As the Halloween season approaches, I find myself dreaming of spooky delights that mix flavor with a hint of fun. Enter the Vampire Poke Cake—an eye-catching treat that will make your guests shriek with joy rather than fright! Imagine a moist, rich almond buttermilk cake soaked in a tangy tart cherry sauce that resembles “blood,” topped with a fluffy cloud of whipped cream. This cake isn’t just about its playful appearance; it’s about delivering mouthwatering flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween bash or simply want to indulge in a festive dessert with your family, this cake is the perfect centerpiece. Get ready to engage your senses and wow your friends with a cake that’s equal parts delicious and delightful!
Why is Vampire Poke Cake irresistible?
Uniqueness: The Vampire Poke Cake combines the playful spirit of Halloween with a deliciously rich almond buttermilk cake soaked in a tangy cherry sauce that looks like “blood.”
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can create this stunning centerpiece for their Halloween festivities.
Flavor Explosion: The harmonious blend of tart cherries and creamy whipped topping will leave your taste buds dancing.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for parties, this cake will be the star of your dessert table, drawing guests in with its striking appearance.
Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap the cherry sauce or add festive candies for a personal touch! Don’t forget to check out my other Halloween treats for more delightful ideas.
Vampire Poke Cake Ingredients
• Dive into the flavors of Halloween with this deliciously spooky treat!
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For the Cherry Sauce
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Fresh or Frozen Cherries – Adds a tart and fruity flavor; substitute with raspberry or strawberry for a different fruit profile.
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Granulated Sugar (100 g) – Sweetens the cherry sauce; use coconut sugar for a deeper flavor.
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Water – Helps create the cherry sauce; could be substituted with cherry juice for added flavor.
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Cornstarch – Thickens the cherry sauce; use arrowroot powder for a gluten-free option.
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Kosher Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances the flavor of the sauce; reduce for lower sodium.
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For the Cake
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Cooking Spray – Aids in greasing the pan; use butter for a richer flavor.
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All-Purpose Flour (360 g) – Main structure of the cake; substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
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Baking Powder (2 tsp) – Ensures the cake rises; must be fresh for best results.
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Baking Soda (1/2 tsp) – Adds additional lift.
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Kosher Salt (1/2 tsp) – Balances sweetness in the cake mix.
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Granulated Sugar (200 g) – Sweetens the cake; coconut sugar is an alternative.
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Unsalted Butter (1 1/2 sticks, softened) – Provides moisture and flavor; use margarine for a dairy-free variant.
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Large Eggs (3, room temperature) – Acts as a binder; flax eggs can be used for a vegan option.
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Almond Extract (2 tsp) – Enhances cake flavor; vanilla extract can be used instead.
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Buttermilk (1 3/4 cups, room temperature, divided) – Imparts tender texture; use yogurt or milk mixed with lemon juice as a substitute.
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For the Whipped Topping
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Heavy Cream (1 1/2 cups) – For whipped topping; use coconut cream for a non-dairy alternative.
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Powdered Sugar (3 Tbsp) – Sweetens the whipped cream; reduce for less sweetness.
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Pure Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor.
Embrace the spirit of Halloween and impress your guests with this delightful Vampire Poke Cake that’s guaranteed to be the highlight of your celebration!
How to Make Vampire Poke Cake
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Prepare Cherry Sauce: In a saucepan, combine fresh or frozen cherries, 100 g of granulated sugar, water, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook over medium heat until thickened, then cool completely.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it preheats, prepare a 13×9-inch baking pan by greasing it with cooking spray.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 360 g of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt until well combined.
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Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together 1 1/2 sticks of softened unsalted butter and 200 g of granulated sugar until it’s light and fluffy in texture.
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Add Eggs and Extracts: Incorporate 3 large eggs, one at a time, into the butter mixture. Add 2 teaspoons of almond extract and mix until everything is well combined.
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Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour mixture and 1 3/4 cups of room temperature buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined and smooth.
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Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Poke Holes and Fill: Once the cake has cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the top. Pour the cooled cherry sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak in for added flavor.
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Whip Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream, 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream generously on top of the cake.
Optional: Garnish with chocolate spiders or gummy bats for extra Halloween fun!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Vampire Poke Cake components are perfect for busy cooks looking to save time while still delivering deliciousness! You can prepare the cherry sauce up to 24 hours in advance; just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its vibrant flavor. Additionally, you can bake the almond buttermilk cake up to 3 days ahead—simply let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, poke holes in the chilled cake and pour the cool cherry sauce over, allowing it to soak in. Finally, whip the cream just before serving for that fluffy topping that will make this cake just as delightful as if it were freshly made!
Storage Tips for Vampire Poke Cake
- Room Temperature: The cake can be left out for a few hours if served at room temperature. However, any leftovers should be stored in the fridge.
- Fridge: Store the Vampire Poke Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain moisture while preventing it from absorbing other smells.
- Freezer: If you need to keep the cake longer, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag.
- Reheating: To serve, thaw frozen slices in the fridge overnight. You can warm them slightly in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy, just-baked experience.
Vampire Poke Cake Variations
Feel free to personalize the recipe with these delightful twists that will excite your taste buds!
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Berry Swap: Replace the tart cherry sauce with raspberry or strawberry sauce for a fruity flair. This will create a vibrant splash of color on your cake!
