Description
This delightful Cotton Candy Poke Cake combines the classic moistness of a white cake with the whimsical sweetness of cotton candy-flavored gelatin. Perfect for parties and celebrations, this colorful dessert features a vibrant whipped topping swirl and an optional cotton candy garnish that makes every slice a fun and festive treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Cake:
- 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box such as egg whites, water, and oil)
Gelatin Soak:
- 1 packet cotton candy-flavored gelatin (3 oz)
- 1 cup boiling water
- ½ cup cold water
Topping:
- 1 tub whipped topping (8 oz, thawed)
- Pink food coloring (optional)
- Blue food coloring (optional)
- Cotton candy for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix and Bake Cake: Prepare the white cake according to the package instructions using the recommended ingredients (egg whites, water, oil). Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake as directed, about 30 minutes.
- Cool Cake and Poke Holes: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Using the handle of a wooden spoon, poke holes all over the cake surface spaced about 1 inch apart. This will help the gelatin soak into the cake.
- Dissolve Gelatin: In a bowl, dissolve the cotton candy-flavored gelatin into 1 cup of boiling water, stirring until fully dissolved. Add ½ cup cold water and mix thoroughly.
- Pour Gelatin Over Cake: Evenly pour the gelatin mixture over the cake, allowing it to soak deep into the holes for maximum flavor and moistness.
- Chill the Cake: Refrigerate the cake for at least 2 hours to ensure the gelatin fully sets and infuses into the cake.
- Prepare Whipped Topping: Once the cake is chilled, divide the whipped topping into two bowls. Add pink food coloring to one bowl and blue food coloring to the other. Gently swirl the two colors together without fully mixing for a fun visual effect.
- Frost Cake: Spread the swirled whipped topping evenly over the chilled cake, covering it completely.
- Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, optionally garnish the cake with cotton candy for an extra whimsical touch. Slice and enjoy!
Notes
- Cotton candy-flavored gelatin is often seasonal; raspberry or bubblegum gelatin are good substitutes if unavailable.
- Add colorful sprinkles under or on top of the whipped topping for extra flair.
- Garnish with cotton candy only immediately before serving to avoid it melting or becoming sticky.
