.
For a tropical-themed party, pair it with coconut shrimp, grilled chicken skewers, or a colorful rice pilaf. This cake is incredibly versatile and fits any occasion, from birthdays to baby showers Coconut Poke Cake Recipe.
Top Tips for Perfecting Coconut Poke Cake Recipe
Here are expert tips to make sure your coconut poke cake is flawless every time:
Use Full-Fat Cream of Coconut Coconut Poke Cake Recipe
Low-fat or light coconut cream won’t give the same rich texture. Brands like Coco Lopez or Goya work great.
Cool the Cake Slightly Before Poking
Poking too early can cause the cake to fall apart. Wait at least 10–15 minutes after baking.
Don’t Overpoke
Too many holes can make the cake soggy. Keep them about 1 inch apart.
Chill Overnight for Best Results
The longer the filling has to soak in, the more flavorful the cake becomes.
Toast the Coconut for Extra Texture
Toasting the coconut adds a nutty crunch and rich flavor. Bake shredded coconut on a sheet at 325°F for 5–7 minutes Coconut Poke Cake Recipe.
Want to Make it from Scratch?
Skip the box mix and make a homemade white or vanilla cake base for an extra-special touch.
Storing and Reheating Tips
This cake is just as good (if not better) the next day. Here’s how to store and serve it:
Storing:
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container.
- Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Freezing:
- Freeze the cake (without whipped topping) for up to 3 months.
- Wrap individual slices tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating:
- This cake is best served cold, but if you want to warm it slightly:
- Let it sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving.
- Do NOT microwave, as it will melt the topping and change the texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving a dessert that’s simple to make yet packed with flavor, this coconut poke cake recipe will blow you away. It’s a dreamy mix of moist cake, creamy coconut, and fluffy whipped topping—each bite a small celebration.
Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any weeknight treat, this cake never fails to impress. And the best part? It gets better the longer it sits in the fridge. That means you can make it ahead, save leftovers, or double the batch without worry.
So go on—grab your mixing bowl, cue up your favorite playlist, and get ready to make one of the easiest and most delicious desserts you’ll ever try.
Your taste buds will thank you!
Ready to bake? Let us know how your coconut poke cake turned out in the comments below! And don’t forget to share your masterpiece with us on social media. #CoconutPokeCakeLove