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Chocolate Drizzle: Add a silky chocolate ganache on top for a rich contrast to the tangy cherry sauce. The combination of flavors will make your dessert even more irresistible.
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Festive Decorations: Top the cake with Halloween candies like gummy worms or chocolate spiders to give it a fun and festive look. It will surely be a hit with the kids!
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Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped almonds or pecans into the cake batter for a delightful crunch. This adds a lovely texture and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the cherry.
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Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cake batter or cherry sauce for warm, cozy spices. These flavors evoke the spirit of fall and will enhance the overall flavor profile.
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Citrus Zing: Add some lemon or orange zest to the cake batter for a refreshing burst of flavor. The citrus notes will brighten the richness of the almond buttermilk cake.
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Non-Dairy Delight: Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream in the whipped topping to create a dairy-free version. Your vegan friends will appreciate this thoughtful twist!
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Almond Free: If you’re allergic to almonds, use vanilla extract instead. The flavor will be slightly different but still deliciously sweet!
These variations are here to inspire your creativity and add a personal touch to your festive celebrations! Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Vampire Poke Cake?
Imagine a Halloween gathering where every bite, smell, and sight weaves a perfect story of seasonal delight. The Vampire Poke Cake will undoubtedly steal the show, but complementing it with the right dishes will create an unforgettable experience!
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Mummy Hot Dogs: These playful and easy-to-make treats are wrapped in crescent dough, offering a crispy exterior that pairs perfectly with the cake’s sweetness.
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Witch’s Brew Soup: A warm, creamy soup featuring seasonal veggies adds a contrasting savory note that beautifully balances the sweet flavors of the cake.
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Goblin Green Salad: A fresh salad with spinach, avocado, and detoxifying nuts brings brightness to the table, refreshing the palate before indulging in dessert.
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Eyeball Cheese Balls: Fun and festive, these savory bites will keep the mood light and add contrast to the sweet poke cake—just a hint of savory fun for your guests!
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Frankenstein Fizz: Serve a vibrant green punch made with lime sherbet and lemon-lime soda to provide a fizzy, refreshing pairing for your spooky dessert.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: These delightful treats resemble spooky eyeballs and are an elegant yet fun way to add a touch of indulgence alongside the cake.
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Monster Marshmallow Treats: Sweet and chewy, use Rice Krispies and colorful marshmallows to create these fun shapes—perfect for rounding out your Halloween feast.
Pair any of these festive dishes with the Vampire Poke Cake for a Halloween party that is both fun and unforgettable!
Expert Tips for Perfecting Vampire Poke Cake
- Cool the Sauce First: Ensure the cherry sauce is completely cooled before pouring it over the cake to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Homemade Flavor: For an intensely delightful taste, make your cherry sauce from scratch instead of using store-bought jam.
- Even Mixing: Be sure to mix your dry and wet ingredients gradually for a uniform batter, helping ensure your Vampire Poke Cake rises beautifully.
- Fresh Ingredients: Check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best results; expired leavening agents can lead to a dense cake.
- Chill the Whipped Cream: For better stability, chill your mixing bowl and beaters before whipping the cream.
Vampire Poke Cake Recipe FAQs
What type of cherries should I use for the cherry sauce?
Absolutely! Fresh cherries give the best flavor, but you can also use frozen cherries if that’s what you have on hand. Just remember to thaw them before cooking to achieve that lovely tartness in the sauce. If you want something different, try swapping them for raspberries or strawberries!
How should I store leftover Vampire Poke Cake?
The best way to keep your Vampire Poke Cake fresh is to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method retains its moisture and prevents it from absorbing any other odors in the fridge. If you leave it at room temperature, it’s best consumed within a few hours of serving.
Can I freeze the Vampire Poke Cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, follow these steps: 1) Allow the cake to cool completely. 2) Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. 3) Place the wrapped slices in a freezer bag or airtight container. Enjoy them frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
What can I do if my cake comes out dense?
Very! If your Vampire Poke Cake is dense, it’s often due to overmixing the batter or using expired baking powder and baking soda. To prevent this, combine the wet and dry ingredients just until they’re mixed; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Always check the expiration dates on your leavening agents to ensure they’re fresh!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Absolutely! If you’re accommodating dietary restrictions, keep in mind that you can make this cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free options, swap out the butter for margarine and use coconut cream for the whipped topping. Additionally, if you’re dealing with egg allergies, flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) work well as a substitute.
Vampire Poke Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Cherry Sauce: In a saucepan, combine fresh or frozen cherries, 100 g of granulated sugar, water, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook over medium heat until thickened, then cool completely.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it preheats, prepare a 13x9-inch baking pan by greasing it with cooking spray.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 360 g of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt until well combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream together 1 1/2 sticks of softened unsalted butter and 200 g of granulated sugar until it's light and fluffy in texture.
- Add Eggs and Extracts: Incorporate 3 large eggs, one at a time, into the butter mixture. Add 2 teaspoons of almond extract and mix until everything is well combined.
- Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually mix in the flour mixture and 1 3/4 cups of room temperature buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined and smooth.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Poke Holes and Fill: Once the cake has cooled, use a fork to poke holes all over the top. Pour the cooled cherry sauce over the cake, allowing it to soak in for added flavor.
- Whip Cream: In a mixing bowl, beat together 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream, 3 tablespoons of powdered sugar, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread the whipped cream generously on top of the cake.