Coconut Dream Poke Cake

Yields: 12 servings Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30-35 minutes (for cake) + chilling time

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients called for on the box)
• 1 (13.5 oz) can coconut milk
• 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional, for topping)

For the Filling:

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed
• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant coconut cream pudding mix
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries (if using frozen, thaw and drain)

Equipment:

• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Mixing bowls
• Wooden spoon or whisk
• Long wooden skewer or fork

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:
   • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
   • Prepare the cake mix according to package directions, substituting the water called for with the coconut milk.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan.
2. Poke Holes:
   • Using the handle of a wooden spoon or a long skewer, poke holes all over the surface of the cake, about 1 inch apart.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk and instant pudding mix until well combined.
   • Gently fold in the whipped topping and 1 cup of shredded coconut.
4. Fill the Holes:
   • Pour the pudding mixture evenly over the cake, allowing it to seep into the holes.
   • Spread the mixture to cover the entire surface of the cake.
5. Add Raspberries:
   • Sprinkle the raspberries evenly over the pudding layer.
6. Chill:
   • Cover the cake and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the filling to set.
7. Garnish (Optional):
   • Before serving, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded coconut over the top of the cake.
8. Serve:
   • Cut into squares and enjoy your Coconut Dream Poke Cake!

Tips and Variations:

• For a stronger coconut flavor, you can add coconut extract to the cake batter or filling.
• You can use other berries, such as strawberries or blueberries, instead of raspberries.
• For a richer flavor, toast the shredded coconut before using it as a topping.
• If you don’t have coconut milk you can use regular milk, but the coconut flavor will not be as strong.

Enjoy your delicious Coconut Dream Poke Cake!